If your child often tells about a child who is physically disabled, then you must teach your child how to behave with him.
Your child is fine. He is completely healthy. But a friend studying in his class is physically unwell. Your child tells you about him but does not talk to him. In such a situation, you have to give your child the right knowledge about physical disability, so that he does not misbehave with that child, because in the absence of correct information and understanding, children often make wrong assumptions about disability, which can promote discrimination.
How to explain
You have to talk to the child with an open mind. Ask the child about his friend, what he likes, and what he does not like in that child. Listen to the child patiently. Only by doing this will you be able to understand what is in his mind and give him the right knowledge. Your right guidance can help the child make friends and build a strong bond with that child.
An example
When you are trying to explain to the child, talk to him in simple language and use examples. Explain to him that every person is different by comparing different types of disabilities. Give examples of some successful people who challenged their disability and moved forward in life.
Encourage him to help
Encourage your child to play and join activities with the physically disabled child. Tell him ways to help that child, such as lifting things or taking him to the washroom. Answer all the questions of the child honestly and clearly, but never give wrong information.
Your language
You should use words like ‘having special needs’ or ‘having different abilities’ instead of words like ‘disabled’ because whatever words you use for such children, he will learn and use them. Using bad language can hurt the mind of a physically disabled child. Therefore, read books and stories to your child that feature people with different types of disabilities.
Make the mind pure
It is very important to develop empathy and tolerance in the child. As a parent, it is your role to prepare your child for a society where everyone is accepted equally. School counselors can help in understanding and guiding your child. There are also many online resources available, which can provide you with more information on this subject.
Be a support if he is sad
Child psychologist Gargi Malgudi says parents should adopt a psychological approach to explain to their child. If your child's friend is physically disabled, then he should be explained to be a friend of that child and be ready to help him at all times. Parents should focus on making their children a little more sensitive.
Tell your child to sit with a disabled friend in the class, and help him in his studies. Teach him not to make fun of the physical appearance of any child and if someone else does so, then stop him too. At the time of leaving, help him to sit on the seat by taking him to the bus. If he is sad, give him emotional support. Never tease or use bad language, nor let anyone else speak.
(PC: ISTOCK)
