Parents with special needs children find themselves in problematic situations as they search for special schools. It’s even more problematic when you are considering mainstreaming or activities that comprise of different children. For instance, in the event of a tour, the tour guide, parent, or coordinator may not offer a special needs version of the trip on many occasions. Instead, they consider the general audience.
However, there are schools that take care of kids with special needs. This school aims to empower students with learning differences to achieve their full potential.
Although priorities may differ depending on your kid’s needs, here are some factors you may consider:
Approach
The approach of the principal and staff can set a positive picture. It can also build your confidence, especially when the staff keeps your child safe or meets their educational needs. School staff builds a positive approach by focusing on abilities and talking directly to your child. Also, they support individuals to learn at their own pace and create time to meet with parents and relevant professionals.
You must note that a school that welcomes your children and family is passionate or has a positive approach that is worth considering.
School Policies
Every school has its policies that ensure the well-being of students and staff and its running efficiently. The policies may include emergency procedures, management of medical conditions, attendance, bullying, and student engagement. You can request a copy of the policies.
Additionally, you look for things such as an enclosure of certain disabilities policies like student’s welfare. For instance, a clause of dyslexia in the language policy.
Food and Medical Care
Students with special needs thrive well in an environment where there are food and proper medical help. Thus, as a parent, you can ask if the school offer special dietary requirements. Also, if the school is mainstreaming, do students with special needs eat with the general population?
Furthermore, you can inquire whether the school has a full-time nurse? If not, how do they handle medication issues or sick students?
Guidance
Guidance and counseling are essential for every schooling institution. As a parent, you can inquire from a guidance counselor to find out how many students have paraprofessionals taking care of them. You can also ask how many students have an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP). Moreover, you can ask about the opportunities that special education children in a contained classroom setting meet when they mingle with the rest of the school’s population.…