Today as boundaries are redefined, conventions are shattered, and the word acceptance has scaled new heights, how do we define normal? Normal for us is what we see around, normal is what is accepted without questions… but as we move towards a global existence, isn’t it equally important to have a more holistic view on acceptance.
Why is a person with glasses considered normal while a person using hearing aid, not so normal? As educated individuals, it is important to sensitize ourselves towards specially abled persons. We need to begin by understanding that yes they are different and different is okay. As adults, understanding chromosomes and genetic differences might be easy, but it’s equally important to introduce our children to the same in an age appropriate manner.
A beautiful book to do so is, ‘My Friend Isabelle’ By Eliza Woloson. The story begins with Charlie, a little boy, introducing his friend Isabelle and himself. He talks about how they both are different and how he can run faster than her, knows more words than her, and how she teaches him to twirl. He points out that they are the same age but they are different and that his mom tells him that the world is beautiful because we are all different.
A simple story that subtly points out the fact that Isabelle has Down syndrome, and even though she isn’t the same as Charlie, her feelings and emotions are the same as him. It celebrates the difference between the two children through simple text and beautiful illustrations, without being too intrusive or deep. The book is a wonderful read out to introduce young children to Down syndrome without delving into too many details.
It works as a perfect bridge to address that just because someone is different, it does not mean that they cannot have a beautiful friendship that brings joy to all!
Recommended age: 2-7 year olds
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