Derry Charity ‘Happy Hooves’ Launches Children’s Book to Inspire

A Derry-based charity, Happy Hooves, is set to launch a new children’s book titled Hoofprints on the Hill on December 19, 2023. The book aims to promote positive mental health among children by featuring stories centered on themes of strength, resilience, and transformation.

Written by Karen Baldwin, an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, the book has been developed with support from primary school teacher Aisling Chada. It is beautifully illustrated by equine artist Jessica Hill, known for her emotionally resonant equine portraits. The stories draw inspiration from real-life experiences at Happy Hooves, capturing valuable lessons taught by the charity’s miniature therapy ponies and their animal companions at Windy Hill Farm.

Promoting Mental Well-Being Through Storytelling

With over three years of operation, Happy Hooves has been dedicated to supporting children and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. The narratives in Hoofprints on the Hill focus on essential aspects of mental health, addressing topics like coping with change, overcoming fears, and managing emotions.

Each story is crafted to resonate with children aged 10 to 12, ensuring they are developmentally appropriate and impactful. The book encompasses various important themes, including:

– Navigating change and transitions
– Managing worry and anxiety
– Overcoming fears
– Understanding the overthinking trap
– Embracing gratitude
– Coping with grief and loss
– Building self-esteem and self-belief
– Practicing self-acceptance and compassion
– Finding joy in everyday moments

In anticipation of the launch, Karen Baldwin expressed her excitement, stating, “What a journey this last year has been, but we have finally done it! Hoofprints on the Hill has been created! Together, we make the A Team!” She acknowledged the contributions of her collaborators, including Aisling Chada, Jessica Hill, and graphic designer Kevin Moore, who played a vital role in refining the book’s design.

Launch Event Details

The launch event for Hoofprints on the Hill will take place at the Ebrington Hotel in Derry from 17:30 to 19:15. The event is open to the public, providing an opportunity for attendees to purchase the first copies just in time for Christmas.

Filled with heart, humour, and hope, the book aims to remind readers that every emotion holds significance, every mistake presents a learning opportunity, and even the most wounded hearts can heal.

For more information about Happy Hooves and its therapeutic work, visit the organization’s Facebook page, Happy Hooves Therapeutic Riding.