Love Through Inclusion

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and kindness, and what better way to do so than by showing love through inclusion and fostering a sense of belonging?

Inclusion means ensuring that everyone has a voice and belonging means having that voice be heard. Trying to include is a powerful and often easy way to positively impact someone’s life.

Sometimes, we might not know how to include people who seem different from us, which can make them feel as if they don’t belong.

Keep reading to learn tips for connecting with people with intellectual disabilities and how you can show love through inclusion every day.

Connecting with People with Intellectual Disabilities

Assume Competence

Believe in a person’s ability to communicate and learn. Assuming competence is the least dangerous assumption to make. Address the person directly, rather than their support person, and always consider their age when speaking with them. Avoid using baby talk or speaking down to them.

Use Your Usual Tone of Voice

Communicate in your usual tone of voice without shouting or raising your voice. Clear, steady speech helps ensure understanding, but there is no need to alter your natural way of speaking.

Don’t Assume Someone Needs Help

Refrain from assuming that a person with an intellectual disability needs assistance right away. Using a speech device or other communication aids can take time. Allow the person to process the information and respond at their own pace. If you still think someone could use help, ask before you act.

Ask for Clarification

If you don’t understand something, asking the person to repeat themselves is perfectly okay. Open and honest communication helps avoid misunderstandings and shows respect for the other person’s effort to communicate.

Laugh and Make Jokes

Engage with humour and light-heartedness, just as you would with anyone else. A good joke or a friendly banter can be a great way to connect.

Non-verbal Communication

In cases where the person does not use words to communicate, rely on body language, facial expressions, and eye contact. Physical touch, if welcomed, such as a hug,  high five or a handshake can also foster connection. Asking yes or no questions can simplify communication and ensure clarity.

It’s Not About Perfection

Your genuine effort to include someone is far more valuable than striving for perfection. Imperfect attempts to connect and include others are meaningful and show that you care. The key is to try your best and be open to learning and improving along the way.

Creating Inclusion Together

Inclusion is a beautiful way to show love and belonging and can make a meaningful impact on the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

We can create a more inclusive and loving community by practicing these simple tips. Let’s celebrate this Valentine’s Day by spreading kindness and understanding to everyone around us!

If you’d like to show some love to DASCH this Valentine’s, check out our fundraising campaign shared by Jeff, a DASCH community member who loves love and consider making a donation!