Cooper Wants to Help With Chores

'Stories are magic. Good stories change lives and culture. ’Finding My Way Books’ are spectacular resources that feature youth and adults, living inclusive lives...'. -Jack Pearpoint, Executive Director Inclusion Press; Marsha Forest Centre

In Cooper Wants to Help with Chores, a young boy with physical disabilities defies all stereotypes as he helps his family take care of the animals on their farm. It’s amazing to see what he dares to do and how much he helps. He helps care for their dog, cat, and sheep. He even jumps down a hay hole!!! 

Boom! Cooper’s brother Weston pushes a bale of hay off a huge pile of bales. Cooper and his mom are waiting below to tear it apart so they can feed it to the sheep. Later, kittens pop out of the hay and are ready to play.

It’s exciting to discover what happens next during routine chores in Cooper’s family barn. Cooper is delightful as he shares his enthusiasm for helping and doesn’t hesitate to be included.

By sharing Cooper’s story, we celebrate Cooper’s many strengths and abilities. Cooper has arthrogryposis and TAR syndrome.

'A great book for both children and families both. In a family with a working farm, this true story demonstrates how each person has a job to do and everyone is needed for success. Teachers can use this with their classroom to help show that everyone has strengths and can participate. Families may benefit by thinking about how their child with a disability can actively participate in everyday activities in their home. Beautiful!'-Lori Eigenman, Ed.S

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'I feel these books about real children and real places would fit quite well in a Montessori setting. Maria Montessori suggested reading books that are reality-based for the 3-5 age group. They first need a foundation of real-life before they can begin the use their imagination.'- Cathy Brennan, Director of Discovery School