Orange, based mum of three and Author of May I Hug You? Oleta Blunt, is helping little ones build healthy relationships with themselves and others one picture-book at a time
Local, Orange based author and mother of three, Oleta Blunt, is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of her first children’s picture book, May I Hug You? This delightful tale not only captivates young minds with endearing characters and colourful illustrations by Katherine Appleby, but also imparts essential lessons on respect, consent, and empathy.
Drawing from her own experiences as a mother and survivor of childhood and early adulthood sexual abuse, Oleta Blunt recognises the critical need to gently introduce themes of asking permission, adapting to new situations, and making others feel safe at an early age. May I Hug You? delicately addresses these themes, empowering preschool-aged children to navigate social interactions with confidence and understanding.
Through relatable characters and engaging storytelling, May I Hug You? guides young readers through scenarios where they learn to recognise when someone is setting a boundary and the appropriate response to ensure those boundaries are respected. By emphasising communication and empathy, Blunt’s book provides a foundation for healthy relationships and fosters the skills of kindness and respect.
“In today’s world, where understanding boundaries and respecting personal space is paramount, equipping our children with these skills sets them up for success in all facets of life.”
“The inspiration behind May I Hug You? stems from my desire to equip my daughters with the necessary skills to navigate social interactions with empathy and understanding, whilst maintaining their self-worth and knowing their limits,” says Oleta Blunt. “As a mother, I recognise the profound impact these essential life skills can have on a child’s subconscious, future relationships and overall well-being.”
Now available on bookshelves from leading retailers such as Dymocks, Collins and Booktopia; Blunt encourages parents, educators, and caregivers to secure their copies and enjoy reading along and learning.
For more information about Oleta Blunt and May I Hug You? please visit https://oletablunt.com/