As we all get into the back to school mode……
We want to remind you that in addition to the anxiety of starting school in person again, there’s the added stress that some families face–how are the kids going to interact with my disabled child?
Are they going to stare?
Are they going to point?
Are they going to whisper behind their hands?
Are their faces going to reflect their fear and in turn make my daughter’s heart break?
Are they going to laugh? Mock her because she’s different?
Or will it be more subtle–where she’s simply ignored or excluded because she has to move around the world differently than the other kids do?
Will I have to keep explaining the difference between special “treatment” and accessibility and inclusion?
I implore you.
Talk to your children about how their actions may make others feel–intentionally or not.
Talk to your children about different abilities and different perspectives and different life experiences.
Talk to your kids about inclusion.
Talk to your kids about accessibility.
Talk to your kids about how everyone has value regardless of their abilities.
Talk to your kids about the beauty of uniqueness.
Talk to your kids about kindness and empathy.
Talk to your kids about smiling and waving instead of staring and pointing.
Talk to your kids about lending a helping hand.
Talk to your kids about embracing a curiosity mindset instead of a fear of differences.
Talk to your children about welcoming kids into their group instead of excluding them.
Talk to your children about diversity.
Talk to your kids about bullying–in all forms.
Let’s make sure this school year everyone feels celebrated, welcome, and included
