Don't Call Me Special: A First Look at Disability
#1 of 40 in A First Look At... Series
What’s inside...
This book serves as an introduction to disability for children aged 4 to 8. It tells the story of Rosie, a young girl with a disability who uses a wheelchair. The book encourages children to look beyond Rosie's disability and appreciate her unique qualities and strengths. It also provides resources and information for parents and teachers to facilitate discussions about disability with children. The book is part of the 'A First Look At' series, which promotes positive interaction among children, parents, and teachers, and encourages kids to confront social and emotional questions.
Discussion points
How did the book make you feel about people who are different from us?
Why do you think it's important to understand and respect everyone's abilities?
What is one thing you learned from the story that you didn't know before?
How would you help a friend who has a disability?
Can you think of ways we can make everyone feel included and special?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book to set a comfortable tone.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book’s characters and situations.
Highlight specific scenes from the book to discuss how the characters handled various situations.
Use affirmative language to validate your child's feelings and thoughts as they express them.
Guide the conversation towards empathy and understanding, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and respect for everyone’s differences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: The story educates children about various disabilities and emphasizes that everyone is unique, helping to foster a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding in school or playground settings, where they will be more inclusive and accepting of peers who may have disabilities.
Example Lesson: Empowerment and Independence
Explanation: The book showcases characters with disabilities managing tasks independently, empowering children to see abilities rather than limitations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to support autonomy in others and themselves, fostering a can-do attitude towards all tasks.
Example Lesson: Communication and Expression
Explanation: It highlights the importance of various forms of communication used by people with disabilities, showcasing that everyone has a voice.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be patient and attentive communicators, recognizing non-verbal cues and alternative communication methods in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Confidence and Self-esteem
Explanation: By portraying disabled characters in a positive light, the book helps build self-esteem among children with disabilities and promotes confidence.
Real-World Application: Children with or without disabilities can apply this by embracing their individual attributes and interacting confidently with others.