It's been awhile since my last post, I am just so proud of Hailey! Not only because she is doing well with her gait trainer but also because she is really enjoying showing off her new set of wheels and playing with the other children. In the video you can see and hear the reactions from the other children at the park. At one point she seems to be the envy of a curious little boy (we'll call him George). He thinks what she is riding is like an airplane! He comments that he has never seen a bike like that. He is asking all kinds of questions and at one point he asks why Hailey isn't talking. Another curious girl was just staring quietly at Hailey. I realize that this is probably something that Hailey will have to face her whole life, and at some point she will probably be picked on or even treated mean. I am not quite sure how to handle this, I was not quite sure how we should have answered George's questions. I find it hard to explain to children in a way that they would understand, and at the same time being sensitive to the fact that Hailey is listening to everything that is being said. I'm sure that it is natural for George to be curious about Hailey not being able to walk and talk, but at the same time Hailey must be curious about why everyone around her CAN walk and talk. Educating adults about Hailey's disability is hard enough, not an easy thing for adults to grasp. Talking to children, Hailey included, it's difficult to know the right thing to say. I hope that with today's school system having more inclusive classrooms it will help typical children to understand how to talk and act and play with their peers despite their ability.
(click on the video below)
With the summer here and more things to be done out doors I haven't had much time for painting, but I do have some work hanging at The Mud House. So if any of you are in the Dorchester area, stop by The Mud House 389 Neponset Ave. They serve the best coffee, sandwiches and pastry fresh daily. Thank you to all who purchased Cerebral Palsy stained glass ribbons, and remember we can make any color awareness ribbon that you would like to support.
I would LOVE to see the video! You can resize it using Real Player (free) http://www.real.com/realplayer/search
ReplyDeleteSmall children--when they're curious and come and ask questions--don't mean bad; they learn the ignorant approach later in life...So I just usually answer them honestly, using positive terms, hoping that the experience will contribute to their better approach to disability in the future.
Thanks Viktoria, eventually I will get the video up. Hope India is doing great! I also enjoy reading your blog.
ReplyDeleteThe picture is worth a thousand words. She's precious!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment on my blog. :) I am always very humbled when parents of children with disabilities learn something from me - makes me feel worthwhile! I loved your video. Though Hailey's walker may not be an aeroplane (though who doesn't like riding aeroplanes!), she sure can fly in it. Hailey is very very cute. I will be checking your blog regularly now. :) And by the way, your paintings are amazing too!
ReplyDeletei feel bad to ask is haley verbal
ReplyDelete