"Say What?" Disability Terminology Part I

Labels should not be used to stereotype children and individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, however, they are used and this is my topic today. This is a touchy subject for many; particularly parents of children with disabilities. I am using the term “disabilities” for the purpose of this blog. I understand that most parents prefer to use the term children with special needs. It is my personal opinion, though, that in some instances this term is too general.

Everyone is different and children with disabilities are as diverse as the rest of us. Not all disabilities are obvious to others. In many cases parents of these children do not consider their impairments a “disability” at all.

If children and adults are to be included in the mainstream of education and society then we, the able-bodied, need to change our perception of people with disabilities. To raise awareness we must remove the image barriers and negative assumptions that often shape our attitudes in viewing, approaching and communicating with people with disabilities.

Able bodied children often discriminate and segregate other children with disabilities; perhaps out of fear, upbringing, or ignorance. It is my experience that children (and adults) are often unaware of how hurtful and demeaning these words can be. We all can learn to use the correct words to promote social acceptance and friendship with the disability community.

We adults have the responsibility to better communicate with all children and to demonstrate by example how to give the respect and dignity that people with disabilities deserve to have. (More to follow in next blog.)

What do you have to say?
Julie