The Butterfly Effect - Day 15

     For those of you that may just be joining us on our journey, let me summarize.  I teach a Bridge class for 5 year-old students.  Every year I take them on a month long journey on "How To Be A Friend To Someone With A Disability."  I love to teach "typical kids" about kids with special needs, first breaking down the wall of fear, then pity, and leading to empowerment of all children.  We have completed our weeks on physical disabilities, hearing impairment, and visual impairment.  Next week we will conclude with a week on intellectual and mental challenges.  The majority of the lesson plans are extracted from "Joni & Friends" and their curriculum, "How To Be A Friend To Someone With A Disability."
     Yesterday we concluded our week on visual impairment by listening to the singers, performers, and musicians, Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles.  We listened to Dion Warwick and Stevie Wonder sing, "That's What Friends Are For," and Ray Charles sing, "America the Beautiful."  When Stevie Wonder sang, one of my shy little girls came up to me, closed her eyes, held out her arms, and swayed to the music.  With her sweet little voice she said, "Do you mind if I sing with him?"
     During the unit we have also raised money for a wheelchair for "Wheels for the World."  My goal was to raise $300.  They have now raised $1,800!  More than that, they have learned about to serve and sacrifice for other children.

The Butterfly Effect - Day 14

     I realized that the kids needed to have some understanding that to be visually impaired can vary quite a bit.  They had only experienced being completely blindfolded.  I passed around a piece of wax paper for them to look through.  They could see light and dark but everything was blurry.  Then I passed around a piece of paper with a hole in it.  This was to represent "tunnel vision."  I think the children have become more and more grateful for the abilities they do have and I hope they have some understanding of how 

God 's power can be shown through our weaknesses now.   

     During our "Circle Time" we talked about the story found in John 9:1-7 when Jesus healed a blind man.  The man was begging for money so we had a great opportunity to talk about people that are asking for money on the street corners.  The kids had a lot of questions about that.  Then we talked about how Jesus healed him by putting mud on his eyes.  Once again, a man's challenge allowed God's power to be shown.

The Butterfly Effect - Day 13

     Yesterday we learned about "How To Be A Friend To The Visually Impaired," by Joni Eareckson Tada.  In her book, she suggests the following:

• "When greeting a person with vision impairment, always identify yourself and others who may be with you.  They like to know who they are with!
• Speak to them directly and use a normal tone of voice.  Many times people have the tendency to raise voices or talk through someone else.
• Remember they are going to follow your voice so it is polite to let them know when you move from one place to another.
• When you offer to assist someone with vision impairment, allow them to take your arm instead of reaching for theirs.  This will help you guide them.
• Even though you may be tempted to pet a Seeing Eye dog, you should not do so without asking permission first.  The dog's job is very important and they should not be distracted."

I think the suggestion they found the most interesting was not to move around the room.  That had not occurred to me either.  

     After we talked about these suggestions, we took turns going on a "Trust Walk."  The kids did a great job making sure that no one bumped into anything and even told their partner if someone was coming down the hall.  One of the children that was blindfolded said hello to the Director of our school, Steffani Wilkins.  She said, "How did you know it was me?"  The child's guide said, "I let him know that you were coming."

I was amazed at how polite they were!

     After we returned to the room, the blindfolded children wrote their name on a paper.  They were surprised at how well they did.

     The kids brought in another $350 today.  Several teachers asked today if we were caught up on the number of butterflies on the walls of the school.  I laughed and told them that I have stopped worrying about that.  I can't keep up with the kids so we just keep making butterflies and they keep raising money.  Mrs, Williamson, our aide, probably dreams about butterflies now.  So many people have had a hand in making butterfies.  Teachers have helped with bending antennae, volunteers have helped glue and tape, mommies have cut and glued endless butterflies and I have one teacher who is the butterfly angel that picks up the ones that have fallen during the night and puts them back on the wall.

