Register now or log in to join your professional community.
<p>As a teacher, how would you handle a child with a learning disability? What are the steps to take to ensure that the child stays on track?</p>
I agree with MR Peter Scott
The "OK" words these days Kathy are "INCLUSION" and "EMPOWERMENT". We know of course that there are a number of schools and colleges which specialise in educating children with learning disabilities. I work in one such establishment where all our youngsters have been diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), in particular Aspergers' Syndrome. Here at Priory our "Mission" is to support the children in mainstream colleges enabling them to gain educational qualifications. We also mentor them and teach Independent Living Skills to help them later in life. Throughout the whole mentoring/learning process we endeavour to ensure that the children have a say (empowerment) in everything that affects them and that they are treated in the same manner (inclusion) as more neuro-typical youngsters.
· In helping children with learning disability, first the teacher must understand that learning disability is not insurmountable.
· Secondly, the teacher must remember that any planning to be must be done in collaboration with the children with disabilities.
· Never plan for the child with disabilities focusing on the syllabus, more importantly, ensure your focus is primarily on developing the child to make him/her self-reliant to him/herself and to the larger society.
· Be a practical part of what you are teaching to the child and do regular evaluations.
