Kids on the Block

At the beginning of the year I had suggested to the school that the Kids on the Block puppet troupe would be a great way to teach the kids about children like Sophie, disabilities and about inclusion.  The Learning Support teacher was interested and asked me to get the information for him.  I was so excited that this morning at Sophie's school it had become a reality and there was an assembly for the JK to Grade 3 children.  It was fantastic.

The puppeteers were awesome and they were able to tailor it towards some of Sophie's disabilities.  For example one of the puppets was in a wheelchair because he had CP.  They explained through the puppets that some children can manouvre their own wheelchair and some need to be pushed because their muscles don't work the same as others. 

They talked a lot about inclusion and how it feels to be the one that is left out.  To stand up for your classmates if you hear them being bullied.  They talked about how children with disabilities have many abilities, that they may love swimming or horsebackriding just like other children.

The children at the school seemed to love it, they asked so many questions during the show when each skit was done and you could tell they had really listened to the message being given.  They gave thoughtful insights and wanted to know more. 

Sophie listened quite intently throughout the performance as well.  She was very focused on the puppets and was quite taken with them!  One of her classmates sat beside her while they watched and held Sophie's hand for most of the performance, it was very cute.  

After the show the ladies from Kids on the Block talked with Sophie and I and we were able to get some more photos.  It was such a great experience and we are so thankful that Kids on the Block is out there to spread the message that inclusion is something that everyone deserves.