Book teaches children about abilities of those who are blind

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Author Michelle Friedman is trying to bring her book, "Close Your Eyes," to life by teaching local kids about some of the abilities of people who are blind.

Friedman starting losing her sight when she was just 8-years-old. She became legally blind when she was 35, but that hasn't stopped her from making ceramics, riding horses or even learning to ski. She is now working to teach children to be more accepting of those who are "differently-abled."

First-graders at Gems World Academy are experiencing what it's like to be blind.

"When you do more of the hands-on stuff and they get to feel the cane and they get to see a braille book and wear the blindfold, I know they're going to be engaged because they are interested and curious and they have open minds," Friedman said.

It's an introduction to Friedman's world. Her book is about a little girl who is blind and shows her friends all the activities she can do.

"Books are always a great way to start a conversation with kids about people with disabilities, people with blindness, teachers to start reading the book to kids and start a conversation and hopefully have me come in to speak to them and do some disability awareness," Friedman said.

After being taunted as a child, Friedman wants other children to learn empathy and respect.

"People that are blind, sometimes they have trouble moving and stuff cause they because they don't want to like bump into stuff, but sometimes they do," said Penelope, a first grade student.

"Ask them do they need help and if they do then help them in a way that will help them instead of hinder them," said Jovani Gonzalez, a first grade student.

Friedman's visit is part of a series of lessons the students are getting to learn about disability and accessibility issues around Chicago.

"I thought, let's bring this kind of open-mindedness to some of our youngest learners when they're starting to shape their notions about how the world is and how we should be treating other people," said Joel Blecha, Gems World Academy teacher.

Friedman says she also wrote the book so that disabled children could have a possible role model. She points out there are very few books or television shows where a person with a disability is the main character.

To see where you can purchase her book or how to invite her to come to your school, visit http://michellewrites4kids.com. The book is also available through Amazon and AbbotPress.com.

GEMS World Academy Chicago: http://www.gemsworldacademy-chicago.com/page