They're Just Kids

Visiting with children's parents, friends, teachers and peer tutors, who share their feelings and apprehensions, They're Just Kids profiles four special needs children, ranging in age from preschool to high school, that have been integrated into a "regular" classroom environment. The title derives from the fact that once teachers and students got to know the children, they realized that, in many respects, the special needs children were just regular kids who feel joy and pain much like their peers and who also make valuable contributions in class. Since people fear the unfamiliar, this program wisely focuses on helping viewers become familiar with special needs children and some of the challenges they face, as well as pointing out the many benefits that accrue from special needs friends. An excellent ice-breaker for introducing parents and children to some of the social needs of challenged kids, while also helping to increase public awareness of why classroom and societal integration is so important, this stirring film is recommended. Aud: E, I, J, H, C, P. (L. Stevens)