How To Teach Children About Disability and Acceptance
An inclusive society for those with disabilities is one that offers the same opportunities and experiences as those without. It is a society that accepts those with disabilities and does not discriminate. An inclusive society doesn’t have to be a dream. We can make it a reality by intentionally teaching our children about disabilities and how they can show acceptance and inclusion. Having these conversations at an early age prepares your child so they know how to interact with individuals with disabilities in a respectful way. It can also potentially decrease the chance of bullying occurring. We’ve put together three (3) ways you can teach children about disability and acceptance.
An inclusive society doesn’t have to be a dream.
1. Have age-appropriate conversations about disabilities at home
Talk to your child about what it means to have a disability and how they can help to make that person’s life a bit easier. Having these talks before they interact with someone with a disability prepares them for real-life situations so they are not caught off guard. Baylor University offers some tips based on age range that can be helpful.
2. Answer questions when they ask
Children are naturally very curious and are constantly seeking information. It’s okay if they ask questions, give them the proper answers that address whatever concern or misinformation they may have. Don’t dismiss questions in an effort to be polite. They may not understand why someone who looks ‘normal’ may exhibit a behavior that is ‘weird’, as not all disabilities are visible. Knowledge is power.
3. Teach them about respect and dignity
Inclusion and acceptance mean treating someone with respect and dignity. Having a disability doesn’t make you less, teach your child how to treat people who are different with the same respect and dignity they would show anyone else.
Let them know it’s okay to be different and that people don’t need to change to be treated with respect.