1stMoon Reflections

No two children are alike. Each child comes with his/her own maturity level, (this has nothing to do with age.) perceptions and abilities. A wise teacher will recognize this and strive to meet the individual needs of each student in the class. Many children come to school with enough simularities that this is not a problem. But what if your child doesn't quite fit in with their classmates? What if your child has enough differences that the teacher cannot meet their needs?

Even in the best schools, filled with the best teachers this happens. Here are a few suggestions of some things you can do if your child is one of the special children not addressed in your school system.

1. Trust your instincts.
   • No one knows your child better than you do. Yes, the staff at the school may have more education, or more specific education - but they do not know your child as well as you do. Do yourself and your child a favor. Don't second guess yourself! Just because they are professionals, don't set aside your feelings. Yes, they are professionals. Overworked, underpaid professionals with 30 other students to worry about.
2. Gather information and documentation.
   Collect homework, school work, report cards and art work that illustrate your child's problem or strengths. Collect test scores, type of tests taken, conditions that best/worst suit your child.
3. Gather facts from experts.
   If you suspect your child may have a learning disability, learn everything you can. Bring documentaion to back up what you want for your child. If you believe your child is gifted, gather information about the special considerations and adaptations that need to be made for truly gifted students.
4. Make sure your child has had a recent physical.
   Discuss your concerns with your physician. Make sure an eye exam and hearing test are done if necessary.
5. Set a date for a conference with your child's teachers.
   Include the councellor and the principal too. Discuss your concerns and share your research and special insights into your child. Know that federal law has given parents the right to request that their child be tested. (PL 94-142) Just knowing that information is sometimes enough to push the school staff into action.

When you have exhausted all of your options with the school and are still not satisfied with the type of instruction your child is receiving you always have the option of choosing a private school, homeschool, or just supplementing the schools instruction with a tutor, or other suitable activity.

Only you can decide what is best for your child. It is your decision how to best educate your him/her and to help them reach their potential. Whatever choice you make, it should be a family decision, well thought out and planned. Remember, you have the power, you make the choices and you set the example your children will follow.