Why are children confused when they meet a child with a disability?
Introducing Joyfully Josie, a heartwarming children's book about a little girl named Josie who has a rare disease called FOXG1 syndrome that causes disabilities.
Despite her many challenges, Josie's joy lights up the world around her. Through her experiences, Josie teaches about inclusion and encourages children to feel comfortable asking questions about children who look different.
Parents will love having a safe and joyful way of helping their children understand what might be new and confusing to them. Joyfully Josie gives parents the tools to teach their children how to embrace and include children with disabilities. Children will be inspired by Josie's positivity and encouraged to approach their own challenges with resilience and optimism.
Ideal for young readers and read-alouds with young children and their families, Joyfully Josie is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. Come discover the joy of Josie and learn about the incredible strength and resilience of those who live with disabilities and rare diseases.
Profits from the sales of all Joyfully Josie books go to support the FOXG1 Research Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity. The foundation was created to help educate, support families with children who have disabilities and more.

Nicole Zeitzer Johnson is on a mission to help children understand disabilities, medical complexities, and the importance of inclusion. Nicole's "Joyfully Josie" book series draws inspiration from her daughter, Josie, who was born with a rare neurological genetic disorder called FOXG1 syndrome, which causes many disabilities. Nicole observed that young children often seem afraid and uncomfortable when meeting Josie. This realization motivated Nicole to create tools for parents and educators to guide children towards understanding, empathy, and inclusion. The "Joyfully Josie" series aims to turn these moments of unfamiliarity into joyful experiences.In 2017, Nicole co-founded the FOXG1 Research Foundation, which is accelerating research to find a cure for FOXG1 syndrome and related disorders, including Autism. The foundation has risen rapidly in prominence, partnering with the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.Before becoming a champion for rare diseases and disabilities, Nicole was a television producer and co-founded the streaming music service, Qello Concerts, collaborating with top musicians and celebrities. Today, she's a vocal advocate, speaking to audiences about disability inclusion and her personal journey as a mother in search of a cure. Nicole resides in New York with her husband, Richard, their son, Tanner, and Josie.