Did you know that March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month? President Ronald Reagan proclaimed this back in 1987. It is a time to increase and spread awareness of the different needs and also all of the amazing potential that people with developmental disabilities have in schools, work, at home and in the community. We at O.W.L like to focus on and celebrate all abilities.
Developmental disabilities (DD) can be physical, affect the ability to communicate, can impair learning and even behaviors. Most parents with children who have developmental disabilities have a different experience then typical parents do when it comes to watching their children reach their milestones. It can be stressful and worrisome for the whole family. They are not just watching their children grow, they are making sure their children are walking, talking, able to follow simple instructions, responding to sounds and even their reactions to touch. Early diagnosis is so important so that the child can get the assistance needed to reach their potential and live life to the fullest. Many parents experience different stages of acceptance during this time.
As Instructional Assistants, we saw the many stages parents and even our students’ siblings go through. It can be difficult for some parents to accept the diagnosis at first. Children with siblings that have DD also go through stages of acceptance, especially when they attend the same school.
During the time we were Instructional Assistants, we made sure to advocate for our students and tried our best to assure they were always included, as well as raising awareness to the school community however we could.
In honor of March being National Developmental Disabilities Month, we encourage you to get out there and do something to show you acknowledge and support those families, individuals and even the teachers and special caregivers! The simplest gesture can be so meaningful to someone. For example, tell a parent they’re doing a great job! Volunteer to assist people in different activities. Say hello, engage in a conversation, show interest in what they do. If you are friends with or are a family member of someone who has a child with DD, offer to care for them so parents can have some time to themselves. Call them to check in and listen to what they’re going through.
If you are a parent of a child with DD, reach out to other parents and make friends! Share your experiences and challenges. This can be so uplifting to know that someone else may be having the same experiences and to share how to navigate through similar challenges. It can also help you to find new resources that are available. Most of all, we encourage everyone to practice acceptance, inclusion and kindness to all! You never know what someone else is going through and the smallest act of caring can mean the world to them!
Don't forget, March 2nd is Read Across America Day! No matter what age your students or children are, you can celebrate this day by reading to, or with them. We also encourage you to listen to them read to you! Go to the library or a bookstore and pick out a book together to read at home! Talk to them about what they liked about the book. Take time for yourself to curl up and read a good book or listen to one while working or doing stuff around the house. Start or join a book club with friends or family members. Teachers, take students to the school library to choose books and create a fun activity for students to share their book of choice. There are so many ways to enjoy and celebrate reading! Check out O.W.L 's Library in our Educational Resources.
