Blog 4

I had the opportunity to speak with a parent of a student that I will call Troy who was diagnosed with ADD at the age of five.  She explained that at first she and her husband had a hard time accepting the diagnosis of her son.  She also explained some of Troy’s behavior that led her to seeking outside help for her son. She and her husband were afraid that Troy would hurt himself through the excessive running, jumping, and the inability to sit still. Troy’s behavior led him to take medication daily to aid in helping him with controlling his behavior. I also asked if she noticed a difference in Troy’s behavior since being diagnosed. I also discussed with the parent whether or not she and the teacher worked out activities that will reinforce positive behaviors at home and at school. The parent stated that she was glad that her son was able to attend a regular setting classroom. Troy parent also loved the fact her son was not labeled and did not have to pull out of his regular classroom to receive his special services. The teacher worked with her and positive reinforcement behaviors were put into place at school and at home. She stated that together she and the teacher worked together with rewards, point system to encourage positive action from Troy’s.

 I think that a special learning experience that I received in the two weeks that I observed is how involved the parents were in their child’s classroom. The parents were always welcomed into her classroom. If there were any questions or concerns that the parents have the teacher were there to answer them. There were many children who have disabilities in her classroom and they are as involved in activities as the rest of the children. The children are working together and it seems that a community within her classroom. Also the teacher sends home weekly newsletter that contains information for the week and activities as well as recipes that children and their families can do at home. As my time is nearing the end I now know what type of teacher that I would like to be. I would also want to have a good relationship with my students and their parents as well as having a voice within the community.

 One insight that I gained from my observation is that all children learn and behave differently. I also learned through my observation that all children can learn. It is also important to inform parents of the progress of their children. also if you have observe something that is out of the norm for a child, the child exhibiting a certain behavior, having trouble seeing the board, or difficulties hearing direction. Another insight that I learned through my interaction with the teachers, parents and director is that there are services that are put into place for children with special needs. Early intervention is essential for children who have special needs. Teachers must work together with parents and special services providers to ensure that children will receive an enriched learning experience.