Ethnographic Observation

Butterflies, nerves, and excitement all built around the anticipation of meeting my assigned family in hopes of understanding the needs and experiences of having a child who has a disability. Everything changed when I saw a bright, young face anxiously looking out the window waiting for the expected company. At that point, I felt a sigh of relief. The door opened to a house filled with energy, excitement, and curiosity. I immediately felt relaxed and welcomed. Together, my partner and I shared and evening filled with questions, discussions, and entertainment. The youngest child was very excited to have company and be the amusement, making ghosts out of blankets, running back and forth, and being a typical, fun, energetic four year old.

            Sitting quietly and content in a rocking chair was the reason for our visit. D is an 11 year old boy who has Down Syndrome, which doesn’t allow him to verbally communicate. D uses a computerized device that enables him to communicate through pictures and sounds. The mini-computer allows him to create sentences, words, or show pictures of things or experiences in his life. Having never seen a machine like this, I was very interested and amazed at the technology. To better show us how the computer works, D’s mother asked him to show us a picture of his teacher. At first it seemed that D didn’t want to, but after a couple of minutes he navigated his way through the various categories arriving at a picture of his teacher. The computer is touch screen with keyboard and mouse hook-ups. Both parents agreed that D doesn’t use the computer as much as they would like, but they are working on improving that. Their hope over time is that D will rely on the computer to communicate independently as he gets older. His parents explained that learning American Sign Language, will not necessarily help D when he is older. The example they used was that if D went into Wal-Mart chances are that nobody would understand sign language, where as the computer would allow D to make complete sentences at the touch of a button.

            The family was very open about expressing their opinions and experiences with having a child who has a disability. Both parents agreed that their school experiences have been very positive and helpful. He attends school, where he is part of the inclusion program. The mother did explain that she understands that inclusion is not easy on the teacher and that it would be accommodating if someone’s job was to create curriculum with the teacher. She also stated the best experience for D was when a teacher’s aid went above and beyond for D. The family understands that there are challenges and difficulties related to having a child who has a disability, but Parents Reaching Out has been a great resource for information.

            It was great getting to know the family and to learn a little bit about how they live each day as a family. It shows in their personalities that they strive for their children’s success through fostering, nurturing, and guiding them. Being active in a program like Families as Faculty shows this family’s involvement in education and the importance of sharing their experiences with others.