Introduction
Mary Ingalls, the eldest sister of renowned author Laura Ingalls Wilder, is a shining example of a life touched by adversity yet surrounded by strength and perseverance. Born in 1865 and growing up in the American Midwest, Mary faced numerous obstacles in her young life. One of the most significant was her battle with scarlet fever, which left her blind at the age of 14. Teachers can use her story as an engaging way to teach students about overcoming adversity and embracing individual differences.
The Ingalls Family: A Pioneer Tale
To fully appreciate Mary’s story, it is essential to introduce students to the Ingalls family and their experiences as pioneers in the late 19th century. The family moved multiple times, navigating harsh winter conditions, financial struggles, and the onset of disease. In spite of these trials, the family bond remained strong and served as an invaluable source of strength for Mary.
The Impact of Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever, an infectious illness caused by streptococcus bacteria, was both widespread and potentially fatal during Mary’s time. When she contracted the disease around 1879, she lost her sight permanently – a reality that forever changed her life’s trajectory.
Adapting to Blindness
Despite this great obstacle, Mary’s desire to learn never waned. With her family’s support, she attended the Iowa College for the Blind (now known as Iowa Braille School) from 1881 to 1889. There she learned Braille, typing, sewing, music appreciation, and other critical skills that allowed her to thrive after graduation.
Incorporating Mary’s Story into Lesson Plans
When teaching about Mary Ingalls’ story in class, educators can emphasize several key themes:
1. Overcoming adversity: Discuss with students how difficult life must have been for Mary at different points in her story. Encourage them to brainstorm ways they can overcome obstacles and adapt to challenges.
2. Empathy and acceptance: Present the classroom as a safe environment for sharing personal experiences of adversity, encouraging open discussion about how different disabilities are viewed today and how they would have affected individuals in the past.
3. Disability awareness: Engage students in activities that promote understanding of different disabilities, including visual impairments. This may include sensory exercises, exposure to Braille materials or examination of assistive devices designed for people with low vision.
4. Family values and support: Discuss the importance of the Ingalls family’s love and support as Mary navigated life with blindness. Invite students to share stories of their own families helping them through challenges, and consider ways they can offer support to others in their lives facing adversity.
Conclusion
Mary Ingalls’ story presents a compelling portrait of resilience, determination, and positivity despite great personal hardship. By integrating her inspiring tale into their lesson plans, educators can provide students with valuable insight into overcoming adversity, promoting empathy, and fostering understanding of different abilities. Through these lessons, both young and old can find inspiration in the strength found within Mary Ingalls’ pioneering spirit.
