Labels

Labels are everywhere.  In the world of nutrition I believe they are vital to making smarter decisions and impacting the health of our society. Unfortunately labels can show people's focus whether it is attempting to describe someone, draw a political line, and even may go so far as to explain tragedies we encounter.

In the world of play, program development, and social opportunities I believe that the labeling puts limits on how we look at others and what we can do as a society for those with labels.  I speak specifically of those with disabilities.

For the sake of conversation lets set a scene.  

We have a condition that impedes our ability to succeed, or be happy.  We are given the tools to overcome the condition, or at least manage it so we can live with others.  Now we want to do something and find out that our condition impacts our ability to be included.  Is that fair?

Does this happen to people you know? Do people you know who look at someone and say, "Oh, he/she has (insert label)." 

Does the label get in the way, rather than the ability? Does our difficulty in creating universally designed spaces and social opportunities impact people?

Does a child get more services, or is viewed differently, depending on the label? Why does one label get more attention than another when it comes to services recieved?

We believe services should not depend on a label and are ready to embrace the focus that goes beyond labels, and are looking for some help.

This week stop, look, and listen.

Stop when you step up to go into a store or restaurant and notice if there is a ramp for access. Is the door accessible if you can't turn a door knob?

Look around when someone with a disability is near and notice if others are staring behind their, or their parents', back. If children are playing and one child is on the side watching, do they look happy?

Listen to yourself and others, when talking about people. Are you adding a label (color, disability, etc.) when you couuld have said the same sentence without  a potentially limiting descriptor.

The label we are promoting this year to connect the community in which they live reads: HELLO, My Name Is......

All play and social skills in a variety of novel settings starts with an introduction (verbal or not).  Sometimes a smile is the only invitation needed.

Try IT and celebrate a year without lables with us!

STOP. LOOK. LISTEN. & SMILE!!