Play with a disabled child
Children, try to include the disabled child in
your games and adventures. Let him do as much
for himself as he can, and help him only when he
needs it. But remember, he cannot do everything
you can. Protect him from danger… but do not
protect him too much! Too much protection is
dangerous to any child’s health. Children need
adventure for their minds to grow, just as they
need food for their bodies to grow.
Swimming
Many children who cannot use their legs can
learn to swim well. Their arms become unusually
strong from using crutches, and in the water
they easily keep up with other children. But
sometimes they have trouble getting to the water,
or the other children forget to invite them...
24-15
Photos from Ajoya, Mexico
CHILDREN WITH VERY SEVERE
DISABILITIES
Some children have very severe disabilities. They
cannot swim or play many games. But sometimes
these children can learn to play marbles, cards, or
guessing games.
It is especially difficult for a child who cannot
speak or think as easily as other children. This
child may be very lonely. Sometimes a child who
cannot speak understands a lot more than people
think he does. If there is such a child in your
neighborhood, perhaps children could take turns
visiting him, to talk or play with him. Let him
know you care.
A friendly word of welcome to include the child
with a special problem, or a little extra time or
attention given to him, can make a big difference—
and can make everyone feel good.
To help children see how much it matters to
the disabled child to be included in their fun,
perhaps they can act out the pictures above.
BABIES WITH PROBLEMS
Sometimes a baby has problems that make it
very hard for him to learn to sit or crawl or walk.
The muscles in his back or legs may be too weak,
or may make jerky movements the child cannot
control.
A child like this needs special help. Often there
are things that older brothers and sisters can do to
help the child learn to use both his mind and his
body better.
For example: If a child has trouble learning to
crawl, perhaps his older brothers and sisters, or other
children, can play ‘crawling games’ with him.
Two children can hold up
part of the baby’s weight as he
tries to crawl. Another child
encourages the baby to
crawl by holding out a
fruit or toy.