This is Ella: A Story of Inclusion

On World Down Syndrome Day I want to share a story about inclusion, not just for those who have Down Syndrome but those who find themselves different. I want to talk about “This is Ella”.

‘This is Ella’ is a book written by a Canadian mom Krista Ewert from ‘One Beautiful Life‘. Krista herself is a sweet, soft-spoken woman who is also a strong, mama bear advocating ferociously for her daughter Ella to get the same opportunities as other children. When it was time for Ella to go to kindergarten Krista opted to put her into a large French Immersion school that had few children with Special Needs and even less with cognitive delays. Although Ella is more similar than different than other children her age even the youngest of people could tell that Ella was different.

‘This is Ella’ was created to educate teachers, parents, and students about inclusion and the belief that children with Down Syndrome are just like regular children. It is an easy read and one that will easily open up the hard conversations with your own children. When Krista wrote the book it was specifically for her daughter and those around her although through the years it has been often recommended within the community as a resource for other parents.

Now Krista took on the task of turning ‘This is Ella’ into an open resource that would be in every classroom and home.  In order to get the ball rolling, she has started a Kickstarter campaign. She needs to raise $8000 which will be used for the cost of illustrations (approx. $3500), publishing and first run (approx. $2000) and promotion and shipping (approx. $2500). It is all or nothing. If she does not raise the money then everyone will get their donations back and we will all lose out on an amazing resource.

Each donation will come with a special ‘perk’ so please donate if you can and share to get the word out.

Fundraise ‘This is Ella’

Aneta Alaei

Aneta is a Toronto-based mom of four that loves a good meal, great company, and learning something new. In her free time, you can find her trying to keep yet another plant alive.

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