In celebration of Autism Awareness and Acceptance month, students at the Pelham Bay Early Childhood Center, Riverdale Early Childhood Center and Soundview Early Childhood Center were surprised by a special guest reader.
Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul read the book “My Brother Charlie,” by actress Holly Robinson Peete — a heartwarming story based on Holly’s son, who has autism.
Students also participated in art contests and took the “Kindness Pledge” as a reminder to treat others and themselves with respect. The Kindness Pledge reads:
“I promise to be kind on this very day. To show all acts of kindness, in a special way. To friends I know both big and small, I will catch them if they fall. To those that need a helping hand, I will guide them when I can. I promise to say ‘thank you’, ‘excuse me now’ and ‘please’. These three words will show my kindness, even when I sneeze! If I love myself, then I can show to others, that love begins with kindness, for all of my sisters and brothers.”
Throughout the month, students welcomed several real-life superheroes for special readings, including employees of Pfizer and Birch Family Services alumni.
Every April, Birch Family Services joins advocates from around the world in celebrating Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month. The month is focused on sharing stories, providing opportunities to increase understanding, inclusion and acceptance of people with autism and fostering worldwide support.
