The first step toward inclusion in churches is developing a theology of disability. We need to understand why we do inclusion before we make a plan for how we’ll do it. It’s also important for parents of kids with disabilities to read and meditate on what Scripture says about disabilities. Let’s start with examining the…
Is your ministry welcoming & accessible? “Nearly every pastor (99%) and churchgoer (97%) says someone with a disability would feel welcomed and included at their church.” (Lifeway Research) What churches say they are doing: Three in 4 pastors (75%) say their church encourages volunteering in community events, like the Special Olympics, for people with disabilities….
What are invisible disabilities? Invisible or hidden disabilities include emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorders/diagnoses with no apparent physical symptoms or characteristics. Includes students with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Anxiety disorders Autism spectrum disorders Developmental disabilities Learning disabilities PDD NOS Oppositional defiant disorder Mood disorders (depression, bipolar) Attachment disorders (common in adopted and foster care children) Fetal…
Respite events are an important way the church can care for special-needs families and reach their communities. Our church offers respite events four times a year. We set our age limit from 5-15 and include typical siblings. We do different options for days of the week and times so more people get an opportunity to…
There are many pieces of practical advice I can give on being a buddy to an individual with special needs: Always make sure to grab your buddy bag, don’t take your eyes off your kiddo, notice how the class interacts with them, and work with the other ministry leaders through challenging behaviors. But something that…
How do we meet the needs of teenagers who aren’t comfortable in the youth group environment but want to build true friendships with peers? Our church offers a reverse inclusion class! This class is designed for students with disabilities and invites typical students from the youth group to join for the purpose of friendship….