Cleo the Crocodile's New Home: A Story to Help Kids After Trauma

Cleo the Crocodile is scared to leave the swamp after being hurt by Hogan the Hippo. He has to find a new home and learn to let others in to keep safe. This story helps children aged 5-10 who have experienced trauma to understand their feelings and start conversations around hurt, anger, and trust.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2021
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers

Amidst the breathtaking Okavango Delta in Botswana, Cleo, the playful crocodile, reveled in the company of his beloved animal companions. However, a turning point arrived when Hogan, the supposed guardian of Cleo, began to exhibit cruel behavior, causing harm to the innocent creature. Faced with the imminent threat of danger, Cleo knew he had to embark on a perilous journey to find a new sanctuary, a place where he could feel safe and secure.

Traumatized and fearful, Cleo resorted to defensive measures to protect himself from further harm. He snapped and snarled, using his powerful presence to keep other animals at a distance, ensuring that they could not inflict the same pain he had experienced at the hands of Hogan.

But as time passed, Cleo realized that his isolation was not a solution. He yearned for companionship and the opportunity to build new relationships. Determined to find a way forward, Cleo embarked on a quest to discover a new safe home, a place where he could trust and be trusted.

The journey was fraught with challenges and obstacles. Cleo faced his fears and insecurities, questioning whether he would ever find a place where he belonged. But with unwavering determination, he pushed forward, relying on his instincts and the support of his animal friends.

Through his trials, Cleo learned the importance of vulnerability and trust. He realized that by opening up to others, he could build meaningful connections and form a community of support. He began to let down his guard, allowing himself to be seen and heard in a way that he had never experienced before.

As Cleo continued his search for a new home, he encountered various creatures who were also in search of safety and companionship. He shared his story with them, offering hope and encouragement. Through his resilience and empathy, he inspired others to believe in the power of forgiveness and second chances.

Finally, after months of wandering, Cleo stumbled upon a hidden oasis. It was a place of peace and tranquility, where animals of all kinds lived in harmony. Cleo felt a sense of belonging and joy that he had never experienced before. He knew that he had found his new home, a place where he could truly thrive and be himself.

In this story, we explore the themes of trauma, resilience, and the power of connection. It is written to help children aged 5-10 who have experienced trauma to begin conversations around big feelings around hurt, anger, and trust.

Dr. Treisman's Big Feelings Stories are designed to assist kids in understanding and managing their emotions. If you enjoy this book, we encourage you to explore Dr. Treisman's Activity Books series. Cleo the Crocodile Activity Book for Children Who Are Afraid to Get Close features the same story and provides additional guidance for adults, along with a wealth of creative expansion activities and worksheets.

By reading and engaging with these stories, children can develop the skills they need to navigate difficult emotions and build healthy relationships. They can learn that it is okay to feel hurt, angry, and scared, and that there are ways to cope and heal.

Through the characters of Cleo and his animal friends, children can see that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is always hope for a better future. They can learn that it is through empathy, forgiveness, and resilience that we can overcome even the most challenging circumstances and build a world that is filled with love, kindness, and understanding.

So, let us join Cleo on his journey as he searches for a new home and learns the true meaning of friendship and trust. May this story inspire children to believe in themselves, to embrace their emotions, and to build a world that is safe, nurturing, and filled with endless possibilities.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 210 x 298 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839970276
Edition number: Illustrated ed