February 19, 2018 10:00 A.M.  Accessibility Directorate of Ontario

Ontario has partnered with the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) to publish an educational book series for children that focuses on acceptance and celebrating individuality.

The three-book series features characters with diverse talents and strengths, like Felicia McCan, a creative, energetic 12-year-old who wins over students at her new school and shows them how her magnification reading tool works. The series was authored by Carolyn MacDiarmid, a former preschool teacher with low vision whose writing is informed by her own experiences.

Public libraries and elementary schools across the province can order copies of the books for free through Publications Ontario. Print, digital, accessible and braille versions are available in English and French.
Increased representation of people with disabilities will help foster inclusion in our communities - from school age to the workplace. By ensuring people with disabilities are part of the story, Ontario is working to support the development and employment goals of all Ontario's youth, regardless of their disability.

Helping all youth succeed is part of Ontario's plan to create fairness and opportunity during this period of rapid economic change. The plan includes a higher minimum wage and better working conditions, free tuition for hundreds of thousands of students, easier access to affordable child care, and free prescription drugs for everyone under 25 through the biggest expansion of medicare in a generation.

Quick Facts
Ontario invested a total of $250,000 to develop the three-book series through the Ontario150 Program.
As part of Access Talent’s: Ontario’s Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities, the book series will help support and inspire youth and students with disabilities to achieve their full potential.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act has made Ontario an accessibility leader, establishing standards in key areas of daily life and implementing them within clear timeframes.

Quotes

“Just in time for Family Day, this book series highlights the value of a diverse society through stories that challenge stereotypes, showcase positive attitudes and celebrate individuality. Promoting greater acceptance and inclusion for young people with disabilities to the next generation will help us build a more accessible Ontario today and tomorrow.”
Tracy MacCharles
Minister Responsible for Accessibility

“CCRW is proud to be part of this creative series of books, promoting inclusive environments for all people and abilities, while shifting the landscape in Ontario and Canada one mind at a time.”
Maureen Haan
President and CEO, Canadian Council for Rehabilitation and Work

“Childhood is a peak period for learning; the body, including the mind, is growing rapidly. These books will help children to develop inclusive and fair attitudes. Children will learn to see magic, potential, and possibility in others rather than limitations.”
Carolyn MacDiarmid
Author