My mother contracted Polio as a toddler, so I never had a “normal” mother. She had a very pronounced limp and no use of her left arm/hand. So I’ve been touched by the effects of parents’ discomfort with their children’s innocent questions. When my daughter recently asked me why a little boy was using a walker, I told her it probably helps him to walk better. I didn’t whisper. It’s nothing to feel ashamed about. And when we “grown ups” hush our kids from respectful inquiry, we’re showing them we’re uncomfortable with someone who’s different.

We needn’t be and neither should our kids.