Meet Amanda Russell

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amanda Russell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amanda below.

Amanda, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I found my purpose through my son, who has severe autism. Watching him navigate a world that often doesn’t understand or accommodate his needs opened my eyes to the importance of teaching others how to connect with children like him. I saw a need for tools that could guide children in building relationships with their friends who have special needs—tools that emphasize patience, understanding, and the beauty of inclusion.

This realization inspired me to write my books. Through them, I aim to teach the art of joining and inclusion, showing children how to bridge the gap and form meaningful connections with their peers who might communicate, think, or play differently. My hope is to create a generation of children who grow up embracing diversity with kindness and compassion, and my books are a step toward making that dream a reality.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am passionate about engaging with children and introducing them to the world of special needs in a way that fosters understanding, patience, and inclusion. Through my children’s book series, I aim to create tools that help young readers connect with friends and peers who may think, communicate, or play differently.

I visit schools to read my books, Jacob Learns to Fly and Jacob Loves Puddles, and I love the opportunity to interact with students during these sessions. We discuss the stories, explore the themes of inclusion and understanding, and I answer their thoughtful questions about special needs. These interactions are incredibly special to me because I see firsthand how kids are eager to learn, connect, and grow.

I’m thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my third book, Blaze Needs Berries, in March 2025. This book focuses on special diets and is especially relevant to children with allergies, sensitivities, or alternative dietary needs. Each book in my series reflects my goal of teaching children the art of joining and inclusion, creating a more compassionate and understanding world.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were patience, a deep sense of purpose, and a willingness to learn.

Patience was essential as I navigated the complexities of understanding and connecting with my son, who has severe autism. It allowed me to approach challenges with compassion and perseverance, even when progress felt slow. My sense of purpose—creating a better world for my son and others like him—kept me motivated and focused on making a meaningful impact. Finally, my eagerness to learn played a significant role. I immersed myself in his therapy sessions, determined to understand his world and find ways to connect with him more deeply.

For those just beginning their journey, my advice is to embrace patience and give yourself grace—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Stay connected to your purpose and let it guide you, especially during tough times. Most importantly, never stop learning. Dive into every opportunity to gain knowledge, whether through books, therapy sessions, or conversations with others who have similar experiences. Growth comes from curiosity and an open heart, and these will carry you far on your journey.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

My ideal client is truly anyone who values understanding, inclusion, and connection. Our books are designed to resonate with people of all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. While they are often used to teach elementary schoolers about special needs, the lessons go far beyond the classroom.

I’ve had adults tell me that they’ve learned valuable strategies from my books and applied them in real-life situations when they encountered someone with special needs. That’s what makes these books so special—they’re not just for children. They teach universal life lessons about patience, compassion, and embracing diversity, which are relevant at any stage of life.

Whether you’re a parent teaching your child about inclusion, an educator fostering empathy in the classroom, or someone looking to better understand and connect with others, my books are a resource for everyone. If you’re someone who values creating a kinder, more inclusive world, you’re the ideal client for our mission!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.karingkritters.com
• Instagram: Karing_Kritters
• Facebook: Karing Kritters
• Linkedin: Amanda Russell

Image Credits

Teresa Hnat