Special Needs Children in the Classroom

The classroom is the place where education takes place.  There is typically a teacher and at least one child--usually more.  The teacher prepares a lesson that will hopefully inspire the child to learn the lesson.  When most people think of a classroom with a teacher, they think "reading," "writing," and "arithmetic."  Well, it's time to think outside the box.  A child with special needs will need much more than the "basics" that other kids may need.  They need to feel loved, secure, valued, and encouraged.  They need daily life skills.  They need social development.  They need a teacher with both a heart for them and the skills needed to help them learn their "lessons."  A good teacher of children with special needs will utilize colors, shapes, an encouraging tone and demeanor.  All kinds of visuals will be utilized.  They like barriers in the room so their paths are clearly marked.  Above all, they need to know that their teacher cares deeply for them.  Like all children, even those with special needs, can discern if their teacher see the great value inherent in them.