Specialists of the All -Ukrainian Mental Health Program "Are you like?", Launched by the First Lady Elena Zelenskaya, shared useful tips on how to talk to children about people with disabilities. Experts emphasized the need to follow several steps for successful communication.
First of all, it is recommended to focus on their own feelings before starting a conversation to help the child to realize them. It is important to understand that the feeling of fear or confusion is normal.
The second important aspect is to act on ahead, starting a conversation before the child raises his questions. This will help to avoid misunderstandings and unpleasant situations.
The third step is not to be afraid of open questions from children. At the age of 7, children often express their worries loud, and this is completely natural. It is important to answer their questions and discuss the situation together instead of allowing imagination or misunderstanding.
The latter, but no less important aspect, is to give a simple and understandable explanation. For example, parents are advised to explain to the child that there are people with prostheses on their arms or legs, and this is absolutely normal. It is important to cultivate respect for such people and emphasize that in the case of questions the child may turn to the parents, but not in the presence of the person himself, as it may be unpleasant for him.