The Butterfly Effect -Day 12

     This week we are talking about what it would be like to be blind.  I asked the kids what they thought they wouldn't be able to do if they were blind.  Some of their responses were:  we wouldn't be able to read, we would get lost, we wouldn't be able to drive, and we wouldn't be able to watch TV.  All of them found it difficult to comprehend not being able to see.
     I shared with them some different tools the blind can use to help them.  We talked about white canes, guide dogs and Braille.  They are very familiar with sign language so I asked then what language the blind use.  I got some interesting answers....German, Italian and Spanish. I don't think any of them had ever seen Braille before.  They were amazed as they ran their fingers over the Braille alphabet and their jaws dropped when I showed them a book of the Bible in Braille.
     Just as the kids were given the opportunity to paint by holding a paintbrush in their mouths, today they were given the opportunity to paint blindfolded.  Interestingly enough, they thought being blindfolded was much harder.
     After all of our lessons, we worked on getting a few more butterflies ready to hang up.  We are up to 900 butterflies on the walls of the school.  We have about 750 to go!  It has been a topic of conversation for all of the classes at the school as the butterflies have almost completely encircled it.  The children brought in enough for another wheelchair today so we are up to 11 now.  God never ceases to amaze me, nor does the dedication and commitment of the children.

TheButterfly Effect - Day 11

    Today we were able to have another visit with Joni Eareckson Tada.  She shared more with us about "Wheels for the World."  The wheelchairs are collected around the United States and then taken to 16 different prisons to be given a "face lift."  She shared that some of the prisoners have written to tell her that they were hoping to get as many wheelchairs as they can ready before they are released.  I love how Joni thinks big.  Not only is the person who receives the wheelchair blessed by the ministry, but the volunteers around the world and the prisoners working on them are too.

     After the wheelchairs are refurbished, they are shipped overseas to people that need them.  Joni introduced us to a little boy affected by cerebral palsy that was blessed with one of the wheelchairs!  Along with the wheelchair, people like Edwin, are given a Bible and a gospel bracelet.  The bracelet has different colored beads on it.

• Gold - stands for Heaven
• Dark - stands for sin
• Red - stands for the blood of Christ
• White - stands for a clean heart
• Green  - stands for growth

     We are on the third week of the fundraiser and my precious kids are still bringing bags full of money.  I wish I had an adequate way to express the joy on their faces when they bring in the money.  One of the kids came in with a 100 dollar bill this morning for one of her fabric creations.  Another child dictated a book to his mom and illustrated it.  He is now selling his autographed copies!!!  All of the children are working so hard doing chores and talking to people about kids that need wheelchairs.  I am so proud of them!

     The butterfly effect keeps spreading as well.  A couple of students from other classes dropped by to donate some of their savings to the wheelchair.  On my way out of the school, I stopped by my box and there was $100 in it for a wheelchair!  We are now up to....

10 Wheelchairs!!

I can't believe the number of people that have helped with these efforts.  So many people have helped cut, glue and tape butterflies to the wall.  It is absolutely mind blowing!

The Interesting Thing About Butterflies.....

     I picked up a beautiful book about butterflies at the "Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center."  It first caught my eye because of the beautiful illustrations in watercolor.  I love watercolor!  The title of the book is, A Butterfly Is Patent, written by Dianna Hutts Aston and illustrated by Sylvia Long.  They describe and illustrate 10 interesting thoughts about butterflies:

• A butterfly is patient
• A butterfly is creative
• A butterfly is helpful
• A butterfly is protective
• A butterlfy is poisonous
• A butterfly is spectacular
• A butterfly is thirsty
• A butterfly is big and tiny
• A butterfly is scaly
• A butterfly is not a moth
• A butterfly is a traveller
• A butterfly is magical

While I was reading the book this weekend I was comparing it to my five year-old students and most of them applied (I cancelled a few of them :)  Five year-olds can be a lot like butterflies.

     As stated in the book, butterflies are also pollinators.  The kids have certainly been pollinators as they have shared what they have been doing to friends, neighbors and even strangers.  They leave a little trail of "pollen" everywhere they go.

     The largest butterfly in the world has wings that can span up to 1 foot.  The smallest is one third of an inch.  It doesn't matter how big or tiny they are, they are still pollinators....just like my kids :)

     Another section of the book that I found interesting was, "A butterfly is a traveller."  In Dianna Aston's book is says,  

"Most butterflies, such as the Red Admiral or the Common Buckeye, migrate a short distance to find a warmer place, but some, like the Monarch, travel far.  Although Monarchs weigh only as much as a few rose petals, they can fly almost 3,000 miles (4, 828 km) from Canada to their winter home in Mexico, at a rate of 20 miles per hour.  Glider pilots have reported seeing Monarchs flying at an altitude of 11,000 feet (3,352.8 m) - higher than some clouds!"

