Truly Inclusive Classrooms - July 15th

All students can be included in the classroom. Students with special needs can be part of daily class work, meeting outcomes and needs in their own way. Matching the educational needs of a student with special needs with those of students working on regular curriculum requires creativity and dedication. Teachers may worry about meeting the needs of high needs students but worries are often put to rest when they realize that students can become involved in the work that is already going on in the class. Students may not always be working on the same outcomes as others when taking part in activities but they are learning. Being included is valuable and essential for all students.

An example of a typical classroom activity is "Buddy reading". While other students are practicing oral literacy skills with this very non-judgemental parter, this student who uses a wheelchair b/c of limited physical movement, may be practising his head turning exercises that help to increase mobility when he turns to follow along with his book buddies on either side of him. There are endless examples of adapted activities and alternative outcomes for common classroom activities.

Socializing with other classmates can be a great motivator for students with special needs. They often have to work much harder than others to complete tasks. They need motivation to continue working. Being included in activities with classmates can provide this motivation.

Including students with special needs benefits all students in the classroom. Creativity, patience, awareness and acceptance are some of the qualities naturally promoted when all types of learners are actively included.

With team work, creativity and dedication the challenge of integration can be met in any school, in any classroom.