Dad and Me in the Morning (2003)

Dad and Me in the Morning

Written by Patricia & Pat Lakin

Illustrated by Robert G. Steele

Patricia and Pat Lakin’s (2003) Dad and Me in the Morning is a story about a young boy, Jacob, who wakes his father to watch the sunrise over the nearby lake.  After reading this book and following the criteria put forth by the Ontario Coalition for Inclusive Education, I have come to the conclusion that this is an inclusive book that should definitely be found on the shelf of every classroom library!  

1. What is the focus of the book? 

The focus of the book is not on Jacob's disability.  Although Jacob’s hearing aid is shown throughout the story, it is very subtle and one must look at illustrations really close to even notice it.  His hearing impairment has nothing to do with the storyline.  In fact, the story could be told the same way even if Jacob did not have a disability!  

2. Are all of the settings in the book inclusive? 

Yes. Through illustrations, one can see Jacob on the beach happily communicating with his father through sign language and using his various senses to enjoy the sunrise.  

3. Are characters portrayed in valued roles - as active and contributing individuals?  

Yes. Jacob demonstrates the typical role of a little boy by being anxious to see the sunrise and exploring all that there is to see, smell, and feel at the beach.  

4. If labels and terminology are used, are they contemporary and empowering? 

There are no labels or disability-related terminology used in the text.  

Overall, I would definitely consider Patricia and Pat Lakin’s (2003) Dad and Me in the Morning an inclusive book.  As I researched this book online, I discovered that the Ontario Coalition for Inclusive Education considers this book one of their "fab four of inclusive picture books."  Look out for my next blogs to read about the other three books!