Powerful little things!

     By now you probably think I am nuts about butterflies.  Actually, I have never really thought about them before.  I am just enjoying the analogies.  Just like a 1/3 of an inch butterfly can make a difference, so can one 35 pound five year-old.  Just as the butterfly travels so far, so has the effect of the 5 year-old as people watch him work hard to raise money for another child that needs mobility.  Butterflies, and children, are powerful creations that can make a huge difference and that difference can multiply over and over again.

The Butterfly Effect - The Weekend

     This morning I woke up early to go to one of my students garage sales.  She had made wonderful signs letting her customers know what the fundraiser was for.  She made lemonade and wonderful chocolate chip cookies.  She had gathered toys together that she was ready to part with.  Taylor raised about $85 to contribute to the wheelchairs.  That puts us at....

8 Wheelchairs!!!

Taylor, I can't wait to do the happy dance on Monday!  All of the kids will be excited!!  Thanks for all of your hard work!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 10

     Well, this old lady is wonderfully and blissfully tired!  I feel every day of 50 today but my heart couldn't be more excited!  Today we again had a factory of butterflies going.   Moms, kids, teachers, aides, front desk people and the Director of the school were all working on butterflies.  During Bible study this morning, a group of teachers all helped bend 600 pairs of butterfly antennae.  Not only were the kids blessed, but more adults are participating and being blessed by the process as well!  Thanks to all of their hard work, there are 700 butterflies down the hallway of the school.  We have about 500 more to make with three more events ahead of us.

     Today I was struck by how much the kids have matured through this.  They were so polite and all were anxious to help each other and help me today.  They have always been sweet kids but they have really grown through this.  I have grown through this.  I am grateful that God gave me the promptings to make this bigger this year and I followed through on what I felt He was telling me to do, but the sad thing is that I underestimated God.  It is hitting me that I do that far more often than I would like to admit.  How many things have I missed because I wasn't listening or watching?  My faith has grown over the last couple of weeks as well as my sense of expectation.

     Today I read another book to the kids by Andy Andrews, The Boy Who Changed the World.  It is a great book for kids, but sure makes an adult think as well.  In his beautiful book he talks about how a person has changed the world but then you step back and realize that someone before him did something to change the world and that was the only way the next person could have done it.  For example, family and friends have given money for "Wheels for the World" because they heard about it.  They wouldn't have if the kids hadn't done their projects and fundraisers.  The kids couldn't have done what they did unless the parents had supported them in their ideas.  The parents wouldn't have known to unless I shared the vision with them.  I wouldn't have had the vision if it hadn't been for God.  I wouldn't have understood it unless Andy Andrews wrote The Butterfly Effect.  He, no doubt, had something happen to cause him to write it. It goes on and on.....

     "That means every little thing You do matters:  what you did yesterday, what you do today, and what you do tomorrow.  God made your life so important that every move you make, every action you take, matters....and not only for you or the people around you.  Everything you do matters for everyone and for all time!  When you think about it like that...WOW!  That means YOU can be the kid who changes the world!"  by Andy Andrews

     That certainly gives me something to think about this weekend :)  I know for me, I have been thinking about being 50.  I am in at least in the 3rd quarter of the game.  What will God ask me to do to make a difference?  Am I listening?  Am I watching?  Am I expecting?

The Butterfly Effect - Day 9

     Today the following verse comes to mind,

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!  Amen."  Ephesians 3:20, 21


