This is Carolyn. Like many kids her age, Carolyn loves animals, castles, and building with blocks. She is helpful to her mom and dad and even to her baby brother. Carolyn started a new school this year. She thinks her teacher seems nice and she is getting to know her classmates. The other students are curious about Carolyn because she uses a wheelchair. Carolyn is a happy, energetic, caring first-grader who just happens to be in a wheelchair. She’s excited to start her new year of school and make new friends.

Yes I Can! follows Carolyn on a typical day at home, at school, and even on a field trip! She can do almost everything the other kids can, even if sometimes she has to do it a little differently.

Includes a Note to Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers with more information on discussing disabilities with children and helping them to build positive, empathic relationships.

Author Bio:

Kendra J. Barrett, DPT, is a pediatric physical therapist who has worked in early intervention and public schools for eight years since graduating from Ithaca College with a doctorate in physical therapy. She currently works in a public school for students age 3–21 with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD, is the co-author of a number of books for children and teens addressing social and emotional challenges. She practiced clinical psychology for over three decades serving children, teens, and families.

Claire A. B. Freeland, PhD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice, working for more than 35 years with youth and their families.

Illustrator Bio:

Violet Lemay was a stage designer, a college art professor, and an editorial illustrator before arriving at her dream job: illustrating books for kids. Violet has illustrated more than 20 books, a handful of which she also wrote. If she’s not at her desk drawing, she’s probably in the backyard feeding the birds, who think she is Snow White.

Review:

The authors have written a very uplifting story that focuses more on what Carolyn can do, than what she can’t do. Carolyn is very outgoing, social and wants to participate. And there are many things available to help children with disabilities adapt and participate. – Children’s Books Heal

• Hard cover (Picture book)
• Age range 5+
• Full Colour
• 32 Page