developmental disabilities

“Why do you talk like that?” I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class.

“It’s just the way I am.” I heard my sister-in-law wisely answer the curious boy. My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with Cerebral Palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech is different. Kara has been taught to answer “It’s just the way I am.” after years of questions about her differences.

Helping Children Understand Disabilities

I'm blessed to have a very warm-hearted little girl who so far has embraced every one she meets with open arms and a constant barrage of conversation. But like any other 4-year-old, MJ often has questions regarding the differences in other people, some for which I’m sure I don’t have the best answers. This was especially apparent when we were planning a get-together with a group of friends, one of whom has a little boy whose forearms did not develop while he was in the womb.

I was torn. Should I prepare her for his physical challenge beforehand, or would that just bring unnecessary attention to his disability? Or should I let her questions flow organically after she met him and be ready to answer on the spot?

Turns out, I was overthinking it, like I do with so many other things.

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Things to Do

Budding Artists Preschool Art Program

At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!

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Museum Babies Storytelling

Bring your babies and toddlers to this free story time at the Missouri History Museum.

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Storytelling in the Museum from the Missouri History Museum

Storytelling in the Museum is an in-person storytelling event happening at 10:30 a.m. at the Missouri History Museum. This event, perfect for the preschool set, features engaging stories with themes like Mardi Gras, geology, Black History Month, Groundhog Day and more. Storytelling in the Museum is free.

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Sensory Friendly Tuesday Tales at the APA of Missouri

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Sensory Friendly Storytime at the APA includes storytime and pet interaction for the littlest learners with accommodations for children who thrive in a calm setting.

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Dinoroarus at the Saint Louis Zoo

Dinoroarus is back for a limited time at the Saint Louis Zoo. This engaging attraction for all ages features 14 groupings of animatronic and stationary dinosaurs - colorful, prehistoric creatures that move realistically, some roaring and spiting or placidly munching on lush vegetation.

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Child development researchers at Washington University School of Medicine are inviting 4-7-year-old children and a caregiver to participate in a study investigating what children know about suicide along with risk factors for experiencing suicidality early in life. We are seeking children who have and who have not experienced suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Children who participate will 1) answer brief questions about their understanding of suicide (we want to learn what children at different ages know, we do not teach them anything new), 2) play games, and 3) complete a safe and non-invasive EEG. Caregivers will complete interviews and surveys. Families can earn up to $110 for participating. LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP HERE

We also have current studies for 12-14-year-old girls and their mothers. Check out our website or email us at childlab@wustl.edu.

In this thrilling blend of classical music and classic animation Bugs Bunny and his Looney Tunes pals join audiences of all ages at Stifel Theatre with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra for Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. A dozen of the world’s most iconic Looney Tunes—What’s Opera, Doc?, The Rabbit of Seville, Corny Concerto, Baton Bunny, Long-Haired Hare, and many others—plus five brand-new animated shorts—will be projected on the big screen, while their exhilarating original scores are played live by the SLSO, conducted by George Daugherty. Bugs Bunny at the Symphony will be presented on Saturday, May 11 at 7 p.m. at Stifel Theatre. LEARN MORE AND GET TICKETS.

Witness high-flying canine athletes, experience up-close encounters with farm animals, or visit adoptable cats and dogs all at the Purina Farms Visitor Center, located just 30 minutes west of St. Louis! Officially opening for the 2024 season on April 20 & 21, guests who visit opening weekend will get the first look at the newly renovated Visitor Center lobby. Visit on Saturdays this season to attend our NEW magic show focused on responsible pet ownership. Open mid-April to October, Wednesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Daily admission is free unless otherwise stated during a special event. We look forward to seeing you! LEARN MORE

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