God has certainly done far more than we imagined this week.  The butterfly effect has been so visual for the kids and continues to get bigger and bigger and so does the excitement!  Last night it was decided that there were going to be too many butterflies for the castle wall, so the butterflies migrated to the school hallway.  It gives such a visual for the whole school to feel part of.  As I was hanging up the butterflies a mom stopped me and handed me a check for "Wheels for the World."  I thanked her and her daughter and didn't look at the check until a few minutes later.  She had handed me a check for an additional wheelchair!!  The kids are now up to 7 wheelchairs!!!  What a wonderful gift that young woman gave!  I immediately shared the good news with the kids and they immediately shouted, "Do we get to do the happy dance again?"  Of course we did!
     Today we learned about powerful people that have the challenge of hearing impairment or loss.  First we listened to the music of Beethoven and the incredible composer he was.  He first started writing music when he was 7 years old.  Over the years he gradually lost more and more of his hearing and lived in fear that someone would discover it.  He had no idea the incredible impact he made on music and the world!
     Then we moved to YouTube and watched some clips of Helen Keller.  The children were surprised at how out of control her behavior was and were equally amazed when they watched how she was eventually able to communicate.  She indeed made a huge impact on the world!
     As incredible as the day already was, another woman stopped by my classroom at the end of the day and said that she had a friend that would like to come talk to the class and share her experience of loosing her mobility after a bicycle accident.  It turns out that I met this woman several years ago and she was hoping to speak to my class then but became ill.  Since then I had misplaced her contact information.    No problem, God knows her number and can reconnect us!  I can hardly wait to see her again.  She, too, is an amazing woman because God's power is manifested through her.
     One of my challenges has always been that I get incredibly motion sick.  I cannot ride roller coasters, I can't sit in swings, and have to sit in the front seat of cars.  I have often imagined how exciting a roller coaster must feel to other people.  I have to say though, that I love the rides God takes me on better.  They are exciting, you never know what is around the bend and it is going to be incredibly exhilarating (and no motion sickness!)  Thanks for always bringing me along, God!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 8

     Every morning I am greeted with proud little faces with bags full of money.  One of my students came in and handed me $20.  I asked him how he earned it and he said that his neighbor knew about it and came over and gave him the money to contribute.  I shared with the kids that this is what "The Butterfly Effect" is all about.  They got things rolling and then it starts to spread to more and more people until a HUGE difference has been made!  I have watched the children grow and change so much over the last couple of weeks.  They are more mature, more excited, and more giving.  They get so many things that it takes a lifetime for some of us adults to get.  They have now earned enough money for.....

FIVE WHEELCHAIRS!!!!

     This morning I was able to share a few YouTube clips with the kids.  One was "Learn About Human Body Parts for Kids - Ears."  It gave a brief explanation of how sounds are collected by the ears and the brain interprets it.  It also talked about how to take care of your ears.

     The second clip I showed them was "Jackson's Cochlear Implant Activation."  In this clip, Jackson is about the same age of my students and has already had one cochlear implant and is about to receive another one.  You can see his excitement as his ability to hear is expanded.

     Lastly, we watched "The Butterfly Effect" by Andy Andrews.  It talks about how we are all created special and we can all make a difference each and every day.

     After the DVDs we talked about "How to Be a Friend to the Hearing Impaired" from "On a Roll For Jesus" published by Joni and Friends.  In the book she shares tips on how to be a friend.

• It is not necessary to make any big movements or to shout to get the attention of someone who is hearing impaired.  Gently tap them on the shoulder or wave your hand.
• Look directly at the person when speaking or signing.  Sometimes they will rely on your body language and facial expressions to help them understand.
• Speak slowly and expressively to establish if they are able to read your lips.  It is important not to block your mouth with your hands and/or other object when speaking and don't chew gum.  It makes it really hard to read your lips!
• Remember that shouting or raising your voice will not help them understand you better.  Written notes can help if needed.  It is a good idea to learn some basic sign language.  Many high schools offer American Sign Language as a language credit.
• If an interpreter or someone else is helping you speak with a person with a hearing impairment, remember to talk to the person and not the interpreter.  
• Be patient.  It may take a little bit longer for a person who is hearing impaired to understand what you are saying.  Rephrase or repeat if necessary.  Don't give up!

     Tonight I shared with our small group from church about the "Wheels for the World" project and one of the members asked about the wheelchairs.  I told him about them and he said, "Put me down for one," and then wrote out a check.  I am completely blown away by what God is doing!

We are up to 6 WHEELCHAIRS now!!  TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 7

     Excitement was in the air as the kids came in this morning!  Tables and chairs were set up, tablecloths were added, wonderful crafts were added and then the wonderful kids!  Teachers, parents and students could buy fabric creations, banana bread, butterfly magnets, popcorn, lemonade, Easter decorations, bird seed cakes, pet rocks, notepads, paintings or a "Frosty."  I even had parents handing me money as they walked down the hall.  The kids have now raised enough money for...

FOUR WHEELCHAIRS!!!

The kids have been so creative and so dedicated!  They have worked really hard and I am so proud of them!!  The mommas are pretty awesome as well!

