The Tricky Sticky Addiction Monster
#1 of 1 in The Tricky Sticky Addiction Monster Collaborative Resources Series
What’s inside...
The Tricky Sticky Addiction Monster is a beautifully illustrated book that addresses the heavy subject of addiction in a lighthearted and straightforward manner. It follows the story of a young boy named Sam, whose mom encounters the Addiction Monster. As the Monster gains a hold on her, Sam learns important lessons: the problem is addiction, not his mom; it's not his fault; and he will be okay regardless of the outcome. The book does not specify the type of addiction, making it a versatile resource for various situations. It serves as an excellent conversation starter and a helpful tool for explaining addiction to children aged 5-10 years old. It is a valuable resource for therapists, social workers, foster parents, counsellors, teachers, and anyone working with a child affected by addiction.
Discussion points
What feelings did you notice the characters had when dealing with the Addiction Monster?
Why do you think it's important to talk about struggles like the ones shown in the book?
How did the characters' choices affect their interactions with the Addiction Monster?
Can you think of a time when you faced something difficult and how you managed it?
What are some ways we can help friends who might have their own tricky situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Validate your child’s emotions, helping them understand that it's okay to feel scared or confused about topics like addiction.
Use the story's context to discuss personal experiences or hypothetical scenarios in a non-threatening way.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would handle similar situations.
Make connections between the story and real-life outcomes to help them understand the implications of choices.
Offer reassurance and support, emphasizing that difficult topics can be managed and discussed openly.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding addiction
Explanation: The book portrays addiction as a monster, making it tangible for children to grasp the concept. It shows how the monster can influence behavior and choices.
Real-World Application: Children can recognize negative patterns or behaviors in themselves or others and understand that these can be managed and overcome with help.
Example Lesson: Seeking help is essential
Explanation: Characters in the story reach out for help to combat the addiction monster, highlighting the importance of community and support systems.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of asking for assistance when facing tough situations, reinforcing that it's okay to not handle everything alone.
Example Lesson: Resilience and recovery
Explanation: The story demonstrates characters battling the monster, showing that recovery is possible with perseverance and support.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence and resilience in overcoming personal challenges and the importance of continuous effort for self-improvement.
Example Lesson: Compassion towards others
Explanation: Through character interactions, the book teaches empathy for those struggling with addictions, portraying them as individuals fighting a monster, not as inherently bad people.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be kind and understanding towards others who may be facing difficulties, fostering a more empathetic and supportive community.
Example Lesson: Importance of a support network
Explanation: The story emphasizes the role of friends and family in helping to defeat the addiction monster, showcasing that no one has to fight their battles alone.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate and foster their relationships with family and friends, knowing the importance of a support system in overcoming life’s hurdles.