In our special education classes, we talk about handicapism and person-first language. Don't say learning disabled student; say student with a learning disability. Don't say retarded kid; say kid with an intellectual impairment. There are those who say this is just being politically correct, but those of us who work with children with disabilities and their families know how real this difference is.
This was brought home today when I read a post on Facebook from my friend Lane. She was so excited that her wheelchair was delivered. Now she would be free to do things she wanted to do with much less assistance. Before, she was trapped in a body that wasn't working for her. Now she is liberated. Think of that when you hear someone say that a person is confined to a wheelchair. Far from confined, they are given wings.
Very well stated. Patti M.
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