Today was the first official day of our special needs unit. The kids were able to meet Joni Eareckson Tada through a DVD this morning. They were all captivated as they listened to her share her story about her diving accident at 17 that left her paralyzed. They all felt down the bones in their necks as she explained what happened to her spinal cord. Joni shared about how discouraged she was, but how christian friends encouraged her, prayed for her, and read God's word to her. Even when you are five you can't help but feel a connection to Joni because she shares so openly from her heart and you know that her faith in God and passion to serve Him is real.
Joni shared the story of The Good Samaritan. The story is such a good example of how we often respond to those in need. Joni also introduced the children to a teenager and a child that were blessed by the ministry of "Wheels for the World" and were given a wheelchair.
The children were excited about meeting my teaching assistant, which is a child's wheelchair. None of them were apprehensive at all and wanted to be the first one to ride in the wheelchair. Usually the children take awhile to feel comfortable, but the children this year wanted to give the wheelchair a name and identity. Due to the happy face patch on the back of the chair, they named it "Smiley."
We read a variety of books today about physical disabilities and colored a couple of coloring pages that will go in a special memory book at the end of the unit.
On the playground and in the hallway a number of children's heads turned when the tiny wheelchair went by. They were instantly concerned about the child riding in it. It gave us a great opportunity to share about what we are learning.
It was exciting to have $55 come in to kick off our fund-raising efforts, but it was even more exciting to hear the children's questions. They are so full of questions and even better, compassion. I would love to share more, but I better get some sleep. Thanks for reading....
Deana
Books we read today:
Someone Special Just Like You by Tricia Brown
We Are All Alike We are All Different by Cheltenham Elem. School Kindergartners
Bebe and Me by Sophie McDow
Some Kids Use Wheelchairs by Lola M. Schaefer
Some Kids Use Braces by Lola M. Schaefer
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