Recognising the complexities that come with understanding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) for the younger generation, global pump manufacturer Grundfos has partnered with Danish publisher Milton Around The World to develop an illustrated children’s book to help shed light on what the pandemic is all about, and how we can play our part in fighting it.

Developed with children aged 5-8 years in mind, the story titled ‘Milton and the Invisible Coronavirus’ follows the rabbit Milton, and his two friends, Amanda the butterfly and Conrad the hedgehog, as they navigate the various challenges in their daily lives as a result of the pandemic – from social distancing to ensuring personal hygiene. This book aims to reduce the fear and uncertainty that the children may be experiencing about the COVID-19 pandemic that is difficult to understand.

As a sponsor of the publication, Grundfos is currently looking into initiatives to further disseminate it across its Asia Pacific markets, with first steps including sharing the digital version with local schools and educational non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

In Denmark, the book is already being used in primary schools to alleviate concerns and explain the COVID-19 situation to these young children, offering a way for teachers and students to discuss some of the questions the pandemic has raised.

They added that the purpose of the book and its associated teaching material is in an educational and non-intimidating way to explain to children what COVID-19 is, and why we should be careful about hygiene and contact with others.

“This is exactly where Milton can help. By creating a single story that targets 5 to 8-year-olds, we will explain in a fact-based and safe way what COVID-19 is, how and why we should look out for each other. Of course, with rabbit Milton taking centre stage as a fun-loving character.”

‘Milton and the Invisible Coronavirus’ is available free for digital download on Grundfos’ website.