See the Ability Behind a Disability

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Differentiate Better

TL;DR: Understanding differing abilities help us define the obstacles and the bias about ableism. Lesson plan ideas on talking about abilities and special needs by putting the person first. Explore a growth mindset while learning about biased perspectives. Equity and Inclusion Reflection Questions: Why does the society we live in consider able-bodied individuals as having more value? Think of a … Read More

Disability and Language

Teach Better TeamBlog

TL;DR: There are three types of language that people use to describe disabilities: person-first, identify-first, and person-centered. To be most respectful, connect with individuals in the community and ask for their preference in language to use. “She suffers from cerebral palsy.” “He is ‘on the spectrum’.” “She is a person with a hearing impairment.” “He is a blind man.” There … Read More

Raise the Bar

Teach Better TeamBlog, Lead Better

TL;DR: Our children with disabilities have a lower bar. Raise the bar by changing our perspective to see all students with disabilities as individuals who need to be to be met where they are, just like any of our other students. They will rise up past old-thinking expectations and go farther than they otherwise would. A disability is a part … Read More