ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Disability etiquette

Disabilities are things that can make it hard for some people to do certain things or participate in activities in the same way as others. Disability etiquette is all about being respectful and kind to people with disabilities, and understanding how to interact with them in a way that makes them feel comfortable and included.

One important thing to remember is that people with disabilities are just like everyone else, and they want to be treated with the same dignity and respect as anyone else. That means being patient and understanding when they need help with something, and not treating them like they're helpless or inferior.

Another important thing to remember is to be mindful of the language that you use when talking about disabilities. Some words or phrases can be hurtful or degrading, so it's important to use language that is respectful and inclusive. For example, instead of saying "disabled person" it's more appropriate to say "person with a disability."

When you meet someone with a disability, it's important to not make assumptions about what they can or can't do. Instead, ask them if they need any help or accommodation, and listen to their needs and preferences. Everyone is different, so it's important to treat each person as an individual.

Finally, it's important to remember that disabilities come in many different forms and can be both visible and invisible. This means that just because someone doesn't "look" disabled, it doesn't mean that they don't have a disability that affects their daily life. So always be respectful and understanding, and treat everyone with kindness and compassion.