The Colorful Kids

Coops party

‘My son had never been invited to a birthday party before. I hope you know how much this means to us.’

Yesterday, we had a birthday party for our son Cooper. And we invited his friends. The kids we have met along the way. The ones who don’t necessarily talk or play sports or fit in the norm.

Our kids. The colorful kids.

At one point, a mama said to me…’we might not make it into the party room. He might not go.’
My response…‘that’s ok. You never have to apologize for anything with us. Because we understand.’
Here’s what you need to know.
These kids. The kids in other classrooms at school. The ones who are different. Who look different or act different…
They are absolutely amazing. And not because they have a disability. And not out of pity. But because they are funny, and smart, and friendly, and silly, and adorable.

Because they are kids.

If you’ve never met anyone like my son (or these kids), you’re missing out. Discover the gift of knowing someone who has special needs, or a disability, or who is different.
Do it today. I promise you pity will vanish from your vocabulary. And it will be exchanged with joy, resilience, and triumph. (an excerpt from my book, Forever Boy)
‘Miss Kate! Will you ride the elevator with me! Just me! It will be the best!’

It’s a color I can’t describe. It’s bright and dark at the same time. It’s happy and sad and exactly the color it should be.

And I can say with conviction and certainty, I am so grateful that I get to see it. Because not everyone does. They overlook the color of these kids.
Not me.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.
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Kate Swenson

Kate Swenson lives in Minnesota with her husband Jamie, and four children, Cooper, Sawyer, Harbor and Wynnie. Kate launched Finding Cooper's Voice from her couch while her now 11-year-old son Cooper was being diagnosed with autism. Back then it was a place to write. Today it is a living, thriving community of people who want to not only advocate for autism, but also make the world a better place for individuals with disabilities and their families. Her first book, Forever Boy, will be released, April 5, 2022.

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