Hello all.... Here's that positive story I need to share with you.

Trinity repeated first grade this year. Because of last years upset with a neighbors child..(earlier blog) I kept thinking about going to class with her and talking to the kids...I was reluctant. FINALLY, I got brave. It's funny...my husband and I used to be musicians and singers for a living. I fronted our show....Talking is what I did best. But, talking to all those 6 year olds was scary!!

I asked her teacher if I could come and talk with the class and she was happy to have me do it. This is what happened.

I took Trinitys favorite book...."I Love You Stinky Face"...(by the way, I recommend this highly) All the children made a half moon around me and Trinity...I read to them to get their attention. The book reassures children that no matter WHAT...we will love them. When I finished, I asked if any of the kids knew anthing about autism. A couple of hands went up. These children were REALLY paying attention. I explained to them that this is what Trinity has. I went on to say that she was just like them, even when she acted different. I told them that she loved school and friends and her family and all the things they liked. I told them that her brain processed information and language differently, so sometimes she would not respond in a proper way .

I asked these little people to have patience with her and redirect her when necessary. In short...to be her friends. The teacher was grateful for my visit and said she now had a much better understanding of Trinity.

These beautiful little people stepped up like you wouldn't believe!! They had unlimited patience and resolve with her. They included her in every way they could. They enjoyed standing by her in line and eating at the lunch table with her. They WERE HER FRIENDS! I saw it in action many, many times.

I recommend this to any of you with special needs children. DO go talk to the kids. They are so willing to do the right thing when asked. Remember that story in the news just before school got out for the summer? The one in Florida where the teacher had the class vote an autistic 5 year old "out".? These SAME kids COULD have done the right thing with this child if it had been presented to them, instead of having the WRONG thing presented to them.

On the last day of school....I went back with little treat bags for all the kids and once again they gave me their attention. I praised them as humanitarians and told them that they were wonderful and deserved a trophy as big as their classroom. Their little smiling faces will remain in my minds eye forever. I told them they were important and had made a wonderul difference in the life of a friend. THEY GOT IT!!

Never underestimate a child!! After what I saw this year...I think our future is in the hands of some awesome individuals....