Special education services are varied and can benefit a variety of children. Whether your child is showing signs of inattentiveness in school, has issues with speech or socialization, or has been diagnosed with a learning or developmental disorder, special education can prove to be beneficial in a variety of ways. Here are signs your child may benefit from these types of services. You can speak to a special education director at your child's school or preschool to learn more.
Your child is taking therapy outside of school
Does your child already go to an occupational therapist or a speech therapist outside of school? Are they going to counseling or undergoing other treatments outside the classroom? If so, they may benefit from getting special education. This doesn't mean they have to go to a special school or only get special education for their needs, it simply means they can get special education during their normal school day.
For example, your child may be pulled out of class for a few moments daily to be reviewed by a behavioral therapist. Or, your child may receive speech or other types of therapies within school hours.
Your child is behind their peers
If your child is performing behind their peers in tasks they should be good at, ask their teacher if there are any special education services they can take part in to help them succeed. For example, if your child is having a hard time reading, they can learn to do better in class by having a teacher aide help them with reading and spelling. If your child is entirely behind their peers and they have an accompanying diagnosis to support their educational needs, such as autism, sensory processing disorder, or a global developmental delay, your child can benefit from special education to help them catch up in their own unique way.
Your child is having issues with socializing
Is your child too social in school and having a hard time staying focused in class? Do they have an opposite issue and have difficulties in making friends or taking social cues? Special education can help your child learn more confidence and teach them how to work with their peers while getting an education at the same time.
Speak to your child's teacher to see if special education can benefit them in any way. The more you do for your child, the more they can excel in school and beyond. Ask about federally backed special education services in your area to give you even more options for your child's development.
