To better understand how to approach my idea next, I wanted to look closer into what challenges children with cognitive disabilities face and which methods could be used to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.
When asked which struggles they encountered while in school, people with autism and ADHD gave some of the most common challenges:
- Difficulty with Social Interaction – Struggling to understand social cues and engage in typical social interactions, as well as working in groups and speaking in front of people
- Difficulty Processing Information – Finding it hard to focus on tasks, getting easily distracted and needing time to process new information
- Communication Difficulties – Being misunderstood, seen as rude when using blunt language which often leads to feeling overwhelmed and anxious
- Sensory Challenges – Sensory overwhelm from loud noises, lights and bigger crowds
- Rules, Routines, and Expectations – Often not understanding instructions or expectations, as well as having trouble understanding inconsistent rules and changing routines
There are many ways in which these issues can be addresses. After doing some research I found a couple of suggestions that could help children with cognitive disabilities, while also keeping the learning environment motivating for all other children:
- Using Concrete Language and Visual Aids –Clear, concise instructions and visual aids can help autistic children understand what is expected of them. Demonstrations and visual schedules can provide the structure they need to succeed
- Step-by-step instruction –Breaking down lessons into sequential steps allows students to grasp each component before moving on to the next. This approach reduces confusion and builds a solid foundation of understanding.
- Repeated practice and reinforcement – Providing opportunities for students to practice and reinforce their skills ensures mastery and retention of concepts.
- Sensory Accommodation – Identify sensory triggers and find ways to reduce them. This might include providing noise-canceling headphones, creating a quiet corner in the classroom, or using dim lighting to create a calmer environment.
- Consistent, Calm Communication – Use a steady, calm tone of voice when addressing children, especially when giving feedback. They can be sensitive to changes in tone, which can affect their understanding and response.
References:
https://www.autismconnect.com/blogs/challenges-faced-by-kids-with-autism-in-classrooms
