Quincy It was reportedly said about Baxter Badger that he had strong emotions.
“Well, of course,” he replied. How do I respond to this?
Even though it was a significant question for a creature that typically weighed less than thirty pounds, it was nonetheless important.
In Chad the Cougar and the Forest of Feelings, the first in a series of children’s books written by Chaddock to assist families and kids in processing their emotions, the grumpy little musteloid is one of three characters brought to life.
Matt Obert, the president and CEO of Chaddock, stated, “We’re going to do a whole series of (emotions) like happy, sad, and scared.” All of them will use the knowledge we’ve gained from treating kids over the years to assist parents and educators in participating independently.
The concepts of Chaddock’s Developmental Trauma and Attachment Program, which combines the power of connections with the science of healing, are thoughtfully weaved into each lyric.
Obert stated that the main goal is to disseminate our mission.
According to its website, Chaddock is a nationally renowned organization that, since its establishment in 1853, has offered children from all across the nation a comprehensive spectrum of preventative, educational, and therapy services. From infancy to age 21, children and families experiencing the psychological, emotional, and spiritual repercussions of severe abuse, neglect, and trauma can access comprehensive programs and services in a range of settings.
A launch celebration featuring food, a puppet performance, and live music was held in Madison Park on Wednesday night to commemorate the publication of Chad the Cougar and the Forest of Feelings. Earlier in the day, local educators had the chance to pick up a complimentary book and discover more resources that the organization has to offer.
Staff members at Chaddock worked with local author Ron Kinscherf to write the book, which included input from:
- Molly Bainter
- Amanda Becks
- Mark Schlepphorst
- and Lizzie Moon.
The book’s drawings were made by Sarah Goodapple using watercolors and graphic pens. She claimed that her mother encouraged her love of art as a child and that drawing has always helped her concentrate in meetings, church, and school.
“As I’ve grown older, art has been a really great way for me to express myself and let my feelings out,” she added. Being able to use a gift and talent I had for this organization thrilled me.
After a 16-year break, Goodapple returned to the Quincy region and started working as a case worker at Chaddock four years ago. She is currently employed as a family coach.
“I knew Chaddock was where I wanted to be when I moved back,” she added.
With a betta fish named Betsy, the upcoming book will delve into the deep blue to examine grief. Goodapple has already finished the sketches and is pulling out her paintbrushes on Friday. However, Betsy’s heart belonged to another figure before her.
Simply enough, working on Baxter was enjoyable. According to Goodapple, he was furious. Will I ever be able to make him look happy? I asked myself. He’s really skilled at being angry.
Chad the Cougar is unable to comprehend Baxter’s feelings, and he finds it hard to comprehend how Baxter is unable to comprehend them either. However, as he proceeds through the Forest of Feelings, the consistently astute Olivia Owl offers him some consolation and direction.
She tells Chad to sit with him.
Baxter’s smile eventually reappears after much perseverance and a little ingenuity.
Goodapple remarked, “I think he looks really cute as a happy character in the end.”
Even though the book is primarily intended for young readers, they are by no means the only ones who occasionally struggle to manage those bothersome little feelings.
According to Obert, we also assist grownups in exploring their own emotions. The grownups gain just as much knowledge from this process, which is its beauty.
The book may now be bought online, and all sales will support Chaddock’s family and child services.
