Special Needs

Question: special needs? i have just been asked a question in my coursework saying 'how to include a child with special needs. i work with kids but i have never had a child with special needs so please can someone give me an idea as to what to write????/ thank u so much

Answer: All children should be offered the same opportunties and experiences as each other & it is important to include children with specific educational needs within this also. Children with visual problems should have access to books with large print and audio aids such as story tapes. They can also be provided with magnifying glasses for looking at things. Deaf children should have lots of visual stimulation. Push and pull toys and wheeled toys can be adapted so that children can ride in them as well as control them themselves. Bricks can be adapted by fixing Velcro onto them to promote success and a sense of achievement. Large paint brushes – for children to develop their grasp and arm movements. Children can paint a wall (a large area with sheets of plastic on) and can be encouraged to make different marks – such as wavy lines, vertical strokes from top to bottom. Use large rollers instead of paint brushes. Safety scissors (left and right handed) can be used to cut dough – will help children’s grasp and arm movements. Large spades in the sand with adapted handles for easier grasping Jumbo chalks to draw on a wall area Practitioners may need to seek advice from other professionals with regards to specialist equipment that children with special needs may use: For example practitioners can seek advice from - SEN workers (Special educational needs) - Portage system workers - physiotherapists

Question: What qualifications do I need to work as a Special Needs Assistant in the UK? I am currently working in Ireland as a Special Needs Assistant, I have 7 years experience and a certificate in Special Needs. I am curious as to know what qualifications would I need to work as a Special Needs Assistant in the UK. Would my experience and course suffice or what would I need to enable me to work as a SNA there or anywhere else in the world? Would very much appreciate advice from anyone who has knowledge in regards to this topic.

Answer: why not contact men cap.org or autism web site

Question: How is Lehigh University with special needs/accommodations? I need extra time and sometimes extra time on handing in assignments. I have documented proof and testing. How is Lehigh with special needs/services and accommodations?

Answer: You should call someone at Lehigh I am sure that someone there will willingly answer your questions. Lehigh is a small university and as such, it is still easy to talk to a real person about real issues. Although I do not have the answer to your question myself, I can assure you that Lehigh treats its students - and prospective students - as real people and not just numbers, so I am sure they will be able to answer any questions you may have in this matter. Good luck. Lehigh is an excellent school.

Question: How do I become a special needs teacher? I think that I would like to be a special needs teacher. What qualifications would I need? Would I be able to get into the special needs sector with a PGCE or is there a different type of qualification that i would need?

Answer: PGCE is fine you can then apply for jobs in a Special School where you will have CPD in Special Education

Question: What do you take in college/university to become a special needs teacher? In general, I know you need a B.ED, but what do you take to specialize in education for special needs students? Do you specialize your masters towards that, or are there special programs you can take at some universities that offer courses in special needs education? If so, do you know which colleges and universities offer courses in this?

Answer: Some schools offer an undergrad major in special ed and/or and elementary ed degree with certification in special ed. It is also widely available as a Master's degree program. Look at the websites of schools that interest you and see how their program works. This may vary from state to state as to specific requirements. See the website below for one example.

Question: How does the 10,000 dollar special needs adoption tax credit work? In the next year or two I am planning on adopting a special needs child. How does the 10,000 dollar speciall needs adoption tax credit work? I've read I get a flat 10K regardless of expenses. Is this true? Is there anyone in the know here about special needs adoption. Please only reply if you really know and not on how you think it works.... thanks.

Answer: It's not just for special needs, it's any adoption. Here is a good link: http://adoptionblogs.typepad.com/adoptio… I just did it for my adoption. My understanding is that the credit is for money spent, so if you spend 5,000 you can get a 5, 000 deduction, not the full 10,000. I do know if you don't need the full tax credit one year that you can apply it over several years until you use it all. Also check out the IRS website...the tax credit recently increased. I did my own taxes on Turbo Tax delux and it walked me right through it. You can only get the tax credit the year the adoption is completed though. So, if you have some expenses this year and the adoption takes 2 years then you have to wait to claim the expenses. Actually, they make you wait until baby has a social security number or temp. tax ID number AND adoption is complete. Good Luck!

