“Chad the Cougar and the Forest of Feelings” to release on Aug. 6

QUINCY — Chaddock has announced the release of its first-ever children’s book, Chad the Cougar and the Forest of Feelings, launching Aug. 6. Written and illustrated by Chaddock staff, this story blends real strategies Chaddock uses with fun and engaging storytelling to help children better understand and manage big emotions.

The book follows Chad the Cougar on a journey through the Forest of Feelings. Chad meets Baxter Badger, who’s feeling really angry but isn’t quite sure why. With help from their wise friend Olivia Owl, Chad helps Baxter navigate those feelings and shows young readers how to do the same.

The book is inspired by Chaddock’s Developmental Trauma and Attachment Program (DTAP®). The strategies modeled in the story reflect real, evidence-informed practices used at Chaddock to support children who have experienced trauma and attachment disruptions, but they’re valuable tools for any child.

The book helps children understand and name their emotions, learn strategies to manage big feelings and practice compassion and peer support.

The project was brought to life by local author Ron Kinscherf in collaboration with Chaddock staff. The illustrations were hand-painted by Chaddock’s family coach, Sarah Goodapple.

To celebrate the release of this book, Chaddock will hold a special launch event for local educators on Wednesday, Aug. 6.

• Morning Session: 9 to 11:30 a.m., with a program at 10 a.m.
• Afternoon Session: 1 to 3:30 p.m., with a program at 2 p.m.

Both sessions will be held at Chaddock School, 205 S. 24th St.

At this event, the first 100 educators who attend will receive a free copy of the book. Plus, they’ll get to hear from our staff who worked on this project and learn about additional resources Chaddock offers to support schools throughout the year.

Chad the Cougar and the Forest of Feelings will be available for purchase on Amazon and other online retailers starting Aug. 6.