6 Ways to Be Inclusive
As a Neighbour
6 Ways to Be Inclusive
as a Neighbour
Supporting kids with disabilities takes all of us.
Neighbours, parents and community alike. Let’s work together to shape communities where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.
6 Ways to Be Inclusive as a Neighbour (Text Version)
1
Don’t stare, Don’t judge
Meltdowns aren’t tantrums. Staring or tutting only adds stress — for the child and their parent/caregiver.
Normalise different behaviours in public spaces. When a child is stimming, having a meltdown, or using an assistive device, don’t stare. Instead, model calm acceptance — especially for your own kids.
2
Mind your words
Curiosity is human — but kindness is better. Avoid saying things like “what’s wrong with them?” Instead, try “are they alright?” or “is there anything I can do?”
Speak up when needed. If someone else is being unkind, dismissive or judgemental, say something — or offer quiet solidarity to the caregiver.
Being an ally isn’t just about intention, it’s about action.
3
Make shared spaces more inclusive
At playgrounds or parties, check if activities are accessible and welcoming for all.
Don’t just include — involve. A simple invite can mean a lot, but it also matters how you invite. Take a moment to ask the child (or their caregiver) what they’re comfortable with.
Sometimes, that might mean adapting a game or creating quieter corners. Small changes can help every child feel like they truly belong.
4
Offer help discreetly
If you see a parent struggling (e.g. carrying things while managing a child in distress), offer support with no pressure.
“Would it help if I held the lift?” or “Need a hand with your groceries?” goes a long way.
5
Help Your Kids Be Friendly & Respectful
Kids are observant — and honest. If they point out someone who moves, speaks or acts differently, don’t shush them.
Instead, guide the moment with something like “Everyone’s brains and bodies work differently. That kid might need help with some things, just like you do sometimes.”
Encourage your child to smile, wave or simply be kind. That’s how empathy grows.
6
Respect Boundaries
Not all help is helpful.
Don’t offer parenting advice or compare their child to yours. Instead, let them take the lead in how much they want to share. Every family and child is different.
Don’t assume bad parenting or that a child is being “difficult.” There’s often more going on than meets the eye.
Assume the best, not the worst
Not every outburst is misbehaviour. Sometimes, what looks like “bad behaviour” is actually sensory overload, frustration or anxiety.
As neighbours, we can help create a community where children with disabilities feel relaxed and accepted — especially when around other kids. By choosing understanding over judgement, we help children feel welcome and parents feel supported. That’s how a neighbourhood becomes home.
6 Ways to Be Inclusive as a Neighbour
1
Don’t stare, Don’t judge
Meltdowns aren’t tantrums. Staring or tutting only adds stress — for the child and their parent/caregiver.
Normalise different behaviours in public spaces. When a child is stimming, having a meltdown, or using an assistive device, don’t stare. Instead, model calm acceptance — especially for your own kids.
2
Mind your words
Avoid saying things like “what’s wrong with them?”
Instead, try “are they alright?” or “is there anything I can do?” Curiosity is human — but kindness is better.
Speak up when needed. If someone else is being unkind, dismissive or judgemental, say something — or offer quiet solidarity to the caregiver.
Being an ally isn’t just about intention, it’s about action.
3
Make shared spaces more inclusive
At playgrounds or parties, check if activities are accessible and welcoming for all.
Don’t just include — involve. A simple invite can mean a lot, but it also matters how you invite. Take a moment to ask the child (or their caregiver) what they’re comfortable with.
Sometimes, that might mean adapting a game or creating quieter corners. Small changes can help every child feel like they truly belong.
4
Offer help discreetly
If you see a parent struggling (e.g. carrying things while managing a child in distress), offer support with no pressure.
“Would it help if I held the lift?” or “Need a hand with your groceries?” goes a long way.
5
Help Your Kids Be Friendly & Respectful
Kids are observant — and honest. If they point out someone who moves, speaks or acts differently, don’t shush them.
Instead, guide the moment: “Everyone’s brains and bodies work differently. That kid might need help with some things, just like you do sometimes.”
Encourage your child to smile, wave or simply be kind. That’s how empathy grows.
6
Respect Boundaries
Not all help is helpful.
Don’t offer parenting advice or compare their child to yours. Instead, let them take the lead in how much they want to share.
Every family and child is different. Don’t assume bad parenting or that a child is being “difficult.” There’s often more going on than meets the eye.
Assume the best, not the worst
Not every outburst is misbehaviour. Sometimes, what looks like “bad behaviour” is actually sensory overload, frustration or anxiety.
As neighbours, we can help create a community where children with disabilities feel relaxed and accepted — especially when around other kids.
By choosing understanding over judgement, we help children feel welcome and parents feel supported.
That’s how a neighbourhood becomes home.
Let’s create a Singapore where children feel welcome and parents feel supported in their neighbourhoods.
This SG60, do more than just believe in inclusion – power it.
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