Question: What purpose do special needs people have on this earth? FIRST! Please do not take this question the wrong way. I couldn't really find a good way to word it. I really enjoy working with people who have special needs and believe that they were put on this earth for VERY important reasons. I am writing a paper and need some ideas to start with. In your opinion why were people with special needs put on this earth and what kind of an impact can they leave on the rest of us?

Answer: I have worked with special needs people since 1992. They show us the humanity of man. To be appreciate the simple things in life. Love Joy and Laughter. They all have something to teach us if we are willing to listen. We in turn learn something about our-self. Some of my most best experiences have been in that setting.

Question: how do i get a sponsor for a van for children with special needs? i am a multilink carer who looks after six children with special needs, only one at a time giving there parents a much needed break.I need a special adapted van or bus to be able to transport the children, on outings and trips. They are all in wheelchairs and are not able to be transported by car.I would be really greatfull if i could get someone to sponsor us as these vans or buses are too dear for us to buy but we are in urgent need of one.But do not have the funds needed to buy one.

Answer: Hi, Im not sure if I can help directly, unless you are in Hertfordshire. I belong to the Masonic movement, and last year we bought a new adapted mini-bus for such folks as yourself, and for local kids. No publicity, just here are the keys. If you let me know which county you reside, I could put you in touch with a local representative. We lads are not what many mistakenly think, and go a long way to providing such items, when possible. The whole thing is a nice charitable arrangement, world-wide. A van / minibus with electric lift on the back etc., should not be a huge issue. Hope that we can help in some way Bob, the stand-in Charity Steward.

Question: How hard is it to adopt a special needs child? I've been planning on adopting at least one child but lately i've been thinking about trying to adopt a special needs child.

Answer: It is fairly easy actually. If you go the foster care root, I know they pay more money on a weekly basis if you are caring for a special needs child. If you are ouright adopting, then there are more programs and institutions out there to support you if the child is special needs. I think that it's great you want to do this. Do you have any idea what type of special needs you would feel comfortable with dealing with, or does it not matter to you whatever the disablity might be?

Question: What certificates are needed to work with special needs students? i am looking 4 these certificates for a school project and for the project is to create our own business. And this is for a special needs students in a daycare setting

Answer: it depends on the state...each state has different licensing procedures for teachers, daycare workers etc...most states do not require day care workers to be specifically trained in special education theory and practice, which leads to a lot of problems...most states require anyone who works w/SPED students to have a special education certificate or a certain # of course hours...check the state ed web site for the specifics...

Question: What are some careers that are centered around children with special needs other than becoming a teacher? I ask only because I know for sure that I am going to work in this field, and would like a alternatives to the known "special needs teacher". I want to become one, but I just want to know of alternatives. My brother who is autistic, he has what my family calls a "advocate". I need jobs like that. Just anything really. I need variety within that field so that I can truly know where I want to go. Thank you.

Answer: special ed lawyer (since you are interested in becoming an advocate) also: physical therapist speech therapist behavioral therapist

Question: Can a child in special needs get kicked out of tutoring for behavior? My son was recently excused from tutoring saying he is a distraction to the other students while tutoring. I don't think they can do this. He is in special needs and I think they should take other measures to help him since he's failing the subject he's tutoring in. Anyone who knows anything about this please let me know.

