Fair is not always equal!

 

For your copy click here!

I really like this poster! It shows that kids who require speech (or any kind of therapy) are getting what they need. Not everyone will need (speech) therapy but those who do need need it to start on a level playing field. 

I like the glasses analogy- If 1 person require spectacles and another doesn't, does the person who has glasses have an unfair advantage? NO! It is the extra bit of support a person requires to see the same as a person who doesn't require glasses. Not fair, but equal!~

Occasionally, I will have teachers saying "well, its not fair to the other kids!" Meaning the kids who come to speech therapy have an unfair advantage. 

They get pulled out, they usually get a reward, and then they get to play a game. Other kids, and staff, can see this an a reward.

 No, its not! The other kids may not need the same support! One way to get around it is push-in therapy, or language centers in the classroom! A good argument supporting push-in therapy, that way students don't leave the classroom!

Don't get me wrong, there is a time and place for pull out therapy, too!

Read this 

on inclusive practices for more info! 

Just remember everyone gets what they need to be able to be successful socially and academically, its only ethical!

Ok, I will get off my soap box....

Enjoy your weekend!!

Cheers,

Mindy

 

People first language, Labels & Kindness!

I often hear people say the autistic child or a Down's baby and it is like nails on a chalkboard for me!!
UGGHH!

So please be patient as I take a minute to educate!

People first language is the "correct" (& kind) way to refer to people with disabilities (see what I did there? I focused on the person first and the disability second) instead of saying autistic child try saying child with autism... Or just say child and do away with all of the label!!

I thought this was a great bit of information to put out to the "speech world" since typically, some of your students can have different diagnoses and disabilities. Something to keep in mind with the upcoming caseload and upcoming school year.

 Another tidbit of info there is a difference between a disability and handicap. Disability is autism & a handicap is whatever the disability prevents you from being able to do. For example if you use a wheelchair your disability might be cerebral palsy or being a paraplegic and the handicap are stairs or any other places that aren't wheelchair friendly.

For some Down Syndrome tidbits click here!! Thanks to Down Syndrome International!

😊 Thanks for listening!
Cheers,
Mindy



Clip art source- Can Stock Photo.