January 30, 2026
Start Early & Avoid Stereotypes
Introduce young children to people with disabilities as part of their early learning.
- Read books, find cartoons, and use puppets that portray children with disabilities.
This can help you discuss disabilities with your child in a way that avoids stereotypes.
Encourage Questions & Assistance
When you are out in the community and see an individual with a disability, allow your child to ask questions about their assistive device (wheelchair, walker). Explain that some people are born with disabilities, some people become injured and have disabilities, and some disabilities may come with age.
- Allow your child to offer assistance to someone struggling to get groceries into their car, or let them ask if they can help someone get an item off a shelf.
Use Person-First Language
Model inclusive language by saying, “a person with disabilities,” rather than a “disabled person.” This will help your child understand that someone with a disability is a person, just like them.
- Teach your child to include children with disabilities into their friend group. Help them stand up for their individuals with disabilities and educate others about how to treat everyone with respect and dignity.
Provide Opportunities for Inclusion
Consider a preschool or childcare center that offers an inclusive model, where children of all abilities can learn and play together. Research indicates that these early friendships help create a foundation for inclusion and understanding throughout life.
- Fraser Preschool and Childcare Center is an inclusive Richfield-based program that offers infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-k services for children of all abilities to learn through play and interaction. The school is currently accepting applications for fall/winter 2026. When you enroll in Feb-March, you will have your $200 enrollment fee waived, with receipt of your first month’s tuition. Find out more at fraser.org/preschool.