Editor's Note: A portion of this article has been removed, as the source mentioned previously was mistakenly interrupted. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Having an inclusive classroom is one of the most essential things in promoting the learning of children with multiple disabilities. However, it takes a lot of work. There are certain adjustments that need to be made to help these kids be seen and participate, as well as, trainings to help other students understand and accept their peers with disabilities.
What Is An Inclusive Classroom?
As defined by Reading Rockets, inclusivity means that children who are born with multiple disabilities can attend regular classes with their nondisabled classmates. Being inclusive means that a school is providing these kids with a support system and individual instructions to help them study at their own pace, without any discrimination to their special needs.
If you’re looking to build an inclusive classroom, here are a few changes you can make.
Help Disabled Children Become More Confident
Nurturing the self-esteem of a child with disabilities can be challenging. But, it’s never impossible. LDRFA shares that one way to do this is to celebrate the skills that the child constantly has great success at.
Help them unleash their best potential at what they’re good at! Is the child good at performing arts? Assign them more activities that involve creativity and design. Or, are they exceptionally talented in Math? Praise them for their achievements and test scores, and maybe let them tutor their peers who need help in the subject. Always celebrate their victories. This will help them feel more empowered and confident in school.
Create An Individual Educational Plan
Teachers who aim to create an inclusive classroom also need to create a unique learning plan for kids with special needs, to be able to accommodate their specific needs. Free Spirit Publishing shares that creating this educational plan entails noting the following:
- The child’s disabilities
- The child’s unique skills and talents
- Potential areas for improvement in school
- Any therapies taken by the child (e.g. speech, physical, occupational therapy)
- Any medications needed by the child
Modify The Classroom Settings
There are also some physical changes that an inclusive classroom needs to have. As an example, if a student uses a wheelchair, then the tables and chairs in the room need to have enough space between them. This would enable the student to move around.
Another thing to remember is to not just arrange the seat plan alphabetically or by height. If some students have poor eyesight, make sure that these children are seated near the blackboard. The school should also be able to provide handouts in bigger font sizes, too.
Be Flexible With The Class Schedules
Some students with special needs may face the need to regularly attend therapies outside the school. This may cause them to miss some class discussions, exams, and homework deadlines. So, to show support, it would really help if the teachers are flexible on the class activities.
If you are managing some students who attend regular therapy, always check up on them to avoid them feeling left out. Share the important dates and deadlines of the class activities, and coordinate with them how they can meet these requirements.
Use Inclusive Learning Materials
Another crucial tool in building inclusive classrooms is to pay close attention to the materials being used in class. Are the storybooks being used also depict children from different backgrounds? Do the school videos, books, and other visual aids also show kids with disabilities? If not, then you may have to modify these materials.
By using study materials that showcase diversity, students can get informed and aware of everyone’s differences. This would also train them to respect and appreciate each other’s backgrounds.
Invite Special Education Teachers
Last but not the least, it is always a great idea for schools to invite special education teachers to lecture or co-teach. These teachers can help schools craft a more inclusive learning plan for students while training other teachers how to be more empathetic, patient, and understanding. At the same time, special education teachers provide a more thorough examination on the special needs of some students, as they handle the class.
Sources: Reading Rockets Org, LDRFA Org, Free Spirit Publishing