How to talk to your kids about other kids with disabilities

 

Hi everyone, As a woman with Cerebral Palsy and a children’s book author who writes stories featuring kids with Cerebral Palsy, I thought I would send you some tips on how to talk to your kids about other kids with disabilities before school starts. "How do I talk to kids about disabilities without saying the wrong thing?" The short answer is: with honesty, empathy, and openness. Kids are naturally curious and incredibly compassionate when given the chance. When we help them understand differences, we give them the tools to be better friends, better classmates, and better humans. Here are a few gentle ways to start the conversation: 1. Keep it Simple and Honest Use age-appropriate language and explain that disabilities are just one part of who someone is. For example: “Some people’s muscles work differently, and they might use a wheelchair to get around.” 2. Encourage Questions Let kids ask what’s on their minds—no matter how awkward it may sound at first. Model kindness by responding with patience and facts. 3. Focus on Abilities, Not Just Challenges Talk about what kids can do, not just what they can’t. Yes, we with a disability may use a wheelchair to get around or speak differently, even play in a different way. But we’re just like them. We all have the same feelings, wants and thoughts. Remind your kids that kids with disabilities want to play just like they do. 4. Use Books and Stories as Tools Inclusive stories help children understand different experiences without fear or judgment. (P.S. That’s why I write them!) Final Thought: When we start these conversations early, we raise kids who grow up seeing differences as normal—not something to fear or pity. That’s the heart of my work: stories that reflect all kids and the beautiful ways they move through the world. If you haven’t yet, check out my books featuring kids with CP—it’s a great place to start the conversation. https://www.terrielynnbirneyauthor.com/my-store