Glass Child

"Glass child" is a term that floats around society referring to the siblings of children with disabilities. There are up to 17 million glass children in the United States (exact numbers are hard to find). Although there can be negative mental health effects on these siblings from the worry about their siblings, research also shows that these kids are more empathetic, attuned to others, and can come up with appropriate compromises in the face of conflict. These kids are often observers, thinkers, and problem solvers- much like Colden.

AIM and our inclusive playground project actually started because of Colden. As we were pulling out of the parking lot on the third day of school when he was in first grade, he said, "Mom, did you know there isn't anything on the playground a kid in a wheelchair could use? Actually, there is one swing but they wouldn't be able to get to it." I told him that maybe we could do something about that someday and we drove home talking about dreamy playgrounds.

Fast forward to second grade and he and his classmates made rainbow loom bracelets and sold them for $2 each. They raised over $1000 and donated it to AIM- the nonprofit that grew from Colden's idea. This spurred the third graders to create their own sale, raising another $300. I can't wait for them to see how their teamwork, compassion, and dedication did something extraordinary.

He's now in third grade and we're well on our way to a new playground. We've been awarded grants, received direct donations, and are fundraising as fast as we can. All for a playground that he dreamed up and believed was achievable.

I'm so proud of who he is, how he cares about others, his ability to take on a challenge, and his unwavering determination. I love the way he is brave enough to have big dreams and audacious goals. Having a front row seat to all of his ideas is such a delight!