Many educators for various grades have dealt with different methods to see which one is the most effective to accommodate children with disabilities. Families play a crucial role in their children’s life, being one of their first supporters to give them a positive learning experience. Here’s what educators might want to know!

Educators and family engagements 

Parents being involved in their students’ education will give them a structure of support. Parents with disabled children especially, will find it harder than parents with non-disabled children. Incorporating different lifestyles can be helpful in a students life, especially for academically challenged children.

Some of the following strategies are: 

• Using families as advocates 
• Family roles in assessment and intervention 
• Families as partners in student learning 

Families and teachers as advocates 

A parent’s role is to know their child’s weaknesses and strengths and share them with the educators. Giving the teachers more information about your child will not only give them a better understanding, but help them to know the child as a person. Teachers should keep track of children’s records, academic process, artwork, and writing. Having open communication with the parents can give numerous opportunities to show visions and goals. 

Family roles in assessment and intervention 

As teachers, we have to know boundaries with parents because they are their kids’ first teachers in life. I believe to help any child learn, their family should be involved in assessment taking because they know their child’s pros and cons. This will allow teachers to understand what information can be taught accordingly on the students level. 

Families as partners in student learning 

Different engagements for parents: 

• Volunteering – organize a family help support group 
• Learning at home- brainstorm kind of activities they can incorporate around the house to be more involved 
• Collaborating with communities – learn if the schools can provide special services 

Families are the biggest influencers in a students’ life. The way they think about education is the result of the children’s attitude, social interactions, and how supportive the parents are at home. They must take full accountability to give their kids the best outcome, and continue to contribute at home or inside school. I’m glad schools are being more inclusive to help give a child an opportunity and learn in a less restricted environment. For future educators, ask yourself, what can you do to help a special needs child to thrive?

Victoria Suos is an Education Pre-K 4 major who will be graduating from Holy Family University in 2027. She was born and raised in North Philadelphia. Some hobbies she has learned are doing her own nails and having a small business making clay charms. She has a lot of pets, including two cats named Boogers and Tigress.