Our Hearts Beat the Same By: Lindsay Wheland, MS Our Hearts Beat the Same is a heartfelt story based upon a real student that Lindsay Wheland, MS, taught when she was an elementary teacher at Mayfield Elementary School. This story brings to life a child with autism who was mainstreamed into a first-grade classroom. It highlights his (and his family's) struggles to be accepted and understood. This child taught Lindsay a huge lesson about acceptance and tolerance. It also demonstrates how all children are different and special in their own way and deserve the chance to shine in their environment. Another important lesson this book offers is how all children can develop understanding and acceptance if fostered by adults in their environment. It is meant to teach children how to love others and see past the physical and/or mental disabilities.