CHP 3:  Low-Incidence Disabilities

I have not had much experience with teaching a student with a low incidence disability, but before he transferred schools, we had a student in first grade with a disability that required him to use a wheelchair.  At Calhoun, we do not have a special education classroom.  Therefore, many of our students have not come into contact with other students with disabilities that are outwardly pronounced as in the case of this student.  It was a great teaching moment to discuss diversity and celebrate differences.  The students really bonded with the child and were devastated with the news of his transfer.

Although, I have not had a great deal of experience working with a student with a low-incidence disability, I do feel that my student with Dyspraxia could fit into this category.  The disorder greatly effects her speech.  I have noticed that it effects her social interaction at recess.  She tends to play by herself.  However, in the classroom she actively participates in whole group instruction and overall seems happy to be at school.  I feel that I have let her down by overlooking her lack of social interactions with her peers at recess. 

After reading this chapter, I feel that one of the best ways to help her socially is by reading aloud books that contain a character with social issues learning ways to increase socialization.  I also believe these types of books will help the other students in my classroom realize that some children have difficulties with social interactions, thus making them aware of their role in helping others with disabilities.