By Jamie Salter
Berwick resident and paediatric psychologist Michelle Macpherson has launched her first fiction book for children – A global pandemic won’t change me!
Michelle has spent 20 years working as a paediatric psychologist and has owned and operated Beaconsfield’s paediatric practice Learning Curve Psychology for 15 years.
In this time, she has worked with schools and families to help children navigate life’s challenges.
After witnessing the impact of Covid-19 on the next generation, Michelle realised the best way to help children move past the pandemic was to write a children’s book that would entertain and empower them.
Michelle said there was an enormous amount of pressure on families throughout the pandemic.
“I observed a real shift in terms of what was going on with the climate of Covid-19 with intermittent attendance at school causing high anxiety and a lot of fear,“ she said.
“I felt there was a need to create a way to communicate hope and that there’s more than what’s just currently in front of us.
“Kids are like sponges and they soak everything in, even a conversation between parents or the news, and I’m very aware of the power and influence of literature in influencing a young person’s psyche.“
Michelle’s book tells the story of Emily, a spirited young girl who embarks on a journey of self-discovery amidst a time of change and challenge.
As a first-time author, ideas for the book came to Michelle as she juggled her career and kids of her own.
“I actually just found myself really enjoying the creative aspect and let it come to me,“ she said.
“I found myself coming up with ideas while doing the washing or going for a walk – I think it’s important that we don’t lose ourselves in what’s all going on.“
She said although many parents were confused by their child’s behaviour, there were simple things that could be done to minimise these issues.
“One of the things I value most about working with children is their honesty and when you take the time to truly hear what they’re communicating, they usually already have a sound awareness of what they’re experiencing and we can help them feel understood and give them and their parents direction,“ Michelle said.
She said most inappropriate behaviour was due to fear and with children now transitioning back to on-campus learning, more understanding from parents and teachers has never been more important.
“The return to school is another change and children are more fearful because they have to be tested – they won’t transition the same way they have in the past and that’s why every child needs to read this book.”
Everything experienced up until the age of eight goes into the subconscious mind and comes to the surface in adulthood, Michelle said.
“We need to flood the subconscious mind of children with positive content. They need someone there that identifies with what they’ve experiences.“
Michelle plans to visit schools to inspire and lead teachers to better understand the power of the subconscious mind.
“They’re in the trenches with kids every day and taking time to talk about how they can change a child’s life is something I’m really passionate about,“ Michelle said.
She encouraged school communities to get in touch via her website Dragonfly Global.
To purchase her book, visit dragonflyglobal.com.au/
