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Inclusion Tip: Using a letter to introduce your child to a
new teacher
Inclusion Tip:
Using a
letter to introduce your child to a new teacher
You can make the inclusion process
go more smoothly by giving a letter to your child's teacher which
includes:
- An introduction/Information about your child with
"emphasis" on his strong points.
- Goals/Suggestions (Listed in Order of Priority) of what you want to
achieve in your child's inclusion - with suggestions on how to
adapt the material.
- Phone numbers and times that the teacher can reach
you.
This is a letter given to Maria's sixth
grade teachers - Note how we emphasis Maria's
strong points before we present those areas that will challenge
her teachers.
Prior to our meeting concerning our
daughter, Maria Kotlinski, we would like to communicate to you
our aspirations, goals and suggestions for Maria as she is
included in your class. As you probably know, Maria has Down
Syndrome and requires some special considerations. We appreciate
your interest in her development and offer you our experience and
assistance.
About Maria
Maria is, in
her own way, a bright, curious 12 year-old girl. She is a very
loving person. Reading is one of her favorite activities and she
will spend 20-40 minutes each day reading her school text books,
library books or dictionary. Over the summer Maria read two of
the books for Language Arts class, The Black Pearl and The Ice
Hermit. She is very interested in science and likes to watch
Beakman's World (a science television program). Maria also likes
to dance and shoot basketball hoops.
Our Goals/Suggestions (listed in order of
priority)
- Continued Development in Social Skills - This is
accomplished by Maria's inclusion in regular classroom settings
with guidance as to what is proper behavior. Social/interpersonal
areas that you think need attention should be communicated to us
so that we can remind Maria of the instructions given by you and
further explain them to her as necessary.
- Continued Development in Language Skills -
Maria's receptive and spoken language skills have improved
immensely since she has been included in regular classes. Asking
Maria simple questions or having her read questions that are on
the board are possible ways of helping her in this area.
- Following Simple Instructions - Where
other children can follow a set of instructions, Maria will
probably be able to follow just one or two at a time. Also, she
might need to have the instructions written down or the task
simplified. Some experimentation on your part can be done but
also feel free to ask us if we think a given task is within her
capabilities. We want to stretch Maria but not overwhelm or
frustrate her.
- Writing (Printing) Skills - Maria does
not do cursive writing. We have, however, seen a big improvement
in her printing of sentences in the last year. Class assignments
that require her to fill in the blanks or answer simple questions
should be attempted. If Maria does not finish the class
assignment, it can be given to her for homework. We will then
assist her in completing the assignment
.
- Organizing - Organizing her books,
assignments, desk, class schedule and backpack is another task
with which we will all be helping/encouraging Maria. Also,
navigating her way to her various classes is in itself a
wonderful learning experience for her.
Communicating With Us
We are available immediately after school outside of
Mrs. Dennis's room. You can also contact us during your
prep-time. Joe's work number is 123 1244. Susan's number at home
is 888 7777 but during the day it is usually easier to reach Joe.
If there is no answer at whichever number you call, please do
leave a message. You can also send a note home with Maria if you
like.
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