Kathryn C. Aldridge
The Boy Who Would Be a Helicopter: The Uses of Storytelling in the Classroom
by Vivian Gussin Paley
As an Early Childhood educator, I have a strong commitment to the inclusion of children with disabilities in the same classrooms with children who are typically developing. I believe that both populations benefit from the experiences and the relationships that are supported in inclusive settings. As the mother of three children, two of whom are typically developing and hearing and one who is deaf, I have been able to appreciate the value of inclusion from a personal perspective as well. In addition to the academic advantage of inclusion is the incredible social opportunity that is afforded to the children. In The Boy Who Would Be a Helicopter, the author candidly discusses her journey and insights as a teacher in a preschool classroom as she struggles to ensure inclusion and acceptance of a child with a disability through dramatic play and storytelling. Paley's message is clear. Inclusion is not only possible, it is critically important for all of our children as they learn to be a part of their culture and society.