When Amy McCoy noticed her daughter feeling hesitant to invite friends over because they didn’t understand her older brother’s autism, she knew she wanted to create a story that could bridge that gap. The result was “Little Big Sister,” a children’s book aimed at helping kids understand and embrace differences.
McCoy, a former elementary school teacher and Garden City resident, visited all three North Merrick schools on Dec. 4 through the North Merrick SEPTA to share her book and discuss the importance of inclusivity and empathy with students. The story, told from the perspective of Katie, the younger sister of a child with autism, explores the challenges and triumphs of growing up alongside a sibling with a disability.
“I wanted to tell it from my daughter’s point of view because in many families, the siblings of children with disabilities often get overlooked,” McCoy told the Herald in a phone interview. “I felt it would be important to highlight their experiences and help them feel less alone.”
“Little Big Sister” is written at a third-grade reading level and aims to reach multiple audiences: siblings of children with disabilities, students with no prior exposure to disabilities, teachers looking for classroom discussion tools, and families navigating similar experiences. McCoy has since published a sequel, “Little Big Sister on the Move,” and a prequel picture book, “Katie Finds Her Voice”, for younger readers in grades K-2. A third book in the series is currently in development.
During her school visits, McCoy uses photographs and stories from her own son’s life to explain autism in ways children can understand. She gives examples of his specific interests and routines, helping students grasp the unique perspectives of peers with disabilities. Her presentations also focus on promoting social-emotional learning and encouraging children to embrace differences among their classmates.
Visiting North Merrick schools was especially meaningful for McCoy, who had previously visited the district in 2018.
“It was really an honor to be asked to return after several years,” she said. “It shows how dedicated the district is to creating inclusive environments for students and making sure they understand their peers who are different from them.”
Nattie Martin, a Merrick resident and advocate for autism acceptance, said McCoy’s visit and work are especially impactful.
“Just hearing that really makes me feel great, knowing that these kids at the young age that they’re at will learn to be more kind and accepting people,” Martin said. “Just because someone’s different, it’s something beautiful and to be celebrated. I’m really glad local school districts have taken notice that autistic people exist, and their stories deserve to be told. I hope other districts, both on Long Island and beyond, catch on to that.”
McCoy hopes her books and presentations will encourage children to recognize and celebrate differences, fostering more inclusive school communities.
“Third grade is the time when students really start noticing the differences in their peers,” she said. “The more they understand, the better they can make their school communities and communities as a whole.”
