Teaching+children+the+importance+of+understanding+disabilities

To ensure a students with a disability can learn in a safe neutering environment we must ensure others are aware of how to act and treat those with a disability. Through education we can encourage inclusive education, peer acceptance and understanding. (Kolucki,2011)

We as educators must introduce our students to information and activities that will enhance their understanding and acceptance of children with all kinds of special needs. The benfits of teaching others about disabilities can help children learn ways to interact with and include people with different abilities. One way to do this is provide activities and opportunities for students to understand and experiences what is would be like to have a disability. ( Kolucki, 2011) This may include role-plays, story telling or information sessions. These activities should focus on education and acceptance and that people with a disability still live a fulfilling life. This activity could be done in a general class setting or on a whole school apporach.

Depending on the age group, with older students you could have them watch movies like Forest Gump or I am Sam. Then ask the students questions such as  It is important to have a discussion about those with disabilities. Talk about what makes them different and how they might be quite similar. Examine stereotypes that surround disabled people. (ehow 2011) We must allow students the freedom to be honest about their own stereotypes. Ensure that there is supportive environment for students to share and help them to think logically about their opinions. (ehow 2011) Below I have listed a link // Activities to teach children about disabilities // which provides activities and strategies to teach others about disabilities // [] // (ehow 2011)
 * Develop their own understanding of a person with a disability,
 * What is societies view on the character
 * How can we change the stigma attached to those with a disability

Education is the key to understanding and will ultimately create a friendly environment and positive ethos for those with a disability. Understanding from a whole school approach will encourage social inclusion for those able and disabled. It is never to early to start teaching children acceptance of those with a disability, this can begin in primary and continue throughout high school

EHow Education (2011) //Activities to teach children about disabilities// [|Activities to Teach Children About Disabilities | eHow.com] [] retrieved 27th of July

Kolucki, B (2011) // The Importance of Teaching Children to Celebrate and Value // [] retrieved 27th of July