Groundbreaking Paper on Storytelling and Children's Resilience

We’re thrilled to share the publication of Kate Markland’s latest academic paper, titled:

"From Adversity to Agency: Storytelling as a Tool for Building Children’s Resilience."

This timely and powerful piece explores how storytelling can serve as a therapeutic and developmental tool for children who have experienced trauma, loss, or instability—also known as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). In a world where childhood emotional struggles are increasingly met with medicalisation, Kate offers a human-centred, creative alternative: giving children their voice back through narrative.

What’s the Paper About?

Kate’s research-driven article demonstrates how storytelling supports emotional regulation, strengthens self-worth, and nurtures social bonds. It delves into:

✅ How storytelling helps children make sense of difficult experiences
✅ Why narrative creation is essential for building emotional resilience
✅ The neuroscience behind storytelling and its impact on empathy and self-regulation
✅ Practical methods for integrating storytelling in classrooms, therapy, and homes

A Deeply Personal Case Study: The Adventures of Gabriel

Central to the paper is the moving case study of Kate and her son, Gabriel, who co-authored The Adventures of Gabriel over weekly FaceTime calls, Gabriel orated his stories, and Kate scribed them—creating not only a powerful book series but a lifeline that preserved their connection, trust, and his self-expression.

This process proved that storytelling is far more than a literacy activity—it’s a bridge for healing, bonding, and growth.

Why This Matters Now

Globally, we are seeing a surge in children being diagnosed and medicated for emotional and behavioural issues. While medical support has its place, Kate’s work offers a complementary—and in many cases, preventive—approach that honours children's inner worlds.

By encouraging children to craft and share their personal narratives:
✨ They gain a sense of control and authorship over their lives
✨ They develop essential life skills like empathy, communication, and confidence
✨ They begin to heal

Read the Full Paper

From Adversity to Agency: Storytelling as a Tool for Building Children’s Resilience
Published: November 2024 | Journal of Novel Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
🔗 Read it here

Want to Bring This Work to Your Organisation or Event?

Kate is now offering keynote talks, educator workshops, and consultancy based on the paper’s findings.

If you're an educator, mental health professional, policy maker, or event organiser passionate about empowering children, this work is for you.

Get in touch to explore how storytelling can support your children, schools, or community.📩 

"Stories don’t just entertain us. They heal us. They empower us. They help children become the heroes of their own lives." – Kate Markland