Words matter
The words we use shape how people see someone. They also shape how that person sees themselves.
Words work on us every time we hear them, in two ways:
- What we think. We notice this part. Words change what we think about someone.
- What we feel and expect. We don't notice this part. Words change what we feel and what we expect, without us knowing.
A label that starts with what someone can't do quietly lowers what people expect of them. A word that starts with what they can do raises it.
So we choose a word that puts strengths first.
What our adventurers can do
Many places would say our adventurers have “learning disabilities”. We say they have “exceptionalities”.
“Exceptionalities” puts the focus on what our adventurers can do and on the amazing things they bring to the world.
It does not start with what they find hard.
Who the club is for
The word does not change who the club is for.
If you might describe your child, or the adult you care for, as having a learning disability, this club is for them.