Cultural Arts Day at Mills Elementary School, Austin, Texas

Student learns how to use a signature guide to write his name under blindfold.

Have You Learned Something New Lately?

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to lose your hearing or sight? Have you ever wondered about the proper way to refer to someone with a disability? Children at Mill’s Elementary School were able to ask DARS staff and parent volunteers those questions and more during their Cultural Arts Day on March 10^th.

DARS staff Dottie Jackson, George Toone, Kristin Davis, Mohammed Moheeth, Kathy Hoke and Jackie Feinberg and parent volunteers held four sessions focused on experiencing what it’s like for someone with a disability to do everyday things. Some of the skills they learned included distinguishing coins by touch, using a braille clock, explaining an idea without speaking or writing and learning American Sign Language.

The students also learned how to interact with people with disabilities. For example, many people are unsure if it is polite to ask people about their disabilities. Sure, but it’s also okay for them not to want to talk about it. Another helpful tip is to not pet or play with Canine companions, such as guide dogs, so you don’t distract them from their work.

The children answered true and false questions in order to dispel myths about people with disabilities. For example, can a person with a mental impairment get a job? Sure. That’s a big part of what DARS is all about; assisting all people with disabilities to become successfully employed.

If you are interested in holding sessions at your school, church, or other civic group, contact Jackie Feinberg at (512) 424-4483 for a list of materials and instructions.