506 chapter 54
LEARNING SKILLS FOR AN ACTIVE OR PRODUCTIVE ROLE IN
THE COMMUNITY
Development of the mind
Learning skills that require more
mental than physical activity can help
the physically disabled child to gain a
place in the community.
For development of skills such as
reading, writing, and arithmetic, when
possible, it is usually best that the
disabled child go to school. Ideas for
helping the child get to school and be
accepted there are discussed in chapters
47 and 53. If the child cannot go to
school, figure out ways for her to be
taught at home—perhaps by school-
children.
In Melkote, India, the Janapada Seva Trust
teaches disabled village children many
productive skills. Here, a boy without hands
uses his foot to draw greeting cards, which
are later sold.
As soon as the child learns to read and write, try to buy or borrow simple, interesting,
and educational books. With these the child can develop her mind further.
Starting a village library is often an excellent idea. In fact, a disabled young
person may be able to become the village ‘librarian’—and a non-formal educator.
To open up other
possibilities, help your
village recognize both the
needs and value of disabled
and other disadvantaged
persons (such as single
mothers). When deciding
who to choose for public
service jobs and community
responsibilities, try to make
it a village policy to consider
choosing persons who
have disabilities or special
needs.
Although they are
sometimes unable to do hard
physical farm work, disabled
persons can often make
outstanding health workers,
cooperative administrators,
shop keepers, librarians,
‘cultural promoters’,
or child care center
coordinators—if they are
given the chance.
In a village, a young person who learns to read and write
can become a ‘librarian’ and sharer of information.
Disabled village Children