Maverick is a biracial little boy in elementary school, one of his friends has Down syndrome, the other is in a wheelchair. When they go out for recess the kids on the playground are very mean to them and would not let them play. 
Maverick told them they were not different than they were. 
Maverick wants a playground that’s for everyone he asks his teachers for help. 

Can we play with you? 

Maverick with a look of anticipation, surrounded by swings and slides in the background.

Maverick and his friends were excited for recess. They loved playing tag and swinging on the swings. But today, something felt different.

Recess Time

Maverick with a worried expression, playground in the background and kids whispering.

As soon as they reached the playground, some kids started whispering and pointing at Maverick's friends. They didn't look happy. Maverick felt worried.

Exclusion

Maverick standing with a sad face as a group of kids say mean things.

A group of kids came up to them and said mean things. They told Maverick's friends that they couldn't play with them because they were different. 

Unkind Words

Maverick speaking earnestly to the other kids, trying to defend his friends, playground in the background.

Maverick knew this wasn't right. He told the other kids that his friends were just like them, and they deserved to play together. But the kids didn't listen.

Standing Up

Maverick talking to a teacher with a concerned look, classroom setting.

Maverick felt upset, so he decided to talk to his teachers. He told them what happened at recess and asked if they could help make the playground more inclusive for everyone.

Seeking Help

Maverick listening to his teachers, who are planning inclusively, school meeting room.

Maverick's teachers were very understanding. They talked to the principal and other teachers, and together they came up with a plan to make the playground a place where everyone could play and have fun.

A Plan in Motion

An empty new swing designed for wheelchair access, and sensory play areas in the playground.

After a few weeks, the playground had a new swing that could accommodate Maverick's friend in a wheelchair, and there were also sensory play areas for his friend with Down syndrome. Everyone was so excited to try out the new equipment!

A New Playground

Maverick smiling brightly, surrounded by children of all abilities playing together on the new playground equipment.

Now, all the kids could play together and have fun. Maverick was happy that he had spoken up, and his friends were overjoyed to be included. They all learned that being different is what makes each of them special.