Kevin

<p>After coming out of retirement I was inspired by the school principal to work with handicapped children. Because of my teaching experience in bilingual education she believed I was greatly needed by these children. When I walked into the classroom I realized it was a totally different world. I took a deep breath and asked the Lord What am I doing here? How am I going to reach out to these children? I know nothing about special-needs and development children and handicapped children.</p><p></p><p>A crying Down syndrome child walked up to me and hugged me; he said You are my friend. I melted because this child loved me. I realized I was the one who needed them. I had another experience when I had a child in a wheelchair; we were going to the gym when a kindergarten child from general ed. asked me if the child was dead. I was speechless.</p><p></p><p>A special-needs teacher handled the situation. She redirected the kindergarten child to look at his shoes clothing and hair. She said He is taking a long nap but he will wake up in the gym. You can say hi to him. </p><p></p><p>These are some of the reasons why I wrote this children's book. I believe it is of vital importance for other children to know that they learn just like them; there is no difference. Special-needs teachers need to be celebrated and be told they are doing a great job. I thank the teachers for the training they have given me and the love I get from the children.</p>