RISE AND NYE'S TEAM MEMBER INTERACTION TIPS
People-First Language
Offensive Terms
- Handicapped
- Disabled
- Retarded
- Crippled or Quadriplegic
- Deaf and Dumb
- Mentally Different
- Autistic
- Epileptic
- Diseased
- Wheelchair-bound
- Emotionally Disturbed
- Normal or Healthy Kids
- Dwarf or Midget
- A “Patient”
- A “Case” or “Client”
- Slow
- Infirmed
- Unfortunate
- “Suffers from”
- “Victim of”
Offensive Phrases
Here are a few ways to respectfully reword phrases:
- Instead of “a disabled person,” say “a person with disabilities”
- Instead of “a special needs person,” say “a person with special needs”
- Instead of “wheelchair-bound person,” say “a person in a wheelchair”
- Instead of “autistic person,” say “a person with autism”
- Instead of “dwarf or midget,” say “a person of short stature”
- Instead of “normal or healthy kids,” say “typical kids or kids without disabilities”
The key thing to remember is to put the person first. They are not their disability; they are first and foremost a person with feelings and emotions just like you.
General Tips for Communicating
When offering assistance to a person with a disability, wait until your help is accepted and then ask how you can best assist them.
Address them just as you would any other person.
It is acceptable to offer a handshake during introductions even if the other person has limited mobility in their hand or has an artificial limb.
Do not alter your voice or speak in a simplified, childish manner.
If an interpreter is present, speak directly to the person and not their interpreter.
Do not lean on anyone’s wheelchair.
Do not interact with service animals without asking first.If the person with whom you are speaking has a visual disability, make sure you identify yourself and any people who may be accompanying you.
Be patient if the person with whom you are speaking has trouble understanding you. Do not get frustrated or raise your voice in an unpleasant way.
Preventing and Handling Uncomfortable Situations
If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Some signs of overstimulation include: yelling, screaming, crying, extreme fidgeting, fearful looks and / or aggressive behavior. If this happens, redirect them to a quieter location and notify the manager on duty.
Maintain your composure and speak kindly at all times.
Never go off alone with one of the team members. Make sure you maintain physical boundaries and don’t in any way encourage a team member to view you as their boyfriend / girlfriend.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, please email or contact:
OR
Rise & Nye's
1534 State St.
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-217-6449