I've shared about my 6 year old daughter on here before. She has a rare gene disorder and as a result, she is immobile and uncommunicative. Her intellectual capabilities are very low, probably around that of a 1-1.5 year old. She is an absolute joy to be around.

I was with my parents a couple weeks ago in Utah. We had gone out with them to do some shopping and get some lunch. My mom pulled me aside later and commented that she didn't realize how many people awkwardly stare at my daughter. She sits in an adaptive stroller/wheelchair and it is obvious she is impaired. Her head often droops, she drools, and she usually is making some kind of grunts or other noises (she squeals with delight when she gets really happy) that are totally normal for her, but very abnormal to people who aren't used to them. It used to bother me more, but now I realize that it's natural for people who are seeing something they don't see very often and is unexpected. It's pretty natural for people to wonder about her and stare as a result, especially kids (but you'd be surprised how many adults stare too). Honestly, I'm kind of used to it by now and don't think much of it. But it was a bit shocking for my mom.

A week later, we were with my wife's family. Her sister has 3 daughters ranging from 8 to 14 and they absolutely love my daughter. They always have, and they are so sweet with her. When at home, my daughter spends a lot of time playing on the floor. They will cuddle up right next to her and talk to her. They'll play with her hair, hold her hands, and tickle her. They'll sit her up and snuggle with her, or do her hair. Honestly, just writing about how much love they give her is making me emotional. It got me thinking about how so many people have a hard time knowing how to interact with her and other people who have disabilities, especially mental disabilities.

Every person is different. I can't speak for other people and their children with disabilities and how they might want people to interact with them. But I know that for me and my daughter, I love it when people come and interact with her in some kind of meaningful way. Something more than staring. Introducing themselves, saying hello, getting down on her level. I love it when people come and sit next to her at church and ask her how she's doing (even though she can't respond). Obviously, it's different if it's a stranger versus someone who knows her well, but making some kind of meaningful effort to have a personal interaction with her is fantastic. Heck, even a simple smile instead of a weirded out stare means a lot to me.

If you see a stranger with an obvious impairment, try not to stare. Say hello, give them a smile. If the situation is appropriate, introduce yourself to them or their caretaker. If you know someone (maybe in your family or your ward) who has a disability, make it a point to greet them at church or events. Give a warm greeting, on their level. Ask how they are doing, even if they can't respond. Obviously, each person is different, so ask their caretaker how you can best interact with them. It can make a world of difference for that person and their caretakers.