In the United States, nearly 3 million children ages 5 to 17 are living with a disability. 

Far too many of these children and their families feel isolated from others in the community.

In many cases, it is not the disability that causes isolation, but the physical barriers or hurtful treatment of others. Half a families of children with disabilities contribute their social isolation to discrimination they have experienced.

While physical barriers can’t always be overcome, negative attitudes can.

Every day, people living with disabilities find themselves being stared at – simply because they look or act different. While often a harmless curiosity, these stares can contribute to the isolation that a child and his or her family may feel.

Change Starts With the Simplest Action: A Smile.

The Smile, Don’t Stare campaign is working to turn those stares into smiles. Everyone knows the universal power of a smile in connecting with dear friends or distant strangers. And for a person living with a disability, a simple smile can help shift the tide from isolation to inclusion.

Help Us Build a Movement.

It is OK for a person to be curious when they first meet someone with a disability, and it is common to feel unsure about what to say, or how to act – afraid, perhaps of saying the wrong thing. The Smile, Don’t Stare campaign is designed to help people better understand, and communicate with those living with a disability.

Let’s Start Today.

There are many ways to join the movement, but the first action is simple: the next time you meet a person with a disability, look directly at them and smile.

• Business owners can sign up for a disability etiquette workshop.
• Those interested in sponsoring the campaign or exploring more of the free, educational resources can visit www.ryansplacefoundation.org or call (301) 216-3835.
• Everyone can spread the word and join the conversation on the Ryan’s Place Foundation Facebook page.