Say What? DISABILITY ETIQUETTE: THE APPROPRIATE APPROACH

The following are some general suggestions to help you approach and communicate with children and adults with disabilities in an appropriate and considerate way:

1. Always speak directly to the child or adult with disabilities rather than through a parent, companion or assistant.
2. Approach children as children and adults as adults. Address individuals with disabilities by their first names or as you would extend the same familiarity to all others.
3. Offer to shake hands when introduced; if appropriate. People with limited hand use can usually shake hands or offer the available hand. Be guided by the actions of the visually impaired person because they may not be able to see your extended hand.
4. Always identify yourself when meeting someone who is visually impaired. If in a group, identify the others when speaking.
5. Most disabled children and adults do not need help. But, if you offer to help, only help if the disabled person has accepted your offer. If so, or if it is not clear how to help, listen carefully and ask for instructions.
6. Tap a person who is hearing impaired on the shoulder or wave your hand to get his or her attention. Always look directly at the person. Speak clearly and slowly to establish if the person can lip read
7. Place yourself at eye level when speaking to someone in a wheelchair, crutches or of small stature
8. Listen carefully and attentively when communicating with people who have difficulty speaking. Wait for them to finish their sentence and never pretend to understand. If you don’t understand, ask them politely to repeat what they’ve said. Or, repeat what you have understood to be sure it is correct and wait for a response.
9. Individuals with wheelchairs treat their chairs as an extension of their bodies; think of it as their personal space. Do not lean against or on the wheelchair. Never patronize adults in wheelchairs by patting them on the shoulders or head.
10. Each situation may be different.  Use common sense and don’t be embarrassed if you make a mistake. If in doubt whether or not your approach is appropriate or correct, or if you’re using the right language, just ask.
11. By all means, don't stare!

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Julie