People First Language

Have you heard of this? I learned about it while in school a few years ago and now more than ever I'm realizing its importance. It is a type of language that acknowledges that all people are people first, and not defined first by their disability. By you making an effort to becoming sensitive to, and aware of the respectful way of referring to, or talking to people with disabilities, you'll make a difference. So here are some tips :

Disability: a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities
Handicap: a physical attitudinal constraint that is imposed upon a person. Describes a situation or a barrier imposed by society, the environment or oneself.

• Say "person with a disability" instead of a disabled person
• Don't assume that if a person is slow of speaking they don't understand you or can't communicate.
  
• When working with individuals in wheelchairs don't use their chair as an arm rest and do your best to get to their level.
• Direct your questions to the individual not the aid/caretaker/ companion, if you want to talk to the individual
  
• Ask the person if they need help, don't just jump in and do it without their consent
  
• Don't throw the word retarded around. Use the terminology: people with developmental delays.
• Refer to people who do not have a disability as Typically developing instead of Normal. Honestly, who of us is reeeeaaallly normal, just saying.
• Treat adults with disabilities as adults.
• Be patient and attentive when interacting with persons with disabilities.
  

It's part of being in relationships. Learning how to communicate with each other in a respectful manner. Hope this helps!

I was on my way home and saw this and had to stop and take a picture. I've never seen one before. Thought it was pretty cool.