Harvey and the Wheelchair Race
Harvey bounded into school ready for outdoor playtime. Today was Obstacle Course Day,
and he’d been practicing his leaps and zigzags all morning. On the playground, he saw a new student, Theo, sitting in a shiny blue wheelchair. Theo waved shyly.
“I’m Harvey! Want to do the obstacle course with me?” Harvey asked.
Theo smiled. “I want to… but I’m not sure I can. My wheelchair doesn’t go over bumps very well.”
Harvey tilted his head. “Hmm… can we change the course so it works for both of us?”
Their teacher, Ms. Lee, overheard.
“That’s a great idea, Harvey. Let’s make a course everyone can use.”
The class gathered as Ms. Lee adjusted cones, smoothed the ground,
and created two paths—one twisty and one smooth.
“This course is for running, jumping, rolling, or wheeling,” she said.
“Everyone chooses what works for them.”
Harvey lined up next to Theo.
“Want me to push your chair?” he offered.
Theo shook his head. “Thanks, but I can roll myself. Just cheer for me, okay?”
Ms. Lee blew her whistle.
“GO!”
Harvey dashed down the twisty path.
Theo rolled down the smooth path—whirrrrr!—his wheels catching the sun.
They reached the finish at the same time and high‑fived.
“Your chair is fast!” Harvey said.
Theo grinned. “It helps me get around.”
At bedtime that night, Harvey said,
“Some friends walk. Some friends roll. But we can all play together.”
Talk About It
People move through the world in different ways—and all of them are okay.
- What are some different ways people get around?
- How can we be kind and respectful to someone who uses a wheelchair?
- What can you do if you’re not sure how to help or include someone?
A Note for Parents and Caregivers
Children are naturally curious about differences. Honest, simple conversations help normalize disability and reinforce that mobility tools—like wheelchairs—support independence, not limitations.
This story introduces mobility limitations and wheelchair use in an empowering, positive way.
Key messages:
- A wheelchair helps someone move—it doesn’t limit friendship or fun.
- Children shouldn’t assume someone needs help; they should ask.
- Inclusion means adapting activities so everyone can participate. Inclusion helps everyone.