Sidebar - Students With Special Needs

I had several students with severe limitations. I did my best to include them in all class activities - but the girl had limited motor skills, and so worked part of the time in a coloring book, or coloring in Keith Haring pictures. The boy seemed overwhelmed by blank paper, so he also spent some time coloring rather than drawing. Both seemed happy to be in art class, and the other students became more comfortable and eventually were willing to assist one of these special needs students when needed.

When we worked outside, the girl, who has leg braces, was happy drawing on the wall in chalk. And when she looked tired, I'd give her the extra papers and ask her to sit on them so they wouldn't blow around. After 30 minutes of standing, she needed to sit, and having a job to do helped her be willing to sit and stay put.

I guess what I'm saying is if you have students with special needs, figure out ways to include them within their capabilities.

My hearing impaired students during the second half of the school year came to me with a sign language interpreter, which made things easier. However, I discovered that interpreters use an abbreviated shorthand of sign language, and at times my full meaning didn't get across to the students. It made life interesting. I also learned some signs. Especially when the boy in the group called me a "B" in sign language. Interesting.