Not So Different: What You Really Want to Ask About Having a Disability
What’s inside...
Shane Burcaw was born with a rare disease called spinal muscular atrophy, which hinders his muscles' growth. As a result, his body hasn't grown bigger and stronger as he's gotten older--it's gotten smaller and weaker instead. This hasn't stopped him from doing the things he enjoys (like eating pizza and playing sports and video games) with the people he loves, but it does mean that he routinely relies on his friends and family for help with everything from brushing his teeth to rolling over in bed.
Discussion points
How do you think Shane feels when people treat him differently because of his disability?
What are some ways we can be kind and inclusive to everyone, regardless of their abilities?
Why is it important to ask questions and learn about others’ experiences?
How can we support our friends if they share their challenges with us?
What did you learn from Shane’s story that you didn’t know before?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings as they relate to Shane’s experiences. Validate their emotions and provide information about disabilities to enhance their understanding. Share personal stories of overcoming challenges to make the conversation relatable. Emphasize the importance of empathy, kindness, and inclusion in everyday interactions. Ask your child how they think they can apply Shane’s lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through Shane Burcaw's honest and straightforward narrative about his life with spinal muscular atrophy, children learn to empathize with others who may appear different but share similar desires and feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing differences in their peers, leading to more inclusive behaviors and understanding in diverse settings.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Shane's positive attitude and humorous take on life's challenges highlight the importance of resilience. Despite physical limitations, he lives a fulfilling life, which teaches children to persevere through their own challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to adopt a positive outlook and keep trying no matter the obstacles, whether in school, sports, or social interactions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Open Dialogue
Explanation: The book encourages children to ask questions about disabilities, promoting a culture of learning and openness rather than making assumptions or harboring prejudices.
Real-World Application: In their daily interactions, children can learn to ask thoughtful, respectful questions when they encounter something unfamiliar, which promotes better understanding and communication.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance and Identity
Explanation: Through Shane's acceptance of his disability as part of his identity, children learn the importance of accepting themselves and others just as they are.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace their unique qualities and those of others, fostering self-confidence and a sense of belonging in social environments.
Example Lesson: Humor as a Coping Mechanism
Explanation: Shane uses humor to deal with difficult situations, showing that laughter can be a powerful tool for coping with adversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use humor to diffuse tension and handle challenges in a light-hearted way, improving their emotional and psychological resilience.