My Grampy Can't Walk

Author: Vanita Oelschlager
Illustrators: Robin Hegan and Kristin Blackwood


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Lesson Plan Guide!


Summary: "My Grampy Can't Walk" is a children's book written for children who are in kindergarten through third grade. The story is about Grampy who has Multiple Sclerosis and is wheelchair bound due to his disability. Additionally, the story is told through the lens of his grandchildren and shows the great relationship they have together even though he is disabled.

Throughout the story the author highlights the many stunning things Grampy does with his grandchildren. The great love and respect the grandchildren have for their Grampy is also apparent throughout the story as well. This book is very moving because Grampy really embraces his disability.

Respect for others: "My Grampy Can't Walk" is a great book that can be used in the classroom to help foster respect for others. This book provides a better understanding about people with a disability for children. Element two is really represented in this book because the author depicts that if someone has a disability they may be different but they still have dignity, and deserve to be loved and respected. Furthermore, the book shows children that even though having a disability can be difficult you can still have respect for yourself and live a great life.

Activity: This book would be appropriate to use for an activity on "Respect for others". I would first gather with my students on our classroom rug and read the book aloud. Then I would ask my students to explain what the story was about. Next I would allow time for some questions and speak about people with disabilities. After this I would let the students each talk about someone they know with a disability. During this time they would also share with the class one thing they love about that person. Afterword we would talk about the importance of respect for others and ourselves regardless of what disabilities one may or may not have. To conclude this activity each student would draw a picture of the person they spoke about and include what they love about them.