Answer: You really need to refer to his IEP first. See what modifications are in there already... Does he have a 1:1 aide? Does he have a behavior plan that should already be implemented? IF, for example, the current teachers/instructors are not responding to his behavior as designated by his IEP, then you should make sure they are following that. SO, I would review his IEP and collaborate with the school/teachers as to what is going on. Secondly, they can do that if he is a disruption to others who are trying to learn. See it from the others' view (or the other parents). BUT, in saying that, it shouldn't be a long-term solution. He should be in an environment that suits both his and other students needs. So, ultimately, if it is appropriate for him to be tutored 1:1 without other students present, then implement that as best practice. If it benefits him to be with others, then collaborate with the team and agree (with help from a behavior specialist) about an appropriate intervention or behavior plan that addresses the situation. In general, be pro-active, know your son's IEP, and collaborate with your son's child study team (work together, not against).

Question: What qualifications are typically required to foster a special needs dog? We are considering fostering a special needs dog from a shelter or breed rescue in the San Antonio area. I have limited experience; I rescued a senior dog (found in a park and no owner located after a week of searching) and spent the last months of her life helping her after diagnosis of a heart condition. I am searching for tips and resources on the subject that Y!A users have experience with.

Answer: I would think the shelter will tell you when the time comes for a dog to be placed in a foster, but they will most likely consider what type of needs this special needs dog has. My first foster dog was an abuse case that was over the top. The dog had never been outside, so she was terrified of grass and dirt. Her paw pads had been worn down to next to nothing due to the previous owner only letting her on jagged concrete and dragging her around by a chain leash. She was squishy from bruises and terrified of being pat. It took me two weeks to finally get close enough to touch her, but any sudden movements would send her running and you always had to approach via a crouching or crawling position. She was also terrified of men. That's what I had the first time with no experience, and the dog (a year alter) is now a very happy, very cuddly dog who competes in frisbee. Each dog is different, so I'd recommend you only take a S.N dog if you have the patience to justify your attempts. Even the slightest hint of frustration can bruin any progress you've made. Of course, all dogs are individuals, so find out what the shelter wants of you and what they expect you to be doing with the dog before you take on that kind of a challenge.

Question: How much does a special needs teacher make a year? I choose my career as a special needs teacher and were supposed to see how much our job would make a year, I have no clue. Help me?

Answer: "Median annual earnings in May 2006 of wage-and-salary special education teachers who worked primarily in preschools, kindergartens, and elementary schools were $46,360. The middle 50 percent earned between $37,500 and $59,320. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,320, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $73,620." From: (U.S.) Occupational Outlook Handbook

Question: What classes are needed to working with children with special needs? Im taking child development classes right now, at a community college. But I' am not sure how to get up there to work with children with special needs? because the classes I' am taking deal like with children from newborns to middle school.

Answer: I am in a Educational Assistant program at a local college which once completed i will be able to work with children who have special needs.

Question: Any teachers out there, have children with special needs in their classroom? This question is for elementary teachers by the way: Arrange to do an observation of a classroom that has children who have special needs. What do you notice about the manner in which the teacher interacts with the children who have special needs compared with those without special needs? What needs do the children seem to have that are unique to this group? Common to other children? What modifications in instructional approach are evident?

Answer: I am confused by your questions. It seems like you need to be doing the observation yourself? Different classrooms with different teachers will give you different results. If this is something you need to do for a class, just go out and do it.

Question: What is the best way to raise money for a early childhood special needs playground for a non profit school? My son attends a non profit preschool for children with special needs. They are in desperate need of a new playground facility that all the students can enjoy. Funds are limited, so money needs to be raised. How do I go about raising the $50,000 needed?

Answer: look into grant writing. Search on-line for grants that help build playground equip for the children your sons school serve. I wish you luck!!!

