Promote Your Child’s Understanding about People with Disabilities

It’s difficult to discuss but it’s important! Everyone is affected in some way by the struggles of a disability. Teach your child that it’s okay to openly talk about it.

Reflect on what “disabilities” means. There are all kinds of disabilities. Help your child understand that disabilities come in all shapes and size and that sometimes the struggles are visible while other times the issues may be below the surface. Remind your child they may ask thoughtful questions to someone with a disability, like is there any way I can help you? Is there anything you want me to know?.

Discussion Prompt: “What is a Person with a Disability?”

“What does it mean when we say someone has a disability? Think about what you know or have learned about people with disabilities. Can you describe a person with a disability in your own words? What are some ways that people with disabilities may need extra help, and how can we be kind and respectful to them?”

Optional Follow-Up Questions:

• “Can you think of a time when you saw someone with a disability? What did you notice? How did they do things, and how did others help or support them?”
• Are all disabilities visible or noticeable?
• If someone seems different, does that always mean they have a disability?
• “What can you do to be a good friend to someone who has a disability? Can you think of small ways to help or make them feel included?”

Journaling Resources on this Topic: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Teaching-Students-About-Others-Disabilities-12767176

Write it out!

More Discussion Topics in the back of our books: https://letsgogizmo.com/books/

Nurture positive conversations and how to support your child in thinking through their peer interactions. They can be inclusive with all peers which will make them better leaders, problem solvers, and thoughtful friends.