Educating a Child w/ a Disability

You walk into the local discount store and find the school supply lists. If your child has a disability, you need more than crayons and notebooks.

You have the things on the supply list. As a parent of a child with a disability you understand that returning to school is a little more complicated than that.

Emotional Preparation

• Take your child to meet his teacher.
• If possible, look around the building and see the classroom.
• Take a minute to meet or greet the principal, secretary, and nurse.
• Ease into the "school routine" at home.
• Talk about school starting. Include what the routine will be. Talk about the fun of seeing friends again. Discuss expectations.
• Verify details with the bus company. Discuss who the driver and assistants will be with your child.

Physical Preparation

Gather the following (as your child needs) for school use.

• Medication - If your child will take medication at school, now is the time to obtain an extra for school.
• Equipment
• Emergency Contact Information - This is critical for a child with a disability. Make sure that the numbers are for family or friends who will be available if the school needs someone.
• Medical Contact Information
• Change of Clothing
• Misc. Supplies - Batteries, diapers, wipes, feeding tubes, etc. fall into this area.
• Communication Notebook - Families sometimes opt for communication online which can be an efficient way of communicating even during the school day. For others, a good old-fashioned spiral notebook is passed between school and home.
• Study Tools - Index cards, flashcards, highlighters, sticky notes, rulers, a dictionary for the correct age, a thesaurus, pens, pencils, and paper come in handy at home.

Paperwork

• Review your child's IEP.
• Become familiar with the handbook for all students.
• Establish a place to keep school handouts / letters to parents.

Being prepared for school is as important for the child with the disability and his parents as for school personnel. Think positively. Establish rapport with the school and routine at home early in the game. You will have set the foundation for a great year!

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