Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
When a handful of parents complained that the host of a British children's television show was scaring young viewers, comments exploded on Internet message boards -- some so vicious they had to be removed.
Cerrie Burnell, 29, who was born with one arm, sparked heated message board debate after she was hired a month ago to appear on CBeebies, the BBC's digital children's channel.
Boy! how narrow minded can some people be? I agree with the host and all of her supporters, when they say this is a teaching oppertunity for parents. Yes, some kids are going to be scared at first, but with good explanations about this woman's missing arm, there is no reason why they should continue to be scared of her or anyone else who is different. Fear is a big part of why people are bigoted and racist and ignorance is another.
Good grief, a lot of kids see way worse on the tube than some gal without an arm.
what narrowminded parents that can't simply say oh yes that may seem scary to you , but look how much she does and is teaching about on the show! Kids are curious and a simple, thoughtful kind answer will normally resolve any issue reagarding a 'handicap'. I guess a lot of parents everywhere are just getting too stupid to teach compassion. Heck, something, whatever... but this is just sad.
If more people were exposed to others with disabilities it would NOT be such a shock when you see someone 'different.'
I remember going to college and we had quite a few students who were in wheelchairs or had CP or other disabilities. It was a bit disturbing to me because children were not mainstreamed then like now.
By all means, we need to see more of people who are 'different' especially as children to become more sensitive and tolerant.
Why does tv have to be full of talking bobble heads? Show someone a pound overweight or bald or whatever and someone has something negative to say!
I can't help thinking it is the parents who are having problems with the handicapped person. Usually kids aren't so shallow.
Exactly...children may question the difference (s)but once answered that is it and they take the person as they are. Children are usually more understanding then the so called adults. At least if they come from homes that foster caring and respect.
Years ago, there was an anchor woman called Bree Walker in Los Angeles, who had a deformed hand. When she was pregnant lots of people weighed in and said she shouldn't have the baby. I think it was genetic or something.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
. I think it was genetic or something.
