Alone on a swing, a little girl watches as other children play games around her. Longing to make friends but not knowing how, she swings with her arms stretched wide while the other children stop and stare. She loves the feeling of freedom that comes with swinging and spinning, but the other children don't understand. When a little boy asks her to play, she gains the confidence to join in, and before long, she is teaching them all a valuable lesson on acceptance and the true meaning of friendship.
Underscoring the value of human connection, The Girl on the Swing centers on the importance of playtime in childhood for fostering relationships and social acceptance. Blending elements of joy, wonder, and vulnerability, author Sandy Adrien draws from her own experiences working with autistic individuals to highlight life's small victories and encourage empathy and inclusivity among young readers. Targeting children ages four to eight, the book promotes better understanding and will resonate with children who have a personal connection to autism, be it a family member, friend, or classmate. And for those who are not yet familiar with autism and spectrum disorders, the book serves a unique resource for helping children to appreciate the challenges faced by individuals with autism while also teaching them to embrace differences and be kind to others. Stay tuned for more captivating adventures on how to make a difference in the lives of others!
