The universal symbol for disability is an interesting one. Most people know that it means “disability” but many people with developmental disabilities think it applies only to people who use wheelchairs. There is no symbol that represents developmental disabilities.

Finishing the picture
So, after all these “do nots,” what do you choose. First, second, third and last, keep your pictures very realistic, even if you think you could find some that are more interesting. Keep them large enough that they are easy to see (remember how many people have vision problems). And label anything that does not tell a clear story.

When I say keep them representational, I really mean it. It is surprising how often a minor detail can lead people off on a tangent.

There is a British company, called Photosymbols Ltd., which sells a package of photos on discs, designed for use with people who have developmental disabilities. The models are all people with developmental disabilities and support staff. Many of the photos are very useful, although there are a number which are particularly British— policemen, job centres, post boxes and such like. But the collection is increasing all the time.

Photosymbols Ltd. has a website at www.photosymbols.com.