Hello, my name is Sharon Maynard, M.S., SLP, TSSLD. I am a neurodivergent speech-language pathologist who has spent over 12 years supporting children and families in New York City schools. As both a professional and a parent, I know how important it is for children—especially those in the special education community—to see themselves represented in the materials we place in their hands.

Why This Matters:

Too often, the voices of disabled and neurodivergent people are overlooked or silenced. The books, stories, and learning materials available in schools don’t reflect the diversity of the students who use them. Representation isn’t just important—it’s transformative.

That’s why I’ve been creating a collection of inclusive books and digital resources designed specifically for children in special education settings. These materials are not only engaging and supportive, but they are also designed to enhance quality of life, build confidence, and celebrate diversity in all its forms.

What’s Holding Me Back:

The content is written and developed, but I’ve reached a stall point: production. To ensure these resources are polished and widely accessible, I need help covering essential costs like:

Professional illustrations – bringing characters to life with diversity and inclusion at the center

ISBNs and Copyrights – protecting and publishing my work properly

Website + Hosting – a platform for families and educators to access materials

Book + Digital Production Fees – preparing for distribution and sales

My Goal:

I am seeking $10,000 to bring this vision to life. Every contribution will go directly toward production and launch.

Why Your Support Matters:

Your donation will help create resources that:

✔️ Give children in special education classrooms tools that truly reflect who they are

✔️ Support teachers, parents, and therapists with inclusive materials

✔️ Make sure neurodivergent and disabled children feel seen, heard, and valued

This isn’t just about books—it’s about representation, dignity, and empowerment.

How You Can Help:

1. Donate – every contribution, big or small, helps us move forward.

2. Share – please pass this campaign along to friends, colleagues, and communities who believe in equity and inclusion.

3. Stay Connected – I’ll post updates as funds are used, including behind-the-scenes looks at illustrations, production progress, and release dates.

As a neurodivergent therapist, I know firsthand how powerful it is when children finally see themselves reflected in the stories they read and the lessons they learn. With your help, I can make that representation a reality for countless families.

Thank you for believing in this mission. Together, we can create resources that change lives.

With gratitude,

Sharon Maynard, M.S., SLP, TSSLD