JCBDD visits fifth graders to discuss our differences

MINGO JUNCTION -- Students at Indian Creek Middle School heard about differences in people, as they took part in the Listen and Learn Speaker Series.

The Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, along with Special Connections, Special Needs Parents of the Ohio Valley Facebook Page and Crossroads Christian Church, sponsored sessions at various schools throughout the county in recognition of National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Representatives have traveled to Steubenville, Wintersville and Mingo Junction to spread the word about diversity.

Speakers Alycia Clark and Kristina Gabel visited fifth-grade students through a similar program last year. The duo returned March 21 to share their message using the book, "The ABC's of Disabilities."

The women questioned the students about how they would treat someone who had limitations, saying people learn and function in different ways. The purpose of the lecture was to help children understand others who may have a physical or learning disability.

Clark stated people may eat or communicate differently, with students being asked about alternate methods of speaking. Responses ranged from sign language to Morse code.

Clark stated smiling and waving are types of gestures, as well.

"When somebody smiles at you, doesn't it feel good to smile and wave?" Clark asked her audience. She noted her son, Oliver, used an alternative communication device similar to an iPad, enabling him to speak. "There are different ways of communicating other than words."

Gabel took questions from the audience about autism spectrum disorder, which she said can affect people differently. She discussed how Braille is found throughout the community to assist the blind, even at ATM machines and around the school building. She stated having such amenities indicates accessibility for those in need.

Students were asked how they could help someone with a disability, to which one student responded, "Be kind."

"Sometimes it's easier to communicate slower," Gabel continued. "Ask to help out of respect. It's to show respect to others. We believe everyone is capable, and some people do things in their own way. The biggest thing you could do is be kind."

Clark remarked individuals with disabilities can participate in sports and organizations, such as the Miracle League and Special Olympics, which were established to facilitate this participation.

"All of the athletes have developmental or physical challenges, and activities are made more accessible to them," Clark said. Gabel interjected that people can get involved by playing in co-ed leagues, such as Unified Sports and taking part in inclusive events.

The speakers asked for letters of the alphabet corresponding with physical or developmental challenges within the book. They then explained what these meant.

After more discussion, Clark said they hoped to return to speak with students at the school next year.

Principal Holly Minch-Hick questioned students on what they learned from the program. She told students to consider how difficult it would be to perform tasks if they had to function with a sprained ankle or a broken hand. That consideration should be given to others who have even greater challenges, she stated.

"When we talk about disability, it just limits your ability to do things the same way as other people," Minch-Hick added. "It can be difficult to communicate and express how they feel."

Students said they took away some valuable lessons from the program.

"It was very inspiring," Aubrey Johnson said.

"I learned you should respect everybody," added Kaylee Messerly.

"I learned a lot about different disabilities," commented Lucy Phelps.

"I learned other people can have disabilities but it doesn't make them different from anybody else," stated Kayla Renner.

The speaker series has been held throughout the month within the Steubenville City and Indian Creek Local school districts. The purpose was to bolster allies and advocates while at a young age.

Among the schools visited were Pugliese West Elementary, Wells Academy, East Garfield Elementary, Cross Creek Elementary and McKinley STEM Academy.