Learning Strategies - Overview

Program Elements

Children with special needs benefit from a program that provides a safe, nurturing environment that provides opportunities for the child to learn from a variety of experiences. An example is an IEP evaluation.

Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA)/
Individual Education Program (IEP)

student and teacher On December 3, 2004, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act was enacted. This law revised the 1997 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and specifically connects the rules for special education to the regulations determined by the 2003 No Child Left Behind Act.

Children who are deemed eligible to receive special education services under their state and federal guidelines have an Individual Education Program (IEP) that directs their learning program in the classroom.

Caregivers interested in finding out more information about the IEP process need to consult with their child’s instructor, school counselor, lead special education teacher, or principal about the procedures in their school district. Though schools need to be in compliance with the federal IDEA law, some procedures vary according to state and district rules.

These websites may provide additional information about IDEA and Special Education Services:

Environment

Opportunities for small group instruction in challenging academic areas
Opportunities for adult assistance and support
Feeling safe in the classroom

Instructional methods

Developmentally appropriate instruction
Remedial interventions when needed
Adult facilitation to support challenging areas

Therapies / Educational Supports

Speech and language therapy
Occupational therapy
Physical therapy
Social skills training
Tutoring
Counseling
Instructional aides such as daily organizers and View2do
After school Activities
Assistive technology
Transitional plans
Sex education
Vocational guidance and/or training