Exceptional Children Awareness

AUGUST 26-30, 2019

August 26-30 is Exceptional Children Awareness Week at East Side. This is a time to bring awareness to and celebrate children with different exceptionalities. Our theme for the week is "Dare to be Yourself!" Students will have the chance to answer daily trivia questions for prizes, and teachers have been provided with books about different exceptionalities to read during class. Below are some links to videos you and your children can watch together:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYZJvauL5tU (5 min 30 sec)

Wilma Rudolph.  Born prematurely, the 20th of 22 African American children, she suffered from polio at age 4 which caused her to lose strength in her leg.  The doctors said she would never walk again.  This video shows how Wilma overcame and with perseverance went on to earn Olympic Gold medals in 1960 for running.  This video inspires children to always strive to go beyond perceived limitations.

https://youtu.be/GS9KR83ovg0 (4 mins)

I am Shaquem Griffin.  Better for 3rd-5th.  Never quit, it's about your heart, your mind, and your will.  Despite having only one hand, he went on to earn selection in NFL Draft.  Led team in tackles, became defensive player of the year, UCF undefeated season.  Encourages children to never doubt themselves and remain determined.

https://www.additudemag.com/what-does-adhd-feel-like-to-a-child-video/ (1 min 35 seconds)

This video filled with actual quotes from children age 6-10 w/ ADD/ADHD describing what their creative brains are like. Example “My brain and body are like a chariot pulled by super fast unicorns!” set to upbeat music

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgmEI_uLylc (3 Min)

Positive aspects of High Functioning Autism.  Focused, very honest, unique thinkers, 3-dimensional thinkers, no 2 people on autism spectrum the same

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wc77MksM_2c (3 Min)

Marvelous Max Autism  Being different is what makes us unique.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV6fPw-MRFo (2 min 30 seconds)

What makes a good friend?  Inclusion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKSUsS-NoRY (2 Mins)

Be Kind to Everyone.  East Side = Be Kind