Welcome to The Ministry Lab's curated list of resources to help caregivers engage differently-abled persons in counseling and conversation around a variety of topics. Here you'll find:
If you don't find a resource to fit your need, don't hesitate to consult with The Ministry Lab's director, Rev. Emily Meyer, who is happy to assist you.
Ways to deal with common sensory issues (Disclaimer: This one uses the term ‘problem’ in inappropriate and unhelpful ways. However, the suggestions for mitigating sensory perception issues to develop more enjoyable social interactions are worthwhile, especially for families with multiple children and/or when working with groups of children.)
Telling the Story of Your Body for Healing and Wholeness
Our bodies have a story to tell. When we turn toward our bodies with curiosity and reverence, we honor those stories, embrace our inner dignity, and make space for more agency. Sharing our bodies’ stories helps us feel seen so that, little by little, society’s limiting master narratives can shift so that more bodies feel safe and beautiful and have a sense of belonging.
Resources include:
An Interactive Journal on Christian Social Justice
The Accessible Altar is a monthly podcast exploring the intersections of faith and disability. Robyn and Stephanie met in seminary and share a frustration with how the Christianity has allowed ableist ideas to shape how we think and preach about the bible, lead services, and practice theology. The website includes this list of additional resources.
Find wisdom and inspiration in the practices of Beloved Everybody, an Ability-Inclusive Church that Embodies the Beloved Community.
A Biblical Perspective on Trauma featuring Paul Cho
Bereavement In The Lives Of People With Intellectual Disabilities from the University of Hertfordshire
Find free curriculum, resources, and blog posts ranging from Setting up Kids Ministry Volunteers to Curriculum Adaptations [for] Kids with Special Needs to 5 Reasons Preschool Programming Is Not Childcare.
The National Disability Authority has an entire website offering news, research, and best practices for educators and others working with people with a disability. Their Appropriate Terms to Use may be an immediate aid.
Disability Ministries shares insight, ways congregations are engaging differently abled persons, and suggestions for furthering awareness and hospitality, including Language around Disability: An Invitation to Conversation.
