Local colouring book promotes respect, empathy

Colouring books are a dime a dozen. But a colouring book with a positive message designed especially for youth on the southwest coast is much more difficult to come by.

Students from Kindergarten to Grade 3 at all four elementary schools on the southwest coast will soon be receiving a copy of "Colouring and Activities for a Peaceful World." The book was a joint project of Peaceful Communities and The Gulf News.

The book was launched at a luncheon in Port aux Basques last Monday. About 25 community representatives from across the southwest coast came out for the book launch.

Dana King, committee co-chair on the project, said The Gulf News brought the idea of the colouring book to Peaceful Communities. Mr. King said the committee thought it was a great idea because it is often difficult to promote the message of non-violence to the very young.

Peaceful Communities is a not-for-profit partnership of volunteers, community groups, schools, churches, government representatives and other concerned citizens living on the southwest coast.

The group has spearheaded past youth campaigns such as Stand-up Against Bullying Day and the Respect-Ed program for older students.

Rather than generic images, the colouring book features pictures of local schools and Marine Atlantic ferries.

"We chose images familiar to students," said Natalie Musseau, editor/manager of The Gulf News. "It will make it their book."

The books also have activities such as a search-a-word puzzle and a connect-the-dot image. Positive messages about standing up to bullies and respecting others appear throughout the 16-page book.

The books will be presented to students at Grandy's River Collegiate, LeGallais Memorial School, St. James Elementary and Belanger Memorial School.

The project was funded under the provincial government's Violence Prevention Initiative - a six-year, $12 million program.

Committee member Susanne Ingram read greetings from Kathy Dunderdale, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women during the book launch.

"Experiencing violence of any kind can have a devastating impact on a child's overall cognitive development. Unfortunately, violence against children often remains hidden out of fear, manipulation, or even shame," said Minister Dunderdale.

"Initiatives like the "Colouring and Activities for a Peaceful World" book will help children understand violence and how they can prevent it."

reporter@gulfnews.ca