Chicken Soup for the Soul: Children with Special Needs

"These powerful heart-rending stories are
filled with honesty, humor, hope and offer
inspiration to parents, teachers, and anyone
else who cares for children with special needs."
Gerald G. Jompalsky, M.D.

About a year ago, I sent in a personal narrative to Chicken Soup For The Soul. They put out a call for stories about families of Special Needs children. My story was about how I explained to an inquisitive little girl why my daughter, Jaimie, "acted weird" around other people. As I explained what Sensory Integration Dysfunction (SID) was to my little interviewer, I saw her narrow view of Jaimie widen so much, she actually went over to her group of friends and defended Jaimie. It was one of the most touching experiences I've ever had. My story showed my true amazement of how loving children are when they are given the tools to understand. As the months rolled by, I seriously forgot about it. Until one joyous afternoon I received an email I never expected to receive:

"Dear Chynna Laird: Your material is being considered for Chicken Soup For The Soul for Special Needs Children"

They received over 5000 submissions for this call, so to even have my story considered was such an honor for me. But, like all the other parents who submitted, I didn't do it for me: I did it for my child. A beautiful little girl who is often ostricized or ignored because she is different from other people. Not all special needs are seen on the outside; many children suffer from disorders, such as Autism or SID, that we can't see on the outside. This book is dedicated to these children as well as those suffering from more life-threatening diseases and disorders. The stories will inspire, enlighten and demonstrate the true strength and courage these children and their families have.

This book will help other parents, teachers, counsellors and even other children help learn about all children with special needs and, perhaps, see things from a new perspective.