"Dad Time – But Different!" – that's the title of the new book for children of incarcerated individuals. "Children, in particular, suffer when a family member is imprisoned. The book originated as a project of the father-child course at the Bremen Correctional Facility. It aims to alleviate children's anxieties and explain what imprisonment can mean for the families of inmates," explains Senator of Justice Claudia Schilling.
Ten prisoners each wrote a chapter, explaining step by step what happens: from "Dad is picked up by the police" to the court hearing and daily life in prison, culminating in "Dad is transferred to open prison" and "Dad is released." The illustrations featuring the penguin mascot Pico were drawn by a prisoner before being professionally edited. The book is given free of charge to the children of inmates. The first edition consists of 500 copies. The project partner was the association Hoppenbank e.V., which also runs the new state coordination office for "Children of Inmates" in Bremen and is part of the nationwide KvI network.
“Working on the book with the participants of the father-child course was an exciting change from the daily routine of prison life. Each prisoner contributed a chapter and perhaps also engaged in a bit of self-therapy. In the end, a truly beautifully designed book emerged, of which the authors and the illustrator – also an incarcerated father – can be justifiably very proud,” said Kim Schlangen, the family liaison officer of the Bremen correctional facility.
Providing more support for children and families of prisoners
“It is very important to me that we provide stronger support and reach out to the children and families of prisoners,” said the Senator for Justice. “For inmates, the book can be a starting point for speaking honestly and in simple terms with their children about their mistakes and their imprisonment. It also shows families very practical ways to get support. With this, we are sending an important message: You are not alone; help is available in this difficult situation. The initial feedback we have received from the prison has been extremely positive,” Schilling explained.
Besides the colorful illustrations featuring the mascot Pico, the language of the book is also perfectly suited for children. The blurb offers a glimpse into the story: "Mira and Leo are completely bewildered. Their dad is taken away by the police. Only much later do they learn that he has committed a crime and has to go to prison. The two children are devastated and worried sick about him. Over time, their dad is able to ease their fears. Mira and Leo discover that there are many other children whose fathers are in prison. And in the end, they are able to embrace their dad again at home. Join Mira and Leo as they navigate this difficult time in their lives and learn a great deal about daily life in prison. And then there's Pico... He's always there for them."
Source: “Daddy Time – Only Different!” – New book for children of inmates – Senate Press Office
