“The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst
Whether you are a preschool or elementary school teacher, a parent, or a bereavement counsellor “The Invisible String” is a heartwarming book for adults who are supporting the wellbeing of children. Often, children will endure separation, grief and loss of someone or something of importance. A daily event such as bedtime or school drop off can be triggering and isolating for children. The significance of a child’s loss and separation varies in each situation but all are equally important. Patrice Karst uses the metaphor of the invisible string to represent the constant but invisible connection between those significant individuals even when we can’t be with them or can’t see them as a way to comfort us during times of separation or loss.
“The Invisible String” was recommended to me by my counselling team when I was helping transition children from their foster homes into adoptive homes. I would use this book with children and their caregivers to foster the idea that a child will always be connected by the invisible string to the significant people in their foster home as well as to their birth family and significant others even though they may no longer be living together or seeing them as regularly. Patrice Karst uses the idea of an invisible string which is able to keep our hearts connected to all those who have had an impact on our lives. Whether the child is navigating their parents’ divorce, has a best friend that has moved away, or perhaps has lost a grandparent or even their household pet – this book helps children to find comfort in remembering that they are always connected to those significant people by an invisible string to their heart.
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