Inclusive classrooms that integrate students of all ability levels mean children are more likely to have friends and classmates with disabilities. Children are likely to pick out the differences in others, whether the disability is physical or mental. A child may feel a person with a disability is unable to do the same things. In other cases, the disability is confusing or scary for a child. Teaching your child about the differences and similarities in all people helps her learn to accept all of her classmates with and without disabilities.
Step 1
Model acceptance of people with disabilities in your own interactions. Treat all people with the same level of respect, including friends, family members and strangers in public places.
Step 2
Discuss disabilities in people you encounter. For example, if you see a person in a wheelchair, explain why he needs it to help your child understand the disability better.
Step 3
Read books that discuss disabilities or that include images of people with disabilities. Point out the people in the pictures and discuss their similarities and differences.
Step 4
Point out that all children are different in some ways, including kids without disabilities. Brainstorm with your child to think of ways that all kids are the same and different.
Step 5
Remind your child that children with disabilities can still do normal activities like playing and maintaining friendships. Point out examples of how accommodations can allow the child to participate. For example, a child who cannot walk still may be able to play basketball with the aid of her wheelchair.
Step 6
Talk about disabilities caused by birth defects that the child has dealt with since birth. Reassure your child that he won't catch a disability simply by playing together.
Step 7
Look for common interests your child may have with a child with disabilities. Encourage your child to explore those similarities to include the other child.
Step 8
Suggest ways for your child to help a disabled classmate. Remind her that the classmate may not want help, so she shouldn't force it on him.
Step 9
Correct your child if she has misconceptions about another child's disability.
