Providing an Inclusive Place of Worship

Churches and ministries are becoming more inclusive for families with special needs. Many families are looking for the comfort and healing that church can provide when dealing with disabilities. Those with disabilities have typically been welcomed in the church, but the church hasn’t always understood how to embrace those with disabilities as far as adaptation and accessibility are concerned.

For Parents: Finding the Right Ministry

Here are some things to look for when evaluating a place of worship for special needs accommodations:

• Visible handicapped parking spots with curb ramps at the entrances
• Handicapped accessible doors and restrooms.
• Meeting rooms and other rooms where children might be are child-friendly
• Playground equipment, if any, is handicapped-accessible and inclusive of all skills and abilities
• Interior lighting is soft
• Noises, such as music and intercom systems, are not overly loud

Some of these things are already legally required due to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Churches must be wheelchair accessible with wide enough doorways and ramps to access entrances, exits, and bathrooms. An extensive list of handicapped accessibility requirements can be found here.

For Churches: How To Be Inclusive

One of the first questions you can ask yourself is “What can we do to help?” Whether children have visual impairments, hearing deficits, require the use of a wheelchair, or having a learning disability, they all want to be accepted for who they are. These children have many things in common with all children and are often typical learners. Socializing and quickly making friends is one of the many gifts of children. Take time to look through your program and identify any barriers that might prevent a special needs child from participating in worship. Based on the children in your group, you may have to make an individualized adaptation to your curriculum.  Never hesitate to speak to a parent if you are not sure how to adapt; opening the lines of communication are often refreshing to a special needs parent.

Help other parishioners get educated by:

• Offering classes in disability awareness and disability friendly manners
• Purchasing books for the church library that show children with disabilities
• Having people share their life stories about their disabilities
• Interviewing a special needs family that is excited to be part of the church and publish the interview (with permission) on the church website or newsletter

Are you a special needs ministry or parent of a special needs child?  Share your ideas and experiences on our Facebook page.