As schools work to be more inclusive and move away from isolated special education, teachers are working to increase access within their classrooms by creating academic accommodations and ensuring the structures and systems of their classes provide different ways for students to engage. Creating personalized academic accommodations and support systems that give students the tools they need to meaningfully participate in classrooms is one of the most important things teachers can do to contribute to inclusion efforts in their schools. See below for some strategies teachers can use to support students with disabilities.  

1. Use visual aids

Visuals are an important aspect of teaching young children, especially those with disabilities. Visual aids, such as picture-daily-schedules, stickers and cards can be included in daily classroom activities and routines. When additional structure is needed for activities that require multitasking, using visuals to provide information for each task can help children succeed. 

2. Give directions clearly and concisely 

Children with disabilities often have difficulty understanding instructions or feel overwhelmed if asked to do too many things at once, which can make it harder for them to participate. When giving directions, using direct language and giving no more than 2 steps at a time can help students to successfully execute the task. Non-verbal cues, such as gestures or facial expressions, may not make sense to some children with disabilities. Teachers are encouraged to practice being as direct and clear as possible. 

3. Help students manage their time and transitions between activities 

In between classes, activities and events, 2-minute or 5-minute transition warnings can support students in making the most of their time. A timer students can clearly see shows how long each activity or event will take, helping to make both the schedule of the activity and expectations clearer for students. This also helps students to build time management skills and experience consistency and predictability in classroom routines. 

4. Support students in managing their sensory stimulation 

Some children with disabilities are overwhelmed easily by loud or bright stimuli and may respond by covering their eyes or ears. Sensory activities typically involve over- or under- sensitivities to sounds, light, touch, tastes, smells, pain and other stimuli. Having access to sensory tools, such as noise cancelling headphones can help them to regulate and return to class. 

5. Celebrate students for meeting and exceeding expectations 

Lastly, use positive reinforcement for good behavior. It is important to reward good behavior, rather than focusing on negative actions. When the child receives attention and other benefits from good behavior, this behavior is much more likely to happen and become habitual. Some examples of positive reinforcement include clapping and cheering, giving a high five, a hug or a thumbs up, and offering a special reward or extra privileges.  

– By Esi Coro, Graduate Assistant at the Center for Social Development and Education