Introduction
Children have open minds and open hearts. There is no better time to create an understanding that people with disabilities must be perceived as people first.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Steps
1Step OneListen to the child.
2Step TwoLet the child voice fears and ask questions.
3Step ThreeView the situation from the child's perspective.
4Step FourBe truthful, keeping your answers age-appropriate.
5Step FiveExplain disability at the level the child can understand.
6Step SixSatisfy a child's curiosity. Let the child sit in a wheelchair, for example.
7Step SevenStress the positive. For example, use of a wheelchair enhances mobility.
8Step EightRemember that children take upon themselves unnecessary responsibility for situations.
9Step NineStress family loyalty and unity.
10Step TenSpend extra time with children.
11Step Eleven Encourage children to help make your home more accessible.
12Step Twelve Remind children that everything changes, except the loved shared within the family.
Tips & Warnings
Counseling and support groups for the disabled person and for the family can be helpful.
Nondisabled children learn lessons in courage, pride, perseverance and loyalty from disabled family members.
Understand that a disabling injury or illness requires a grieving process. The family will pass through stages of anger, denial, depression and acceptance.
Understand the child may feel resentment. Help him work through it rather than reacting angrily.