     In the midst of all the excitement we also talked about accommodations for the hearing impaired/deaf.  I showed them the inner ear system and asked them what they thought it was.  I had all kinds of interesting answers... the tubes in the ears that babies get, a sea creature, a pretzel.  Then I showed them some hearing aids.  They were amazed at how the hearing aids are getting smaller and smaller and were even more amazed when I told them that disposable hearing aids are available.  We also talked about cochlear implants, closed captioning and how flashing lights can be used in the home to alert someone that the doorbell or telephone is ringing.  We ended our lesson with practicing the alphabet in sign language and the vocabulary we have been learning.  We also watched a great DVD called, "Signing Time." Tomorrow I will share Joni's lesson about "How to be a Friend to Someone With a Hearing Impairment."

     I am so grateful for God giving me a bigger vision this year.  For Andy Andrews book, The Butterfly Effect, that was such an inspiration to me, for the incredibly supportive parents I have, and for the loving and compassionate students I have.  What a wonderful week it has been!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 6

     WOW!  Let me say it again, WOW!  Today was incredible.  It was wonderful to see my sweet students this morning but even more amazing to see them come in with bags full of money for the "Wheels for the World" program.  They worked so hard over Spring Break bringing in trash cans, selling flowers, selling lemonade, selling birdseed cakes, selling fabric creations and so much more.  They were so excited about the number of sales they had made.  Are you ready?  They brought in $400 on their first day!!  That is enough money for 2 1/2 wheelchairs!!  I am so incredibly proud of these sweet kids!

     Today we watched a DVD of Joni telling us about the "Wheels for the World" program.  She shared about the mechanics that are blessed to refurbish the wheelchairs and the people around the world that have to be carried or crawl to move around and often times spend their days in bed.  Through the "Wheels for the World" program, they are given the gift of mobility and a Bible in their own language.  She also shared about a young girl that received her first wheelchair at 11 years old and she was thrilled!

     Joni shared with us the verse found in John 13:34,

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another."

     This week we are talking about people that are hearing impaired or deaf.  To help the children understand what it would be like, the children took turns wearing noise reduction headphones.  They also took turns trying to communicate with a partner without talking.  I asked them what would be hard about being deaf and they said they wouldn't be able to hear someone talking or hear a knock, a school bell, or know when it was time for lunch.  Tomorrow we will talk about accommodations that help with these challenges.

     The children were able to put a butterfly on the wall of the castle for every dollar they brought in today.  The butterflies are started to take over the castle and I love it.  I can hardly wait for tomorrow!

The Butterfly Effect - Still Spring Break!

     There are many things in life that I truly love.  I love the 100+ students that God has blessed me with over the last 7 years.  They taught me more than I ever conceived of teaching them.  I think about them often and the journeys they are on.  I feel fortunate that God gave me a moment in their lives.  

     I love my current students.  In fact, I am approaching the time of year that makes me a little weepy because my moment with them will be over soon.  Just as a butterfly touches down for a moment and does a little pollinating, I hope I have too.

     I love my own kids that reside in the depths of my soul.  It is a continual journey of holding on and letting go.  They, too, have taught me many things over the years.  They have taught me how to love more people, they have taught me how to be content, and they have me how to trust God a little more.  I love them dearly and treasure the joy they have given me over the years.

     I love my grandchildren in words I cannot measure.  It is a beautiful relationship in which I don’t have to worry about the outcome so much.  I just love them with a continual unconditional love.  I have the beauty of playing with them to my hearts content and then taking a nap whenever I need to :)

     In every woman’s life, however, comes the need for rest.  A time to relax and reflect, and

ultimately, a time to worship.  I am nearing the end of Spring Break and it has been wonderful.  I have had time wonderful moments with family but I realized early in the week that I needed to plan a little time for “sanctuary.”  I have found a variety of sanctuaries in my lifetime.  At one time it was on a mountain top in the Rockies.  Another time it was simply a few moments in the restroom all by myself.  In my 30’s it was by a quiet lake.  I told Bill this week that I need another sanctuary in my life and then it hit me, I knew where it was.

     This morning I packed up my Bible, my Bible study, some pens, the book I am writing, my computer, my camera and a little snack and headed to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.  It truly is a sanctuary for me.  You see, 

God is my love

The Bible is my foundation

The church is my nutrition

     My family is my joy

And nature is my sanctuary

     In nature, I feel like I am with God on His turf.  He created everything out here.  Everything is different and has its own beauty.  Stronger plants often support weaker plants.

Bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush get along and actually help each other.  Butterflies flit around and leave a “little something” everywhere they go.  The effect is amazing.  I love the moments there.  I know God is with me wherever I go, but when I am in nature, I feel like it is just God and me...alone.  I have found “sanctuary” at the picnic tables, under the trees, along the trails, and in the quiet benches under the trees.

     In a few more days, I will be back at school with my 15 students.  I know they have exciting things to tell me.  I will probably hear stories about people they saw with disabilities.  I will hear about the amazing things that are happening with their projects for “Wheels for the World.”  It is imperative to have moments with God in whatever sanctuary we have found, but is equally important to get back to real life.  God can be found in both places.

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Jeremiah 29:13

The Butterfly Effect - Spring Break

Take initiative
Help someone take their next step
Empower those around you

Believe in the difference you can make
Utter positive things to people
Teach children that everyone matters
Teach children that they were created with a purpose
Encourage those around you
Reach out to someone different than you
Forgive yourself for the past and make changes for the future
Love as much as possible
Youth, take a minute to learn something from them

Enjoy every moment
Fight for those that can't
Face your challenges and overcome them
Eagerly make a difference
Create an atmosphere of hope
Take a moment to pray

The Butterfly Effect - Day 5

     Our guest speaker today was Melissa, a physical therapist.  She started off by having us stand up and then sit down on the floor.  She asked the children if that was easy and they said yes.  She then asked them to hold one foot and stand up and then sit down.  This was a little more challenging.  She then explained that physical therapists help their patients learn how to move better.  Sometimes she has to teach someone how to move in a whole new way.  Holding their foot while they tried to sit down or stand up gave them a glimpse of how difficult it could be.

     Melissa brought in all kinds of equipment for us to try and use.  She brought in crutches, forearm crutches and a walker.  She also taught the children a few things about how to use a wheelchair.  All of the children enjoyed using the equipment and talked about what it would be like doing different tasks with each piece of equipment.

     "The Butterfly Effect" is starting to take place in the classroom.  We have had a couple of children bring in money for the wheelchair which has in turn made more children excited about their projects.  We are now up to $23 towards a wheelchair for a child.  It is exciting to watch the number of butterflies start to grow.  I have a feeling we will see a lot of growth after the kids come back from Spring Break.  I made my first purchase from one of the children.  I love my new beautifully decorated notepad!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 4

     Today we talked about "Powerful People."  Not people that are powerful on their own, but because they have lifted up their challenges to God and let God show His power through them.

     We talked about the difference Joni Eareckson Tada is making in the world.  She cannot walk and has limited use of her arms, but she is an amazing artist, an excellent speaker, and has made a huge difference in people's lives all over the world.  What a wonderful testimony she is to God's power.

     We were blessed to listen to the beautiful music of Tony Melendez.  It didn't take the children long to realize that he plays the guitar with his feet since he doesn't have any arms.  We talked about all of the things he does with his feet, so in honor of Tony, we all took our shoes off and spent the morning barefoot!  Everyone enjoyed that!

     Lastly, we met Nick.  Nick is a young man that was born without arms or legs, but what a wonderful testimony he has of how God is using Him to reach the world.  The children loved hearing that he can swim even though he does not have any limbs.

     It was a very inspiring morning listening and learning from such powerful people. Join us tomorrow for our guest speaker!

Book List for Teaching "Typical" Children About Children With Special Needs

     If you are wanting to teach "typical" children about children with special needs, here are the books I am using and would recommend:

• Someone Special Just Like You by Tricia Brown
• Susan Laughs by Jeanne Willis
• You've God A Friend by Joni Eareckson Tada
• The Incredible Discovery of Lindsey Renee by Joni Eareckson Tada
• How Are We the Same and Different? by Bobbie Kalman
• Some Kids Use Wheelchairs by Lola M. Schaefer
• Some Kids Wear Leg Braces by Lola M. Schaefer
• My First Book of Sign Language 
• Signing At School
• Heller Keller by Emma Carlson Berne
• What's Wrong With Timmy? by Maria Shriver
• Do You Want A Friend? by Noel Piper
• Russell Is Extra Special by Charles Amenta

If you have some you recommend, I would love for you to add them in the comment section.

