Author shares tale of inclusivity at Camp Avenue School

An author’s visit at Camp Avenue Elementary School in the North Merrick School District on Dec. 4 shed light on the importance of embracing inclusivity and diversity.

Amy McCoy, author of the children’s book “Little Big Sister,” visited all three North Merrick schools thanks to the North Merrick SEPTA. Reflecting her personal life story, Mrs. McCoy’s book is told from the point of view of her daughter, named Katie in the story, who grows up as the younger sister to her brother, Mikey, who has autism. Katie, along with friends, helps her schoolmates understand the intricacies and difficulties of living with a disability and cultivate a more welcoming and empathetic environment. Speaking with students, Mrs. McCoy promoted social emotional learning as she shared her experience and walked them through the writing process. Students were guided to have a deeper understanding of peers who have disabilities.