Understanding Childhood Disability: The Six F-Words

When it comes to understanding childhood disability, it’s time we shift the narrative — from focusing on limitations to celebrating possibilities. The “Six F-Words for Childhood Disability”, developed by CanChild and beautifully adapted for Indian contexts by the Latika Roy Foundation, offer a powerful, neuroaffirming framework to view children through their strengths, relationships, and aspirations.

Here’s what the F-Words are all about:

1. Function

“I might do things differently, but I can do them. How I do it isn’t important — just let me try.”

Children with disabilities might move, speak, learn, or play differently, but that doesn’t make them any less capable. Rather than expecting them to do things in a typical or conventional way, we can support their own path — with encouragement and dignity.

2. Family

“They know me best and I trust them to do what’s best for me. Listen to them. Talk to them. Hear them. Respect them.”

Families are the primary support system for children. Their insight, knowledge, and love make them key partners in every intervention or support plan. It’s time we move beyond tokenism and make family voices central in decision-making.

3. Fitness

“Everyone needs to stay fit and healthy — including me. Help me find ways to stay active.”

Fitness isn’t just about gym routines or sports — it’s about holistic well-being. Children with disabilities have a right to be healthy and strong, and they need inclusive, enjoyable ways to stay active.

4. Friends

“Having childhood friends is important. Please give me opportunities to make friends.”

Friendship is the heart of childhood. Yet, many children with disabilities are left out of play, school groups, or community activities. Creating inclusive spaces where genuine friendships can blossom is essential for emotional and social development.

5. Fun

“Childhood is about fun and play. That’s how I learn and grow. Help me do activities that I enjoy.”

Play is not optional. It’s how children learn, connect, and thrive. For children with disabilities, access to meaningful and joyful play must be considered a priority — not a luxury.

6. Future

“I will grow up one day. Help me find ways to become independent and be included in my community.”

Every child has potential. And every child deserves a future filled with purpose, independence, and inclusion. Let’s shift the focus from “fixing” the child to enabling opportunities for them to build a life of dignity.

Why These F-Words Matter

This framework gently but powerfully urges professionals, educators, and families to rethink how they engage with children with disabilities. Rather than emphasizing deficits or diagnoses, the six F-Words center the child’s agency, family context, and right to inclusion. It’s an empowering approach that aligns beautifully with neurodiversity-affirming values.

About the Creators

The original concept of the “F-Words” was developed by CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, based in Canada. The Latika Roy Foundation, a leading voice for disability inclusion in India, has adapted and illustrated these principles to resonate with Indian families — creating this vibrant and relatable poster.

We are deeply grateful to both CanChild and Latika Roy Foundation for this invaluable contribution to inclusive thinking in disability.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other intellectual disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can call or what’s app us. Our counselors speak different languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.