Students with Learning Difficulties or Disabilities

Students with special needs related to learning Difficulties or a Disability can experience an enormous range of challenges as they progress through their school life. In many instances mild learning difficulties and/or disabilities can be easily managed ensuring that the student achieves their maximum potential. In circumstances where a condition is more pronounced, profound changes may be required to that students educational program and delivery methods.

The following tips are offered as some basic concepts and principles regarding Special Education. In this area of education parents and the school should always seek advice from a QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL regarding what is the correct method of adjustment for your child.

1. Be aware of your rights and responsibilities when enrolling your child with special needs. The school, in the majority of cases, is bound the Anti-discrimination act to make provision for a student with special needs. You are responsible for disclosing all information relevant to your child’s condition and history.

2. Be realistic and communicate openly with the school about your expectations. Conversely, consider closely the schools opinion and work co-operatively in setting goals for your chills that are achievable (but not too easy).

3. Sometimes it takes a lot of communication to find a common ground on issues surrounding students with special needs. Keep healthy communications lines open all the time so you can pick up any issues early.

4. ‘Mainstreaming’ is a term that is used regularly in modern educational practice. It is important to note that simply placing a child with a disability in a conventional  setting is not going to achieve miraculous results. Within the mainstream school the students will need varying levels of individualised support.

5. Ask for an IEP (Individual Education Program). This is a process through which you the school and your child sit together set goals and discuss strategies on how to meet them. This group then meets on a regular basis to monitor the achievement of these goals.

6. Every student deserves the best possible education that helps them achieve their maximum potential. Make sure that you ‘shop around’ to find the school that will best suit your child’s needs.

7. For any information regarding any facet of your child’s development and well being, always seek advice from the appropriate professional.