Who is a person with Short Stature?
A person with short stature is one with a medical or genetic condition that causes them to be considerably shorter than an average-sized man or woman. The average height of an adult with short stature is 4 feet.
Short Stature is considered to be a type of physical impairment, and will require accessibility adaptations.
How to refer to a person with short stature
Avoid
- Midget
- Munchkin
- Dwarf
- Stunted
Use
- Person of short stature
- Person with dwarfism (when appropriate)
- Little Person
Remember ask for the respectful word to refer to individuals of short stature in your local language since some local terms may be considered offensive. Use person first language when appropriate. Prioritize the individual and use their names.
Most importantly, ask the person of short stature which terms they prefer.
General tips on how to include people with short stature
- Know the right language to use or ask the terms that are preferred by the individual.
- Avoid condescending behavior such as tapping on the head or shoulders
- Be sure to treat adults with short stature as mature individuals, not as children.
Specific tips on how to include people with short stature in education/training
- Provide adjustable furniture in the classroom/training areas
- Provide a step-stool or footrest in the venue
- Ensure accessibility of the training venue and classroom
- Hang whiteboards/flip-charts/posters at a lower hight
Specific tips on how to include people with short stature in employment
- Include people with short stature in every step of decision-making processes
- Provide adjustable furniture to ensure accessibility of facilities
- Train colleagues on disability inclusion to foster better understanding of people with short stature.
- People with short stature will usually have difficulty walking long distances, so take this into account. Ensure access to transportation and any other support, if and as needed.