The Butterfly Effect - Day 3

     Today was priceless!!!  There is nothing better than when the kids share their heart with you.  I always feel tempted to say, "Hold that thought!"  I have started keeping a notepad by my chair so that I can write the wonderful things down that they share with me.

     We started the conversation this morning with "How to Be a Friend to Someone With a Physical Disability" from On a Roll For Jesus, the book "Joni and Friends" has published.  In the book she shares the following:

• Look past the wheelchair or whatever physical disability the person has.  It is okay to look at the individual.  They are more like you than you realize.
• When talking to someone in a wheelchair sit down in a chair or place yourself at their eye level.  Their neck can begin to hurt if they have to look up for a long time and they might not want to tell you that.
• Speak directly to the person in a wheelchair rather than through the person they are with.
• It is okay to offer your help to someone, but make sure you ask first if the help is needed.  For example, ask permission before you push a wheelchair.  You would not want someone to push you without asking you.
• You wouldn't lean on someone you don't know very well so it is not polite to lean or hang on someone's wheelchair.  The chair is an extension of their personal space.
• Treat a person with a disability the way you like to be treated.

I love all of the practical tips that Joni shares with us in her book!  The children and I had a great time as I gave examples of talking to their shoes, rather than them.  They laughed when I talked to the child pushing the wheelchair about the child in the wheelchair.  They laughed at how much I exaggerated it so they could understand but they also "got it."  I sure wish I had known these tips when I was young.

     Following the discussion, one of my students surprised me with how much he wanted to share about the brace that he has been wearing on his back for the last 6 weeks.  He shared about how uncomfortable it has been.  He then shared that he feels sorry for the kids that have to wear one all the time.  He said "I know that I will get mine off, but the others kids won't."  I thanked him for sharing his feelings and for being so brave and patient the last six weeks.

     Our next activity for the morning was to try painting with our teeth the way Joni does.  They did a great job painting with their hands behind their back.  Most of them enjoyed painting but shared how tiring it was.  They were proud of their pictures.  When I showed them some of Joni's paintings, ALL of their mouths dropped.  I so wish I had captured that moment in a picture.  They couldn't believe how incredible her paintings are.  I reminded them again that when we give our weaknesses to God, His power can be shown.

     During our Bible time,  I shared the story the story Joni suggested of Mephibosheth, grandson of King Saul and son of Prince Jonathan.  During a fight he was left unable to walk and had to have his legs bandaged.  Mephibosheth was to someday be king but the people said that he could not be a good king because he was disabled.  He was kicked out of the palace.

     Mephibosheth later married and had a family.  One day he received a message from King David who said to him "Don't be afraid.  I will be kind to you for your father Jonathan's sake.  I will give you back all the land of your grandfather Saul.  And you will always be able to eat at my table."  King David's kindness changed Mephibosheth's life forever because now, other people started to be kind to him.  Mephibosheth had a blessed life of land and servants and friends.

     We concluded our wonderful day with updates on our fundraising projects.  Here are some of the things that were said:

     "I have some customers.  I am going to get a check from a customer!"

     "I raised $2.  I picked up trash."

     "I made notepads and sold them."

     "We're going to sell lemonade with one nail and it is going to cost $100!"

     Join us tomorrow as we learn about amazing people and how their challenges have brought glory and honor to God!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 2

     After singing some oldies but goodies (Rise and Shine, Jesus Loves the Little Children, and Deep and Wide), we revisited out discussion on what the children thought we wouldn't be able to do if we couldn't walk.  When we talked about how to get around, I shared about vans with a lift and a couple of the children shared that they had seen one.  When we talked about being able to play at a playground, one of the children shared about a new playground that he had been to in Austin that is for children with special needs.  He was so excited as he shared about the ramps and other accommodations!  He had a great idea that we should visit the playground together over Spring Break!

      I loved putting situations before the children and asking what an accommodation could be just as my father did when I was a child.  I shared my dad's story with them about the young man that was denied an interview for a clerk typist position because he didn't have any hands.  They soon realized that the typewriter could be put on the floor and he could type with his toes.  It is exciting to see that their minds are so open already.  

     The children also shared an update on their projects for the wheelchair.  They have great ideas and are gradually discussing more detailed plans with their parents.  One student brought in the first $5 and she put 5 butterflies on the wall to represent each $1.  I cannot wait to see the entire wall covered with butterflies!

