How to Talk to Children About Disability Inclusivity and Awareness
As a parent, every day with Lauren, my almost 6-year-old daughter, is a gentle reminder of how beautifully simple and accepting children can be. Lauren has grown up seeing me navigate life as a wheelchair user, yet to her, it’s just “normal.” She doesn’t treat me any differently—not because she’s being taught not to, but because she doesn’t know any other way. Her world, shaped by love and familiarity, naturally includes my disability as part of the fabric of her life.
The Sweetest Mischief: Stealing Daddy’s Wheelchair
One of Lauren's favorite ways to play involves “borrowing” my wheelchair. She’ll climb into it, zoom around the room with a mischievous grin, and then shout, “Daddy, catch me!” This is her way of connecting with me—it’s not about the wheelchair; it’s about us. It’s pure curiosity and love. For her, the wheelchair isn’t a barrier or something “different”—it’s just part of her dad’s world, and she embraces it wholeheartedly.
A Community that Reflects Inclusivity
We live in a town with a Miracle League field and park. Lauren calls it “Daddy Park,” and I love that she sees it as a joyful place where inclusion is celebrated. She runs and plays there with kids of all abilities, without hesitation or awkwardness. Parks like these embody the progress we’ve made as a society toward inclusivity, creating spaces where differences don’t separate us—they enrich our shared experiences.
A Shift in How We Approach Disability
Conversations about disability have evolved significantly over the years. When I was a child, disability was often discussed in hushed tones or avoided altogether. Today, our schools are actively embracing inclusion, from wheelchair-accessible classrooms to curriculum designed to teach kids about empathy and diversity. Lauren is growing up in a generation where these values are woven into the everyday—her school friends come from different backgrounds and abilities, and she’s learning to see and celebrate these differences as strengths.
However, there’s still work to do. Many children don’t grow up around someone with a disability and may approach the topic with curiosity, confusion, or even fear. The key to bridging this gap lies in how we, as parents and educators, frame the conversation.
Kids Who Know vs. Kids Who Don’t
Lauren’s natural comfort around my disability stems from familiarity. For children who don’t have this experience, their reactions are shaped by what they’re taught and exposed to. Without guidance, they may unintentionally perpetuate stereotypes or misunderstandings. But when we encourage curiosity and provide honest answers, we equip them with empathy and understanding.
Children are sponges, and they notice differences. When they ask, “Why does your friend use a wheelchair?” or “Why does that person look or act differently?” these are golden opportunities for growth. Respond with love, honesty, and age-appropriate language. For example:
“Some people use wheelchairs to help them move around, just like we use shoes to walk!”
“Everyone is different, and that’s what makes the world interesting. Isn’t it amazing how we all do things in our own way?”
Meeting Kids Where They Are
Talking to children about disability should be tailored to their age and maturity level. For young ones, use simple, relatable examples and encourage them to ask questions. For older kids, you can introduce concepts like accessibility, fairness, and the importance of inclusion in broader contexts. Keep the conversation open, free from judgment or condescension.
Above all, lead with vulnerability and authenticity. As Brené Brown reminds us, connection and understanding come from allowing ourselves to be seen and heard fully. Share stories, highlight the importance of kindness, and model the behavior you want to see in your children.
A Call to Action: Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
As parents, caregivers, and members of the community, it’s our responsibility to keep these conversations alive. Disability inclusivity isn’t just a one-time talk—it’s an ongoing dialogue. Let’s strive to create spaces where children, like Lauren, can grow up embracing differences with curiosity and love, rather than fear or hesitation.
For our children and for the disability community, the highest goal is the same: to foster a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and included.
