Can we play with you?

Maverick and his friends were excited for recess. They loved playing tag and swinging on the swings. But today, something felt different.

As soon as they reached the playground, some kids started whispering and pointing at Maverick's friends. They didn't look happy. Maverick felt worried.

A group of kids came up to them and said mean things. They told Maverick's friends that they couldn't play with them because they were different.

Maverick knew this wasn't right. He told the other kids that his friends were just like them, and they deserved to play together. But the kids didn't listen.

Maverick felt upset, so he decided to talk to his teachers. He told them what happened at recess and asked if they could help make the playground more inclusive for everyone.

Maverick's teachers were very understanding. They talked to the principal and other teachers, and together they came up with a plan to make the playground a place where everyone could play and have fun.

After a few weeks, the playground had a new swing that could accommodate Maverick's friend in a wheelchair, and there were also sensory play areas for his friend with Down syndrome. Everyone was so excited to try out the new equipment!

Now, all the kids could play together and have fun. Maverick was happy that he had spoken up, and his friends were overjoyed to be included. They all learned that being different is what makes each of them special.