Last week, I went to a primary school to deliver my Disability Awareness for Kids workshops. The children were taking part in a Disability Awareness week but I was apprehensive about their reaction to me; a lady in a wheelchair who didn’t speak especially clearly. I realised that talking to a group of children was much more nerve wracking than a room full of adults.

But I needn’t have worried at all. The children were very receptive and I could tell from their reaction that they were understanding me. I explained all about my own disability, Cerebral Palsy, and then talked generally about other disabilities. I really wanted the kids to understand that disability isn’t bad – it’s actually a positive thing that we’re all different, disability or not.

It’s important that children are encouraged to ask questions and have them answered as honestly as possible. I expected questions like, “How fast does your wheelchair go?” or “What’s it like to be in a wheelchair?”   But I was blown away by some of the thoughtful, sensitive questions that some of the kids asked.

“Do you like being so independent?”, came one. I was glad that the children realised that being in a wheelchair wasn’t limiting me in any way. One question puzzled me to begin with, “Do you intend to make your own community?” I wasn’t sure what the pupil meant at first but with a little cajoling and input from his teacher, I realised what he meant. I explained to him that part of Flyinglady’s aim is to help other disabled people to achieve as much as I have and that I would be working on this aspect of my business in the future.

The children kept the questions coming and always seemed content with my straight forward, honest answers. They were especially surprised to hear that I have a little boy of my own and am releasing my own book, “Does it wet the bed?”, shortly. I left each classroom with clapping and a chorus of “thank-you” ringing in my ears. It’s always good to know that I’ve made a difference.

From September 2015, the Disability Awareness for Kids sessions will be available for free to schools in the Birmingham area. To book your session, please Contact Flyinglady.