Early Childhood Education: How Teachers Can Support Children With Special Needs
By Lenient Amidu
‘Olodo’ is a popular word in Nigeria used to describe a person who is seen by other people as unintelligent. For many Nigerian children, this word is first heard at school. Worse still, some children are teased with this word at school and home by teachers, classmates, friends, and parents.
It is not a pleasant experience for any child!
It is paramount to state that no child is an ‘Olodo’!
Children with special needs first have to be diagnosed early enough to avoid traumatic experiences and also to provide teachers with a guide that will help tailor the support the child truly needs. Their disabilities and impairments affect various aspects of their lives and school is a huge part of it. Early childhood educators have an important role to play as they are the first teachers a child may encounter.
There are various ways they can help create an inclusive environment and provide support for the child. Early childhood educators should learn about the children's needs. Understanding their disabilities and their strengths is key to making further choices on what kind of support they require. Teachers have to work hand in hand with their parents or caretakers to create unique and specialized plans for the child.
The classroom environment is the first place a child learns to trust themselves or otherwise. Teachers have the sole duty to ensure that the classroom is a safe space emotionally and physically. Conventional teaching methods may not be ideal so teachers would have to adapt and use assistive technology including text-to-speech software, and interactive programs if available. Teachers can provide accommodations when necessary. For example, extensions on due dates for assignment submissions, extra lessons, etc
It is evident that teachers would require extra hands to properly support the children so communication with parents and being prepared to adjust already set plans must be considered. Children with special needs can excel in school with the right support and assistance.
