Dispelling Myths


Perceptions about children with  varying abilities are teeming with myths and misconceptions. Often  misinformation is rooted in lack of knowledge, fear of the uncertain, or  the presence of incorrect, often negative, stereotypes. As an early  childhood professional, you have the responsibility to be knowledgeable  of varying abilities and must take direct action to correct other’s  misperceptions in order to both foster anti-bias attitudes and actions  and better serve and support children with varying abilities and their  families.

Consider some of the  misinformation that surrounds the nature and characteristics of what  have been termed “disabilities” and you will evaluate your own  perspectives and insights with regard to working with children with  varying abilities.

Think about the key information all early  childhood professionals should know about each of the varying abilities  and then, reflect on the following questions:

  • How well were you able to identify and explain the misconceptions and assumptions evident in the statements?
  • What have you learned about yourself and your perceptions of children with varying abilities?
  • What other varying abilities might you want to learn more about in order to have a more anti-bias attitude and belief system?
  • What might be the consequences of stereotyping children with  varying abilities? For families? Other significant adults in children’s  lives? Children with whom they interact? The children themselves?

See the links below to support your response:

https://www.nccp.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/text_816.pdf

https://www.naeyc.org/sites/default/files/globally-shared/downloads/PDFs/resources/position-statements/advancingequitypositionstatement.pdf

https://www.parentcenterhub.org/