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1. Treat a person with special needs as you would anyone else. Relax when communicating. Rely on natural courtesy, consideration and common sense. Avoid getting flustered or irritated if misunderstandings arise. Repeat yourself if you sense misunderstanding, or ask the person to repeat himself or herself if you do not understand.
2. Address the individual, not an assistant, interpreter or family member.
3. Treat adults with special needs as adults rather than as children, regardless of the situation.
4. Speak at a normal rate, without exaggeration or overemphasis.
5. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the person’s needs.
6. To facilitate communication, have pads of paper and pencils available in all meeting rooms and other gathering places on parish property. Use them when helpful.
7. Allow people to do things for themselves when they want to, even if it takes longer or results in mistakes. Do not always “do for” the person.
8. Offer assistance, but do not impose if help is not desired.
9. During all gatherings or meetings, allow time to attend to personal needs and rest. Be patient.
10. Respect the individual’s personal space and auxiliary aids. Do not lean against or push a wheelchair, pet a service animal in a harness, move wheelchairs, crutches, white canes or other assistive devices out of reach of a person who uses them.
©2000 Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications, 1800 North Hermitage Avenue, Chicago, IL 60622-1101. Compiled and edited by David Philippart from materials provided by the National Catholic Office for Persons with Disabilities, 415 Michigan Avenue NE, Suite 240, Washington, DC 20017-1557; 202-529-2933 (voice); 202-529-2934 (tty); 202-529-4678 (fax); [email protected]; Mary Jane Owen, Executive Director.
Parishioners who have special needs do not want our pity! On the contrary, they have gifts and talents to offer to the parish. Many times they are looking for opportunities to serve as committed baptized members of the Church. So, remember to include and invite all interested parishioners to participate in the roles of service which are most comfortable and compatible for them. Together we can make our parish a welcoming community of faith and love.