     Tomorrow will be a fun and interesting day as we simulate what it would be like to not have the use of our hands.  We will also learn about how to be a friend to someone with a physical disability.

     See you tomorrow!  I plan to have some pictures for you!

The Butterfly Effect - Day 1

     We started off Day 1 with singing, "It's a Beautiful Day!"  Then we had a nice visit with Joni Eareckson Tada, through DVD of course.  She shared her story with us and the day that her life took a traumatic turn.  She was a teenager and was at the lake and dove into shallow water.  She broke one of the vertebrae in her neck and has been paralyzed from the shoulders down ever since.  The recovery was challenging to say the least but her christian friends visited her and encouraged her to use the wheelchair and start enjoying life again.

     Joni shared about her "Wheels For the World" program and introduced us to some children, Jorge and Ai, that have been given a wheelchair through the program.  She showed us glimpses of Thailand and a variety of friends that use wheelchairs to get around.

    Joni shared with us from Luke 10:33,34 about the Good Samaritan and how we need to help those in need.  As Joni said, "Why should the good Samaritan have all of the fun?"  We can join in and help people too.  We can be Jesus' hands and feet in the world by serving others.

  We had a great time talking and sharing about friends that are unable to walk.  I asked the kids what they would not be able to do if their legs didn't work.  They said they would not be able to run, swim, walk, hopscotch, play, swing, do monkey bars, jump, go places, go to school, go to a friend's house, climb on a play scape, get up, and couldn't climb trees.  I can't wait until tomorrow when I tell and show them that they could do most of those activities!  We followed this discussion with a discussion on the things that we can do well and the things that we can't.  We all have strengths and challenges.

     At lunchtime the line leader enjoyed the first ride in the wheelchair.  Usually it takes my students several days before they are comfortable riding in the wheelchair but not this class,  the wall is already down and they are ready for a ride!

     We concluded the day by brainstorming and talking about how we are going to raise money for the wheelchair so that we can send it to Joni.  The kids all informed me that they are going to raise money for two wheelchairs this year!!  I love the ideas the kids came up with:  paint and sell rocks, give clothes away, lemonade stand, yard sale, paint pictures and sell them, make and sell cookies, make and sell birdseed cakes, sell purple lemonade,  pick up newspapers and trash cans for people, sell flowers, sell plants, sell raspberry lemonade and sell fabric creations.  What creative students I have!

     Just for fun, I asked them what I should do to raise money and those ideas were VERY creative!!  They said I could read books to children, pick up newspapers, make wigs, sell pictures, sell dry erase markers, bake cookies, help my mom do the lawn, sell snacks and give sick people a Popsicle.  Oh, how I love kids!!

     We hope you will join us again tomorrow!

specialneeds@thecastle.blog

     For a number of years now, seven I believe,  I have taken my class of 15 five year-olds on a month long journey.  I share with them about physical, hearing, vision, and intellectual/mental challenges.  When I was growing up society taught you not to stare at people with disabilities.  So I didn't stare, but it also meant that I didn't look at them either.  My hope is that through the experiences and lessons we will have, they will learn to see the person first and not the wheelchair.  They will learn that there are a multitude of ways to communicate, not just through our voices and that all of us have been created with a special plan and purpose.  We all have abilities and disabilities and my hope is that they will begin to understand God can use our weaknesses to show his strength.  I love the verses in 2 Corinthians 12:9-11, which read,  

"But He (the Lord) said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness,'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.  That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.  For when I am weak, then I am strong."

It is amazing to see what can happen when we turn our weaknesses over to God to let Him show His strength.

     In addition to learning about a variety of challenges, we will also be talking about "The Butterfly Effect," written by Andy Andrews.  Just as a butterfly moves molecules of air by flapping its wings which then causes other molecules of air to move, the things that we do for change can cause a ripple effect for even more change.  Throughout the unit we will be raising money to send to "Joni & Friends" for their "Wheels for the World" program.  We will raise money to refurbish a wheelchair that will then be distributed somewhere around the world to someone that needs one.

     We would love for you to come on our journey with us for the next month.  We will start tomorrow, March 5.  The kids are already dreaming about what they will do to help raise money for the wheelchair.  I always love to watch the children that work the hardest because they will be the most changed.  We are dreaming big this year so follow our posts and see what happens...