This World Disability Day, the theme ‘Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future’ has us thinking about what it takes to help every child thrive regardless of their abilities. We know that early childhood is when children build the skills and confidence that shape the rest of their lives. For disabled children, this stage is critical, as it sets the foundation for their future learning, self-esteem, and social participation.
Focusing on what children are good at from their earliest years helps them grow in confidence, become more independent, and find their way to success. For a long time, special education mostly focused on what kids struggled with, but that’s changing. Now, there’s more focus on spotting and building on each child’s unique strengths, interests, and what drives them from within. When we do this, we help create more inclusive learning environments that help all children learn better.
Focusing on Strengths
Every child has something unique to offer. For instance, an autistic child may have an exceptional ability to focus on details, while a child with cerebral palsy may demonstrate impressive perseverance in overcoming physical challenges. These traits aren’t just lovely to notice. They form the foundation of children’s learning and growth. By recognising and cultivating them early, we encourage children to see themselves as capable rather than ‘broken’ or ‘lacking’.
Interests Lead the Way
Kids learn best when they’re doing something they’re excited about. Whether music, art, or storytelling, following their interests makes learning fun and natural. A child with a passion for music may benefit from adaptive instruments or rhythmic activities, even if they face motor challenges. A visually impaired child who enjoys storytelling can lose themselves in audiobooks or tactile story materials. By offering opportunities to explore subjects that interest them, children are more likely to develop a love for learning and to build skills in areas where they are motivated to succeed.
Ramit (name changed) was nine when his parents brought him to us at Sethu for guidance on developing his communication and reading. He’d just begun learning to use an Assistive-Augmentative Communication (AAC) device to communicate his needs. When we learnt that he loved jam, cars and bananas, we began teaching him to read these words when he asked for or was given these things. He picked them up in no time because they were his favourite things. We then moved to helping him read his name. Delighted with his progress, his parents used the same strategy to teach him shapes, colors and numbers. From there, he learnt to read the words on his AAC device. His father now teaches him to type the words he has learned to read. And it all began with his interests and motivation.By taking the time to observe what excites and motivates a child rather than forcing them into an ill-fitting mould, parents and teachers can create a more dynamic and responsive learning environment.
Building Motivation from Within
Motivation plays a big role in how children learn and develop. For disabled children like Ramit, building their intrinsic motivation — the inner drive to do things for their own satisfaction – can set them up for lasting success. Giving children choices of activities and a sense of control is a great way to encourage motivation. When they see their efforts paying off, they gain confidence and are more willing to take on new challenges.
Celebrating small wins and focusing on effort rather than just results is also important. A child struggling with reading might not become fluent right away, but praising them when they identify a few words can give them the encouragement they need to keep going. It teaches them that persistence matters and helps them stay motivated to learn and grow.
Raising Confident Leaders
Leadership isn’t just about big, bold moves. For children, it begins with small steps – feeling like they belong, knowing their efforts matter, and building the courage to try. It’s amazing what happens when we shift the focus from their challenges to what they can do – their strengths, interests and motivations. They start to see themselves as capable, valued, and ready to take on the world. Whether setting their own learning goals or taking pride in minor achievements, every little success adds to something bigger. By encouraging their abilities and passions, we don’t just help them grow; we build a more inclusive world where everyone’s contributions matter. This World Disability Day, let’s celebrate the uniqueness of every child in our lives. They are, after all, the leaders of tomorrow. The way we support them today will shape the world they step into.
Author Bio: Anusha Doshi is the Head of Inclusive Education at Sethu Centre for Child Development and Family Guidance, a non-profit that promotes family-centred services for children of all abilities and their families.