Terminology that Hurts
By Robyne D. Batson (May 2006)
It has been brought to my attention that some of our learners are using terms that can be hurtful. Sometimes their intention is to be mean but usually it is just a lack of education. Please help our learners to be kind in conversation. The word "retarded" can be hurtful even when it is not directed at an individual.
Since my Jeremiah has Asperger's Syndrome, he takes things very literally. One of the characteristics of this Autism Spectrum Disorder is that these individuals do not know how to respond or interpret the play on words that we use in language. So when someone says, "That's just retarded." or something similar, he does not know how to take it.
I have individuals with autism and other related disabilities in my classroom. My students have become very protective (in a good way) of these friends. Learners from other classes have been calling some of these individuals "idiot".
Please help our students to be the kindest ones in the county. After all they are the next generation. Individuals with disabilities can enjoy a brighter future if we help to pave the way. Hurtful terms, many times are just ignorance. Let's educate our learners to be understanding, helpful, and kind.
I always tell my learners to remember that these children have parents and family that love them. If they say or do something hurtful to someone, they are affecting more than just that individual.
My Joshua, who has severe autism, may not be able to communicate with words but I can guarantee you that he knows when someone is starring or being unkind to him. It hurts his feelings just like it would anyone's. He just does not express that hurt in the typical ways.
I've taught my own children since they were very young that "the way that you treat your brother is the way that the world will treat him." If we are scared or embarrassed around him, then so will everyone else feel.
Just wanted to send this "food for thought".
Robyne Batson (April 29, 2006)
