INCLUSION AND YOU

introducing your unique child to public education

Winter Smith

YOU CAN NEVER START TO EARLYIt’s important prepare your child for the transition to school.

There are several ways to start the introduction to school.

Talk about school Have your child describe a school or read him stories

about schools and students Start taking trips to school before it begins

Get out explore campus, visit play areas, draw maps of route to school

Have a bedtime routine Mental changes are less challenging if the body has

already made the adjustment Be prepared to spend some time the first weeks

Socialization can be hard. Slowly phase yourself out of his day

KNOW YOUR ABC’S AND IEP’SThings to know:IEP- Individual Education Plan

Determines what your child’s education goals are. The plan that the teacher will follow in educating your child

ARD- Admission, Review and DismissalCommittee that will determine your child’s

participation in STAAR, TAKS, and TELPAS ( it’s okay you’ll get them)

WHY INCLUSION?Inclusion helps

children build relationships that keep them connected to school and learning.

DON’T GET DISCOURAGED Ditch the labels

Think student or friend. He’s a student too! Speak up

schools can’t help if you don’t ask Use available resources

state and local community groups Enjoy this experience

It may be hard but don’t focus too much on perceived failures. Celebrate small

victories!

handicapped

retarded challenged

SOURCES Texas Education Agency

http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index3.aspx?id=3314&menu_id=793

Faustino, Peter. Back to School for Children with Autism:

Tips for Reducing the Stress Associated with Back to School

P. Kluth (2010) “You’re Going To Love This Kid!”: Teaching Students with Autism in the Inclusion Classroom (Rev. Ed)