Cam's Colors: A Show & Tail of Emotions

Erika Armstrong

Degree: BFA

Area: Graphic Design

Thesis Statement

There's no single solution to addressing the stigmas, issues, and hurdles that exist within the realm of mental health, but any small step in the right direction is a good start. A key component to mental health is that of emotional health, an area that currently needs increased transparency and conversation, especially when it comes to children. Maureen Healy, the author of "The Emotionally Healthy Child", said in a recent interview, "A starting point of emotional health is learning how to name your emotions and express them constructively, no matter what they are." Building off of that starting point and taking into consideration the need for open conversation and the importance of parental modeling opens the door for a creative solution. That creative solution took the form of a children's book and accompanying guide revolving around the topic of emotional health. "Cam's Colors: A Show & Tail of Emotions" provides a colorful world and character that teaches and encourages emotional health in children. This book takes the opportunity to facilitate open conversations, while providing children with the vocabulary they need to communicate their emotions and even ask for help. Alongside the book is a Caregiver's Guide, which emphasizes the significance of emotional health, while providing caregivers with multiple resources to begin the necessary conversations surrounding emotional health.