Kids with arthritis

Carrie Britton's book, 'Kids with Arthritis - A guide for Families' is an extremely well-written and well presented self help guide for parents friends and families.

More than that, it is a deep mine of useful information and advice for anyone involved in the care and support of a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Comprehensive

Britton comprehensively explains the help and support available for children of all ages. She covers areas such as play, education and daily living in a realistic and informative manner. The way the book is constructed allows the reader to take it either as a complete, in one go, read or to dip in and out of the relevant chapters. At the end of each section is often a highlighted summary which contains the key points or tips. This enables it to be a positive workbook for parents or carers.

Real experiences

The book draws on the experiences of the children themselves and those around them. This gives a myriad of insights into how it is to live as a child with JIA and the impact on those around them. Carrie Britton leads us through all aspects of dealing with the complex challenges of this condition within a family. She does not mince her words and neither do the children or parents who speak to us through the pages.

Pain

I found the section about pain extremely helpful but also harrowing. We are invited to listen to the voices of the children and to draw our understanding from their very real experiences. Britton manages to combine the elements of compassion, honesty and empowerment within this section. Childhood pain is not an easy concept for anyone to accept but we are drawn safely into this world and given strategies for coping and helping the child.

Great cartoons

Throughout it is liberally sprinkled with charming cartoons of children and their families. Never schmaltzy, always to the point, to illustrate the issue being covered, the pictures add to the humanity of the subject. It is the finishing touch to this comprehensive guide and damn good read. I found it so compelling and enjoyable that I read it cover to cover in one sitting.'

Get your copy

Parents and families who would like a FREE copy of this book - please contact The Source freephone confidential service on 0808 808 2000 or email TheSource@arthritiscare.org.uk.

Review by Jo Cumming - Helplines Manager