Question: What do you say to the parent who does not want a special needs student in their child's classroom? She does not think the student with special needs should be in the regular classroom because "it takes too much of the teacher's time". She thinks her child is falling behind because the teacher spends more time with the student with special needs. The student has a full time educational assistant working with him. He is a great kid and parents do not yet have a diagnosis for him. She is new to the board of our PTO and we do not want anyone thinking that the PTO thinks this way! It sickens the rest of us on the board that she thinks this way. As president of the PTO I want to talk with her but need ideas on what to say. Here, the law is inclusion so if parents want it, students with special needs are in the regular classroom. Thank you for your help and words of wisdom. To Clarify --- this parent does not have a say in this. The student with special needs will stay in the classroom. And her child with regular needs will stay in the classroom too. I want ideas on what to say to her to enlighten her on inclusion and special needs. I could just tell her to stop talking but I would rather educate her. Scary thing is she is in education studying to be a teacher :( The student with special needs is not affecting the other parent's child --- she is using him as a scapegoat in my opinion and as PTO President, I don't want her talking like that! thank you for your great input.

Answer: I think the first thing to do is ask her how she feels this child being in the same class with her child is doing to make it harder for her child? To understand what her worries are is the most empathetic approach you can use. It could be just that she is jealous that this child gets extra attention that her child is not getting! If she keeps going with how it takes up too much time for the teacher to have to accomidate this student -- ask for examples. I am wondering if the regular ed teacher has made some comments about her workload! It might be worth it to have a chat with the regular ed teacher and make sure that she is getting the support that she needs. If she is working with a child that doesn't have a firm diagnosis yet, she may not have the support she needs from a case manager. Having a full time aide for this student can be helpful -- if that aide ia aware of what needs to be done and knows how to work with this child. She may have a valid concern about her child -- in fact her child may have a disability as well -- one that she is in denial about facing. Or should could have abrilliant child that is not being challenged -- whether or not this child in in her class. It happens! Absent all of that -- point out how working with many learning styles -- whether they are disbailited or not -- enrich the learnign for all students. Increasing instruction in visual and tactile formats helps stregthen the learning for all students -- it sure beats listening to only lectures! You can bring up tolerance and learning to work with others. This child will be a peer to her child for the rest of their lives -- or as long as they are in the same community. Even if they move -- there will be other folks that have disabilities or spceial needs everywhere they go. You can emphasize that her support can help her child not develop the prejudices that were previlent when she was gowing up. You may want to educate her on famous americans that had disabiliites and grew up to be contributors to society. Edison (deaf), Juliette Lowe (founder of the Girl Scouts, deaf), Einstein (LD), etc. Inside I would just want to say -- who are you to say that this person doesn't have the right to become the person that they are capable of being -- maybe a person that will solve world hunger! But of course stiffling that would make me the better person and be less likely to turn her off! hahaha. And of course there are the laws. You can get her in touch with all kinds of reading material out there about the rights of the child to have a free and appropriate education -- one that does nto discriminate on them due to their disability. I would bring this up last -- because what she is really worried about is her own child and what is best for him/her. You can't legislate attitudes, you can just make it illegal to enact on them.

Question: Did people neglect others with special needs back in the old days? I think my brother told me one time that back then if someon had a child with special needs they would kill them or chain them up in the streets. Is that true?

Answer: Yes, not only did the disabled get neglected but they would also have forced lobotomies (frontal lobe of the brain removed leaving many disabled completely unable to perform routine tasks such as speaking) performed on them to "tame the devil" living with inside them and have forced sterilization performed on them to prevent these people from having children. These operations were often done in a filthy environment, resulting in the death of many disabled people. Neglect of newborn disabled babies. Newborn babies, particularly those with conditions such as Down's syndrome and Spinal Bifida, are sometimes sedated and starved to death. Even today, many people call this "allowing them to die" but it would undoubtedly be called murder if it were practiced on an "normal" baby.

Question: What should I do to prepare to work with special needs kids? I am 12, and tomorrow I'm going to work with special needs kids at the soccer field,using the buddy system. What should I do to prepare?

Answer: Try not to baby them. Encourage them to do what they can do. The things they are not quite sure or understand about, try to explain to them in steps. Don't explain things in too fast. Sports is a way to show sportsmanship and help people with coordination. Be calm and have a good time!