Those Kids are OUR Kids

Book excerpt: Based on a true story of trauma, Heidy LaFleur shares that kids who have been traumatized, those who are misunderstood and those who take frequent detours from what's expected need compassionate, empathetic and loving adults supporting them.Often, as educators & parents, we receive little guidance when working with special needs, distracted kids, mental illness, emotional stress, behavioral deficiencies, trauma and dysregulated children. Heidy hears you, she's got you & she will help you. This book was created for you...the teacher, mentor, parent, social worker, counselor, occupational therapist, speech therapist, physical therapist, media specialist, librarian, paraprofessional, security guard, administrator, dean, custodian, lunch staff, office staff and any other title that influences kids on a daily basis. As a teacher, assistant principal, principal and mother Heidy has had the distinct pleasure of working with some of the most unforgettable teachers and providers in the school community. They all had several things in common. Kids loved them, gravitated to them and would do anything for them. They always had a smile on their faces (even on a bad day), were a part of every solution and enjoyed their interactions with all kids, even Those Kids. They sought out students' interests, planned according to their needs and celebrated their accomplishments. They instilled hope, love and kindness in the classroom. They raised scores and grew students academically and socially because they cared first about relationships and second about rigor of the curriculum. Their Actions, Words and Expressions (AWE) put air in kids' balloons and helped them soar. Building a strong environment with a foundation of social emotional well-being is what helps kids know they matter. For what we model for children is what they will produce. They get one chance and we get to help shape their stories. What a beautiful opportunity.