Welcoming Elaine Armstrong to the ReadAbilities Family!

When Elaine moved to Ottawa, she began teaching private piano lessons to children aged four and up. Over the years, she noticed that many of her students were struggling with anxiety, carrying worries far heavier than any child should have to bear. Often, a piano lesson would gently turn into a heartfelt conversation.

As Elaine listened to the children share their fears, she was inspired to start writing stories to help them navigate the complex world around them.

Four years ago, Elaine’s mother was diagnosed with dementia. As the disease progressed, Elaine found herself grieving the gradual loss of her mother’s memories. In her own sadness, she began to wonder: How does a child experience a grandparent forgetting who they are?

Elaine writes for children who feel equally lost, helping them process big, confusing emotions. Through her stories, she hopes young readers will discover that they are never alone, and that every single one of their feelings is valid.

Today, we are incredibly proud to announce that Elaine is joining the ReadAbilities family! She is currently working on an upcoming picture book tailored for Grade 2-3 readers, beautifully exploring Alzheimer’s disease and the profound effect it has on the loved ones around them.