Disability Awareness

Room 221 community members had a fantastic learning experience at the Disability Awareness program this afternoon. The children had the opportunity to try adaptive equipment that makes it easier for people with disabilities to do many things like hold a spoon, or reach something up high. Special guest, Dale Wise, was very open with the children as he shared his prosthetic leg and other prosthetic limbs. He also showed the children a short clip from the Paralympics. Did you know that the United States is one of the only countries NOT to televise this major athletic event? Finally, the children were able to try out crutches, walkers and wheelchairs. They even tried playing hockey and basketball while using the equipment.

It's really important that children understand that people with disabilities can do many, many things. They may just do them differently than other people. It is also important for children to remember that disability or not, everyone has things they are good at. Everyone has things they struggle with. Finally, we want children to consider how they treat and talk to people with disabilities. For example, if a child who uses a wheelchair is on the playground, they can find ways to include that child in their play. Children with disabilities want to have friends and be included just like all other children.

Thank you to all the amazing parents that spent many hours making this possible.