Most common questions used to investigate
Do you interact a lot with your child?
Can you understand cues?
Are you a flexible person?
Are you consistent with your behavior and actions?
Do you have a positive attitude?
Do you have a backup plan for every incident?
Common conclusions
One of the biggest mistakes that adults make is to avoid interacting with a special child simply because of the assumption that the child understands or comprehends what is being said. On the contrary, special children require more interaction to make them feel as "normal" as possible. Interact with them just like how you would talk to normal adults and children by introducing yourself. Talk slowly if the child has problems hearing or understanding you. Never shy away from talking to them as this is the worst thing you can do to them.
Well, special children may not be able to express all their feelings in words and gestures. Watch out for any cues that they may give to describe the discomfort or unhappiness over something or someone. Remember, that communication and not words are important, and with special children, you should put a bit more effort to understand their needs and feelings. Though it may be difficult to start with, you will get used to it over time.
Some adults don't prefer to change their behavior or actions to accommodate another human being. But with special children, you will have to do it. You may have to bring in another adult into your closed group, especially if your child feels comfortable towards the new person. Likewise, you may have to alter your schedule, habits, and so many things to accommodate a special child and at the end of the day, it will be so worth it. In fact, these special children can help you see a side of life that you never knew existed.
Consistency is a key aspect when you're molding a special child to adhere to certain schedules or behaviors. When you decide to impose a set of rules, be consistent in applying it every day and in every instance to ensure that they understand its implications and alter their behavior to adhere to it. Consistency is what will help special children to flourish well and that's another to apply the same behavior every time.
A positive attitude is the single most important trait you need to handle a special child because it will bring a cheer and a sense of accomplishment in you that will be immediately sensed and appreciated by the special child. Many times, they may understand that they are different from the rest of the children, so there is no point in making them feel miserable with a sulky behavior. So, have a positive attitude and emanate it, so it is absorbed and assimilated by the special children too.
Have a backup plan for every incident to ensure that it is not a disaster for any of you.
Great! Be open to executing it well.
References
Related Problems
