Q: What inspired you to write Harvey’s Silent Discovery?
Honestly, it all began with my kids, especially my son. He’s non-verbal and autistic, and he’s the most friendly, loving child you could ever meet. But so often, I see people of all ages, even adults, unsure of how to interact with him and seemingly lacking the understanding that although he’s non verbal he can hear and fully understand and he has a lot to share. They just don’t know what to say or how to include him, and it’s heartbreaking to see because he has so much to offer the world.
That’s where the idea for Harvey’s Silent Discovery and the workshops came from. I wanted to create something that would help children learn how to interact with non-verbal peers like my son from a young age. By introducing these ideas early, children can grow up understanding how to connect with those who communicate differently, creating a more inclusive and compassionate society. The book is the first step in helping to tell Harvey’s story and open children’s minds and the workshops are the next step, where they can actively learn and practice these skills.
Q: Can you tell us more about the workshops and lesson plans?
The workshops are really the heart of this project. They’re fun, interactive, and completely unique, but they’re also designed to teach essential non-verbal communication skills that will stay with children for life. Kids will engage in creative activities that encourage teamwork and empathy, helping them understand how to communicate with non-verbal peers in ways that feel natural and supportive.
I’m also developing lesson plans for schools, which build on the story and immediately give teachers the tools to help children develop non-verbal communication skills in the classroom. These aren’t just for understanding peers with autism who may be non-verbal but also for supporting children with limited communication, language barriers, or even those who are simply shy. The aim is to create classrooms where everyone feels included and children learn to connect with one another in meaningful ways.
Q: What’s next for you and Harvey’s Silent Discovery?
Right now, I’m focusing on getting the funding needed to provide the workshops for free, making sure they reach as many children as possible. But I’m also working on the future books in the Hidden Heroes series, which will cover other hidden disabilities. Each book will come with its own set of fun, interactive workshops and lesson plans, just like Harvey’s Silent Discovery.
The goal is to help children understand and appreciate the different challenges their peers might face and to equip them with the tools to support one another. Whether it’s through art, play, or storytelling, I want to inspire children to embrace their creativity while learning skills that will help them build a kinder, more inclusive world. This is more than a series of books, it’s a movement to create lasting change, one child at a time.
If one child walks away from a workshop or lesson and, years down the line, remembers the skills they learned to help a non-verbal peer or someone facing communication barriers, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference. That’s all I can hope for!
Purchase the book or sign up to receive more news about the lesson plans and workshops directly on the Beyond Words Creative Website
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