If you have an autistic child, then you are aware of the many challenges you face raising your child. With the behavioral problems that many autistic children suffer from, raising an autistic child may feel like two full-time jobs at times. Educating an autistic child is also a difficult task that must be fully thought out.
While public schools are funded to handle children with special needs, these locations are not always the best arenas for autistic children. One of the reasons that home-schooling your autistic child is a good idea is because special education programs may lump autistic children in with others who have maladaptive behavioral problems.
Remember, autistic children have behavioral problems due to their developmental inability to properly function normally in social situations. If they are placed in with others who have emotional problems they may regress instead of progress. However, if home-schooled, parents can control the social influences that are likely to either help or hinder the progress of their child. They can keep them away from insensitive teachers, bullies, and have greater control of their education.
Due to their obvious differences, many autistic children are treated with cruelty. This horrible fact of life can undo much of the progress that your child may have already made. Most autistic children function best when routines are set. Home-schooling is the best way to ensure these routines are established and followed.
In addition, home-schooling is a good choice because many autistic children are sensitive to sound. If they are in a classroom with a bunch of other children making noise, it can be difficult for them to focus.
The home-schooling setting is normally more quiet and conducive to learning, besides, it offers autistic children a typically 1:1 teacher to student ratio. Plus, if you’re following a GFCF diet it’s much easier to implement this at home and you can be sure that your child is only eating what you’re giving them.
Furthermore, research has demonstrated that autistic children who are home-schooled score better on problem behavior assessments.
In order to make the most out of your child’s home-school experience, it may be a good idea to keep a journal. Write down anything about your child’s behavior and performance that is important. For instance, you can keep track of when your child is most productive, when he or she learns best, and what are the potential distractions. Remember you’ll need to adapt your teaching style to suit their learning ability. Trying to make them learn ‘your way’ will just lead to a lack of progress and frustration all round.
As a parent and a teacher it is important for you to read up on recent literature involving the education of autistic children. There are many resources that provide information on teaching strategies, learning methods, and the different types of intelligence. Knowing this information will enable you to tailor a home-school program that will meet your child’s needs.
The beauty about home-schooling is that if one approach doesn’t work you can adapt your style until you find an approach that does work.
Home-schooling is fast becoming a common educational choice for parents of autistic children. The research involved clearly outlines the benefits of home-schooling. However, you must ensure that you will have the time and the dedication to follow through with home-schooling. Simply keeping your child at home is not going to do any good if learning is not occurring. It is important that you address academic, behavioral, and social needs.
By: Rachel Evans
Posts Tagged ‘Children With Special Needs’
3 Things That Father’s Can Do to Be Involved in Their Child’s Special Education
December 17th, 2009
Are you the father of a child with autism, and you would like to be more involved in your child’s education? Would you like a few simple things that you can do to benefit your child’s education? Fathers can bring a unique perspective to the special education process. This article will discuss 3 things that you can do to be more involved in your child’s special education program.
A study report that was released on July 14,2006 from the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill found that: Children with disabilities are more likely than other youngsters to live with single mothers or other female caretakers. Children with special needs can benefit greatly, if their fathers are involved with their life and education; so jump in for the benefit of your child!
Below are a few things that you can do:
1. Learn about the federal law that governs special education; The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). My book Disability Deception is filled with information on IDEA, or check out http://www.wrightslaw.com
2. Attend an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) meeting for your child. These meetings must be held at least once a school year. Fathers are often treated with more respect than mothers, so your attendance could greatly benefit your child. Bring a list of your concerns, as well as a list of services that you believe your child needs.
3. Check and see if your child’s school has any Special Olympics available, or any other sports or recreation for children receiving special education services. You could help your child learn skills, or offer to coach a team. Recreation can greatly benefit a child’s ability to learn, especially if they are hyperactive. Activity often helps child with a disability focus more.
4. Take a short time off work and go and observe your child’s classroom. Talk to his teacher if time permits.
5. Talk to other fathers, and perhaps start a group that will address your needs in the special education system. Talking to other fathers, will give you the chance to share ideas, and encourage each other in this journey.
As an advocate for over 15 years, I found that children with disabilities that had their fathers involved in their educations, were often more motivated to do well. As I stated earlier, fathers are often given more respect than mothers so this should be a motivation to be more involved. You are the only father that your child has; and they are depending on you.
By: JoAnn Collins
