A Paper Hug

A parent would reach for this book when facing a significant family separation, specifically a military deployment or a long-distance work assignment. It addresses the heavy knot of anxiety and helplessness children often feel when a caregiver must leave, offering a bridge between the 'here' and 'there.' The story follows a young boy who wants to give his departing father something more meaningful than a store-bought gift. By focusing on the creation of a 'paper hug,' the book empowers children to use art as a coping mechanism for their sadness. It normalizes the difficulty of goodbyes while emphasizing that love remains constant regardless of distance. Ideal for children ages 4 to 8, this is a gentle resource for families needing to process upcoming transitions through a lens of creativity and hope.