by Alexandra Young, Temple Shalom in Broomall   One thing I learned from Wendy Elliott-Vandivier is that someone with a disability doesn’t define who they are as a person and doesn’t mean they are incapable of doing things people do. This can be from asking what happened to you to parking in a wheelchair accessible space when not needed. There is also nothing wrong with using the word disabled. There is something called person-first language and disability-first language. It depends person to person what they prefer. Just because they are in a wheelchair doesn’t mean they are incapable. And that [...]

by Rosalia Gifford, Ohev Shalom of Richboro   I have really enjoyed participating in the TAP program.  Through my experience, I have gained new friends and learned new ways to work with children, both in the classroom and also at my karate dojo.  One technique that I have learned is how to appropriately redirect children to focus on the teacher or instructor.  For instance, saying something along the lines of ¨pay attention¨ or ¨focus¨ isn't helpful.  Insead, what you should say something along the lines of ¨right now it is important to listen to what is being said so you [...]

by Sarah Tobin, Temple Sholom in Broomall I feel like in our world today too many people exclude people who have a disability. Yes I think we have improved in past years but it’s not enough. We need everyone to be on the same page and to include everyone. I admire people with a disability whether someone has autism or is on the spectrum everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. I truly believe any child who has a disability should be given the same chance to learn as any other child is given. Too many times have [...]