Are you worried about your child’s academic progress or learning during the pandemic?
Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, there have been unprecedented changes in educational practices across the country. School districts in New England are currently planning to offer a range of instructional of instructional models this school year, including full remote programming, hybrid learning models, with a combination of in-person and remote instruction, and in some cases, a return to in-person class schedule with PPE precautions in place.
This poses a great challenge to educators and parents in trying to support students’ ability to learn, promote their social development, and ensure their well-being.
Students with learning, emotional, and developmental disabilities who receive specialized services through an Individualized Educational Program or 504 are particularly vulnerable to disruptions in their functioning and academic progress. With less time in the classroom receiving instruction and specialized intervention, they are risk for both skill regression and difficulties acquiring new abilities like their classmates.
Students can exhibit a wide range of cognitive and learning challenges that can interfere with their ability to engage in remote instruction such as:
- Poor attention and concentration
- Weak fine motor planning and coordination
- Slowed processing speed
- Reduced working memory
- Difficulties with emotional or behavioral regulation
- Learning Disabilities
All students cannot access remote learning in an equal manner. Some students will require more direct in-person services and instruction than others or other accommodations and supports related to their cognitive and learning profile. Dr. Miles-Mason is currently offering remote learning consultations as well as assessments to help determine your child's ability to effectively access remote instruction and what he/she needs to learn. For other students, consultation may focus on how remote instruction and services impact his/her social development, emotional functioning, or a wide range of skill areas.
It is important to understand that remote or hybrid learning is not a "one size fits all" model that looks the same for every student. Children with special needs require individualized plans that carefully considered their unique set of challenges. Dr. Miles-Mason can help you determine what supports are appropriate for your child and how to advocate for their implementation.
Many parents have begun to see challenges while working with their children at home during the pandemic that they were not aware of before. Even if your child does not receive services in school, consultation to discuss the difficulties you are seeing and potential next steps to address them may be helpful