Part of the reason for having a separate special needs classroom is that it allows teachers to provide more targeted support that works with the differing needs and learning styles of students. Special needs elementary schools and secondary schools have more flexibility in their structure, and this gives them more opportunities to be innovative in their provision.
Multisensory approach
Sometimes, the differing sensory perceptions of children with autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities and other learning difficulties can cause them to become overstimulated or distressed in the classroom environment. There can be an effective alternative way to engage students, such as with “TouchMath”. This approach allows students to use their eyes, ears and hands all together to better grasp mathematical concepts, giving them a more tangible connection to the work.
Creativity and the arts
Within the broad spectrum of the arts, which encompasses activities such as drawing, painting, working with textiles, sculpting, engaging in music, dance, and drama, there exists a vast array of opportunities to foster and enhance creativity, facilitate communication, and promote collaboration among students with special needs. This multifaceted approach provides a rich, varied platform for these students to express themselves, interact with others, and develop essential skills in a supportive and stimulating environment.
Games and role play
For children, especially younger children who are attending special needs elementary schools, play is an important part of learning. Turning potentially stressful exercises, such as practicing social interactions, into games can make them more enjoyable for students and therefore more effective. This transformation often involves the development of role-playing scenarios. As a resource for guiding such social education, “Social Thinking” by Michelle Garcia Winner stands out as a significant source of inspiration.
Modern technology in the special needs classroom
Every year, there are new pieces of innovative technology that could make the classroom experience easier for students and teachers. It can be hard to keep track of all of them, but these devices and software are generally an alternative form of communication for those who struggle with speech and language, an organizational tool for those who find time management difficult, and a source of everything from educational materials to games to engage and empower students.
Earning prizes
Many schools have some kind of points system to allow students to earn prizes, but if these become too focused on academic achievement, it can leave the children who require more time to grasp information and learn feeling like failures, damaging their self-confidence. There should be a broad range of behaviors that can earn points, ensuring that children can be rewarded for effort, kindness, and other important skills and attitudes.
Outdoor learning
Some children are not comfortable indoors but will be much more engaged when outside in the fresh air. It is less crowded or claustrophobic, and there are new opportunities for sensory engagement. There is a lot of evidence that engaging with nature is good for mental health and can improve performance. The classroom does not have to be a rigid structure with four walls where all lessons and activities are contained, whether that means stepping into the yard or playground, or arranging a trip into the outside world. These are just some of the ways that you can take special needs lessons beyond the traditional classroom format and give students new ways to communicate, engage and enjoy. By working with their strengths and building their confidence, you can help them feel empowered to go out into the world.