Ableism | NEADS Staff DEI Resources

Appropriate Terms to Use about Disabilities

While there are varying preferences regarding disability terminology, there are some terms which should never be used as they are not respectful of disabled people. The below is not an exhaustive list, but is meant to provide some practical guidance and explanation for terms no longer in use and the recommended alternative.

13 Productive Ways To Support Neurodivergent Employees

Not everyone thinks the same way. Rather than aim for conformity of mind among their staff, business leaders should embrace more diverse approaches and thought processes. By offering unique perspectives and innovative solutions, neurodivergent employees can become key players at their companies.

How to Build and Support Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Imagine this scene: You’re interviewing a potential candidate for a role as a developer with your company. The candidate seems to have the skills you need but also displays a few social eccentricities – perhaps he has a tick, or rocks back and forth in his seat, or won’t make eye contact.

For decades, potential hires like this have been rejected from the candidate pool. “Poor culture fit” has typically been the rationale.

Should You Bend Over To Talk To Someone In A Wheelchair?

Have you ever wondered how to best have a conversation with someone using a wheelchair? How can I be more inclusive in conversations?

Ten ways to boost your communication skills with someone who is deaf

Tips and techniques for better communication with people who are deaf.

Communicating With Deaf Individuals

The ability to communicate defines us as human beings and as a society. It forms a foundation for decision making and relationship building. Communicating with deaf individuals is an achievable goal, even when accommodations (e.g., interpreters) are not present. The tools available to us are considerable and limited only by our desire to communicate and our creativity.

Tips for Communicating with People with TBI and PTSD

Not everyone has experience communicating with people with disabilities. However, it should not be intimidating. Appropriate etiquette when interacting with people with disabilities is based primarily on respect and courtesy.

The Dos & Don’ts When Interacting With Autistic Children

Autistic children are as individual as any children, so there aren’t set rules on how to interact with them. But there are some general things you can consider to increase the likelihood of positive experiences. This involves learning what not to do with an autistic child and what can help to promote healthy interactions. Like…

6 Tips for Interacting Positively with Children on the Autism Spectrum

Six tips for interacting positively with children with autism spectrum disorder: Be patient. Children with autism may need more time to process information. Be kind and flexible. They’re often less able to adapt to new situations. Use gestures or other ways to communicate besides words. Learn how to show interest and affection in ways they…

TEDxTalks: Our fight for disability rights and why we’re not done yet

Judith Heumann is an internationally recognized leader in the disability community and a lifelong civil rights advocate for disadvantaged people. In this TEDx Talk, she gives an historical perspective of discrimination against those differently abled.