Here’s How Schools Can Better Support Special Needs Students

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 ten children have a developmental disability, according to the CDC's National
Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).

As diagnoses increase and the demand for qualified professionals who support these students
reaches an all-time high, schools today face a nationwide shortage of specialists. This
leaves countless students lacking the care they need to thrive academically and socially.

Common misconceptions and a lack of awareness about autism and other learning disabilities can significantly hinder children in the classroom. This can create unwanted barriers to their learning, success, and well-being.

As World Autism Awareness Day approaches on April 2, many school districts, educators, and communities need the awareness to support students of all abilities in the classroom.

Here are five best practices for educators on supporting students of varying 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.
   
   Embracing diverse abilities in the classroom and employing trained professionals to
   help foster a culture of empathy, respect, and acceptance, creates a more equitable and
   inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive.