Author

My name is Kelly Leslie and I am a retired Principal with 30+ years of experience in the field of education. During that time, I developed an affinity for children with special needs and continue to strive to highlight the importance of recognizing all our strengths. To that end, in my retirement, a valued colleague-friend and I co-created an organization entitled Believe Beyond Bounds to showcase children and young adults with special needs.

In a further attempt to continue to impact young children, I have created some children picture books. I believe it's never too early to teach our children about differences, acceptance, kindness and inclusion. It is this belief that inspired me to create the Hannah Series and the Bruno Series; picture books for children aged 4-8. It is my hope to focus on the incredible strengths showcased by children with special needs and through this, continue to support all children, as well as provide resources for both parents and educators.

Most recently I have had the absolute pleasure of co-authoring a SEL (social emotional learning) curriculum resource for K-3 teachers with Joyce Tam. We have developed an easy-to-use resource that incorporates all 6 of the picture books with a focus on (positive) Differences, Acceptance, Kindness, and Inclusion - The DAKI. It is our hope to support educators in facilitating social emotional growth in the classroom. To help create a climate where students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of self, while supporting one another in a collaborative learning environment.

I have also published my first YA novel, Chances Are... I am looking for a readership group as a sort of posse to provide constructive feedback on this, and possibly future, novels. Please contact me if interested.