from other students often struggle with those differences, and like in Clay’s case, pre- teen boys especially dislike anything that makes them stand out. As Michael reminds his children that often those who are picking on them are insecure or have their own problems they are trying to mask, he also finds reassurance that the older and more mature they get, they more self-assured they become, able to shrug off what other people think or say. “What I hope parents and other students realize is there is nothing wrong with these kids,” said Michael. “There’s no reason to treat them any differently.” Living empowered Sell says the best part of her job is seeing students who have hearing loss succeed and compete at the same level as other kids, oftentimes thanks in part to the accommodations she and the district can provide. Being around typically-developing kids helps them believe in their own abilities to meet academic standards; and typically-developing kids gain empathy and understanding that will benefit them in life. “Mainstreaming any child with any need outside of the norm helps other students realize there are other people in the world,” said Sell. The normalization of ASL in the classroom, interpreters and other accommodations often inspires typically-hearing students to learn ASL, sometimes becoming deaf educators just like in Carter’s case, and teachers to incorporate ASL into everyday lessons. “There is a stigma of being aided, and we need more visibility and people not being ashamed of having hearing aids,” said Alex.
The Painters of Pompeii Roman Frescoes from the National Archaeological Museum, Naples Kids are always free. Closing Oct. 17! Free children’s admission is possible thanks to generous support from The Chickasaw Nation, The Ann Lacy Foundation, Cresap Family Foundation, and Chuck and Renate Wiggin.
This exhibiton is organized by the National Archaeological Museum, Naples and MondoMostre.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / SEPT-OCT 2021 57
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