Some opportunities can enrich the lives of others as much as our own Spring is here.
All around, things are growing. At this time of year, many people begin to feel like growing a little themselves like indulging in a feeling of renewal by losing a few pounds, embarking on a fitness program, brushing up on an old skill or activity, or taking a workshop or course that will help them grow mentally or spiritually, professionally or personally. So often, when people look at a child with disabilities, the disability is all they see, says Sally Rogow, director of The Person Within. They become distracted by the child s facial features, body movements, manner of speaking, or other superficial characteristics and make no effort to connect with this child as they might do with a non-disabled child of the same age. That simple act of non-response that choice on the adult s part to forego any effort to connect and communicate can trigger a series of reactions and interactions, says Rogow.