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Welcome Our Differences

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Inclusion is a way of thinking and acting that demonstrates universal acceptance and promotes a sense of belonging for all people. Inclusion celebrates differences and promotes treating all people equitably. Inclusion encourages all children to play together, problem solve together, develop respect for differences and develop compassion toward others.

Inclusion happens when a community is willing to learn, plan and support programs for children and families who all have unique abilities and needs. Answering children’s questions about disabilities in an honest and straightforward way can relay the message that people with disabilities do, indeed, have differences, but they also have much more in common with other people.

Children sometimes comment when they see a person who looks or acts differently and this is okay. If parents and caregivers encourage children to ask their questions respectfully, and then respond honestly and with accurate information, they let children know that it is acceptable to talk openly about differences. Everyone benefits when people with disabilities are included within the community.

Inclusion is part of our community in childcare centres, schools and community programs. Inclusion in our community has evolved past integration, which simply brought people together and tolerated differences, to a place where differences are respected, and all people are welcome, have the opportunity to participate and are valuable members of their community.

“We are a box of crayons, each one of us unique, but when we get together, the picture is complete.”                                  

The Crayon Box that Talked

 

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