People of different abilities all deserve our respect

We have a responsibility to educate young children about our community, and our community is one that includes people with different abilities, says Maddie Rizzo.

 “Unfortunately, we are living in a time where stigma is still often attached to having different abilities, which can become a barrier for people with disability,’’ says the manager of Narellan’s World of Learning.

 “Children can definitely play a part in breaking down these barriers when they are given the tools to do so.

  “Sharing stories is a fundamental human experience and helps us connect with other people’s point of view,’’ says Ms Rizzo.

 “I believe it will help children to, authentically and respectfully, understand the experiences of people with different abilities.”

Narellan World of Learning are supporting a Camden Council initiative encouraging parents, carers, educators and teachers to talk with children about recognising all abilities.

It is also encouraging them to check out disability inclusion resource kits available in Camden’s libraries.

The kits contain 14 books which talk about disabilities, to spark conversations about being aware, understanding and accepting of people with disability. The kits also include learning guides and objectives, discussion points, activities and where to go for more information.

They are free to borrow from Camden, Narellan and Oran Park libraries – all residents need is a library card.

 “More than 6,000 Camden residents currently live with some form of disability, more than 3,300 need help in their day-to-day lives due to a severe or profound disability and more than 6,600 provided unpaid assistance to a person with a disability, long term illness or old age,” says  the mayor of Camden, Cr Peter Sidgreaves.

 “I believe storytelling is a great way to teach children about the differences they’ll see in the people around them and how important it is to be respectful to everyone.

 “One of the key actions in our Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 is to support International Day of People with Disability, and these kits are an extension of our celebrations,’’ Cr Sidgreaves said.

“We’re ensuring our community is focused on awareness, understanding and acceptance all year-round.’’