Zaczytaj się zdrowo! Lecznicza moc lektur dla dzieci, młodzieży i rodziców

Abstract

Bibliotherapy is an old concept in library science. “Psyches iatreion” (Healing-Place in a Soul) is a phrase that was reported to be an inscription on the sacred library of Ramses II in Thebes. Bibliotherapy is a kind of therapy that uses individual’s relationship to the content of books, poetry and storytelling. It is placed in the therapeutic environment between psychology and medicine, bibliology and pedagogics. Along with these positive outcomes, other studies have shown additional advantages of using bibliotherapy with children as early as possible. The age level of a child and what he or she needs to take from the story might determine their life. Bibliotherapy can be used for a variety of reasons to help children overcome problems or difficult situations they are facing or may face. Literature allows a reader to identify with characters and problems presented in a book and to relate them to their own lives. It helps children to develop self-concept, empathy, creativity, imagination, word building skills and knowledge. Children can create and participate in a roundtable discussion, learn to appreciate literature and become more motivated to read. Bibliotherapy can be used to help children with emotional problems (ADHD), mental or physical illnesses, dyslexia as well as skilful pupils. The books chosen should meet the following criteria: they should be appropriate for child’s reading and perception ability and the interest level should be suitable for child’s maturity.