I remember being in the NICU with Jade one day. Her diagnosis was days new and we were reeling– trying to learn everything we could about Down syndrome as quickly as we could. I remember talking to Peter and trying to explain something but I couldn’t find the words. “I don’t know how to say it,” I said, “I don’t like saying ‘normal’ babies because that implies that Jade is not normal and that doesn’t feel right to me.”
I was trying to find words to refer to kids without Down syndrome but I didn’t know what to say. Peter gave me the word for it. He said, “you can just say ‘typical.'” Typical kids or typical babies, referring to the 46ers… those without Down syndrome.
The word “typical” felt much better to me, so that’s what I use. Some people say neurotypical, but I personally prefer typical (it’s just easier to say!)
If you hear me talk about kids in Jade’s class and I need to identify them as not having Down syndrome (since she’s the only one in her class with it… in her whole school, in fact!), I will often refer to them as her typical peers.
This is a preference thing for me. “Normal” never felt right nor does it sound right. If you remember, please try not to refer to people unlike Jade as “normal.” It hurts a little bit.
That’s it. That’s my PSA for today. I’m done now. 😊
As always, if you are coming from a place of love and good intention (as I truly believe most people are!), then I will not be offended. And I will likely not correct you… because confrontation like that makes me uncomfortable. I’m working on it. 🤷🏼♀️
Love love love to each and every one of you.
💙💛
Star-Eyed Girl 