6 Creative Ways to Teach Your Kids About Disabilities

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“Mommy, why is that boy acting different?” asked little Lily, her eyes wide with curiosity. I quickly recognized she was pointing at my son, Sam, a vibrant kid who happens to have autism. With his quirky antics and love for all things dinosaurs, he’s a true character! But I noticed the unease in her dad as he hurried her away, avoiding the question altogether.

Honestly, I used to feel awkward around people with disabilities myself. There was a time when I would’ve steered clear of anyone who looked or acted differently. But since Sam came into my life, everything has changed. He’s taught me invaluable lessons about acceptance and kindness. Many parents often wonder how to best engage their children in conversations about disabilities. I hear the quiet whispers at parks and grocery stores, and I want to embrace every curious child and well-meaning parent. It’s essential to foster a dialogue that encourages understanding instead of confusion.

Here are six tips to remember when discussing disabilities with your children:

1. Celebrate Differences: Kids with special needs are unique, and that’s something to cherish. It’s all too easy to feel uncomfortable around those who seem “different.” Instead of ignoring these differences, let’s chat about them respectfully. For instance, Sam may have some challenges, but he’s also incredibly empathetic and makes friends easily. Encourage your child to see that differences can be cool!
2. Find Common Ground: Kids with disabilities share many traits with other children. They have feelings, interests, and dreams too! Ask your child what they think Sam might enjoy doing or listening to. This can help kids realize that while some may have disabilities, they still share common human experiences.
3. Disabilities Aren’t Illnesses: It’s important to clarify that disabilities don’t equate to being sick. Instead of saying “that kid is sick,” try to explain that everyone has their own challenges, and that’s perfectly normal. Remember, disabilities are not something someone else can “catch.”
4. Choose Your Words Wisely: Language matters! Teach your kids the appropriate terms like “disability” or “special needs.” Instead of “normal,” use “typical” when discussing developmental milestones. This helps avoid labeling and promotes understanding. Also, remind them that hurtful words like “retarded” should never be used, as they perpetuate negative stereotypes about those with intellectual disabilities.
5. Encourage Questions: Kids are naturally inquisitive, and that’s a beautiful trait! If they ask about someone’s differences, don’t shush them. If you’re unsure about the answer, it’s okay to reach out to the child’s parent. We love sharing and educating others about our kids.
6. Explore Resources: There are plenty of fantastic shows and books that feature children with disabilities. For example, check out episodes of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood or read books like We’ll Paint the Octopus Red by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen. This can open up meaningful discussions about disabilities in a fun way.

Thank you for wanting to teach your kids about these important topics. Remember, the best way to educate children is by modeling behavior. A friendly smile and a simple “hello” can go a long way. We all want to be seen and appreciated, and that’s a lesson worth passing on.

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In summary, teaching kids about disabilities is crucial for fostering empathy and understanding. By encouraging dialogue, using respectful language, and exploring resources, we can help our children grow into compassionate individuals.