1 minute read
Ways to support positive identity
By Karla Fitch (she/her), Connecting for Kids
All families want their children to feel good about themselves. We nurture their strengths and we help them build skills they need in life. But for kids with disabilities, that may not be enough.
Ableism — which is defined as “discrimination against people with disabilities” — is a part of our society. It comes up in our language, environment, and in the ways we treat others. Over time, it can chip away at the work families do to support their child’s positive identity.
What can families do?
EXPOSE YOUR CHILD TO OTHER PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.
The best way for families to learn about the strengths and challenges of living with a disability is to listen to people with disabilities. Look for social media accounts, books and magazines, or organizations that support disabled adults. You can find a great starter list of disabled adult voices at overthrowingableism.com (click the “Resources” tab). Connecting for Kids also has a book list with suggestions from local librarians at connectingforkids.org/disability.
CHANGE YOUR LANGUAGE. Many of the words we use to describe bad things are based on disability. One of the easiest ways to combat ableism is to stop using those words. There are some great word lists on the internet (search for “ableist word list”). Emily Ladau, a disabled author and advocate, also included a starter list in her book, “Demystifying Disability.” A quick cuddle at a Connecting for Kids event.
3.
BUILD YOUR OWN AWARENESS. Because ableism is part of our society, it can be easy to miss. When families are aware of ableism, listen to people with disabilities, and work to change the way they behave, children are more likely to have a positive identity that includes disability. Learn to recognize ableism from sources such as the Connecting for Kids disability series podcast, “What You Do and Say Matter.” (connectingforkids.org/DisabilitySeries22).