Key points:
The number of children diagnosed with developmental disabilities is on the rise, specifically attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Today, nearly one in 10 children have a developmental disability, according to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
With diagnoses increasing and the demand for qualified professionals who support these students at an all-time high, schools today are facing a nationwide shortage of specialists, leaving countless students lacking the care they need to thrive academically and socially.
For World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, ProCare Therapy, a staffing agency for school-based therapy roles and teachers, is sharing best practices for educators on supporting students of varying abilities in the classroom while support staff is limited.
Five ways to support students of all abilities in the classroom
1. Implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Each student has a unique way of processing information, and research shows that multi-sensory learning helps improve memory retention and overall understanding of the subject matter.
The UDL framework, which offers visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic learning methods, helps remove potential hurdles in the learning process and caters to the diverse needs of all students, including those with neurodevelopmental and learning disorders.
2. Consider individualized support
Teachers can work closely with students to develop personalized learning plans and strategies that address their unique needs. This may include offering additional time for assignments, providing visual aids, or using assistive technology.
3. Foster social-emotional learning
By ensuring students frequently engage in group activities and cooperative learning, educators can encourage positive peer interactions and provide opportunities for students to build friendships and develop their social skills.
4. Utilize multi-sensory classroom design
To accommodate different learning preferences and sensory needs, classrooms can incorporate designated quiet spaces, natural or soft lighting, calming colors, and sensory objects. In addition, using visual aids, such as daily schedules and timers, can be particularly helpful for students with autism or ADHD who might struggle with timekeeping and prolonged focus.
5. Include inclusive books in classroom libraries and reading lists
By actively pursuing and incorporating inclusive books, such as books with characters with disabilities, teachers expose students to varied perspectives, experiences, and challenges that may differ from their own. This helps to break down stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where students who identify with these characters feel seen.
“Common misconceptions and a lack of awareness about autism and other learning disabilities can significantly hinder children in the classroom. In turn, this can create unwanted barriers to their learning, success, and overall well-being. This is why it is vital to employ professionals who are trained to help create the environments these children need,” said Hunter Wesolowski, ProCare Therapy’s director of Educational Resources.
“Embracing diverse abilities in the classroom fosters a culture of empathy, respect, and acceptance. It creates a more equitable and inclusive learning environment for all students.”
This press release originally appeared online.
