Valuing Every Child

Everyone loves to talk about the achievements of their children. Like the Garrison Keillor quote, “That’s the news from Lake Wobegon, where all the women are strong, all the men are good looking, and all the children are above average.” But what about the kids whose intellect and abilities aren’t “above average”? How can the church help every child feel valued and important in a world that is obsessed with athleticism and academic achievement?

Children with disabilities need to be seen first and always as children of God and image bearers of God. Starting at this point focuses our attention on God as the Great Inclusionist and helps us to see ourselves as the tools God uses to nurture his children.

Keeping our focus on this view of a child will ensure that we see the whole person—not merely a disability to accommodate or an inconvenient challenge. Learn all you can about the child’s likes and dislikes and what will foster a positive outcome for him or her. Chatting with the parents in this vein will help you learn techniques specific to the child’s needs. Does the child need quiet time to reset from an overstimulating environment?  Is there a specific way to redirect attention? You will want to know the relevant medical information and if an assistant is needed in the Sunday school room.

Also be sure to ask questions about the giftedness of the child. Is the child someone who likes to help? Take time to discover how this child’s gifts could be nurtured to bless the entire group.

—Nella Uitvlugt is the executive director of Friendship Ministries, whose mission is to share God’s love with people who have intellectual disabilities.