Monday, 26th February 2007- Saturday, 3rd March 2007
Theme: Educating Students for Success in a Changing World

By: Mrs. Carol Webster
Special Educational Needs Teacher at the Stoney Ground Primary School

I would like to take this opportunity to tell you about children with severe learning disabilities. They are really no different from anyone else. It’s just that their approach to learning is different. Special Needs children are unique and are capable of doing the same things that you do, just at a slower pace.

HOW CAN YOU HELP AS PARTNERS IN EDUCATION?

Teachers, parents and friends with Special Needs children

• Model good behaviour. Let children with learning disabilities observe how enthusiastic you approach a project, especially if the project appears difficult.
• Offer good suggestions to develop a strategy for completing the project.
• Help them get organized with any materials needed.
• Be sympathetic to their challenges, encourage them to continue, assure them they are capable of managing the situation.
• Offer praise for their efforts and accomplishments.
• Invite them to take part in your activities, even if you fear the activity may be too difficult for them. They will be able to do what they can at their own pace. They may actually surprise you.

If you help in this way, you will help them to learn more about themselves and gain a positive approach to learning while experiencing success. In providing an environment where children may learn about themselves, we must remember to demonstrate it, will feel safe and develop the confidence required to lead productive lives. REMEMBER IF WE ALL REACH OUT AND HELP ONE ANOTHER, THIS COMMUNITY AND SCHOOL WILL BE A BETTER PLACE.

Activities organized within our Anguillian schools this week include Special Assemblies, Open day, field trips and SEN Teachers’ Appreciation Dinner.

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