Guest Post: From Student's Perspective

This is the first post that will come from a guest blogger.  I've met this young lady (Rose) through an Internet discussion forum that deals with various royal houses from around the world.  We've exchanged many messages via the site for almost a year, and have had some interesting conversations.  She was a student with special needs, and has been very helpful in making me understand what things may be like from the point of view of a child that is going through the system.  So, without further ado, here are some helpful hints form Rose:

My Best Tips For Special Educators, from the point of view of a past student with Cerebral Palsy, and Anxiety Disorder: Listen, not only with your ears, but with your heart. Make the child feel comfortable to come to you with anything. Take action against bullies. Don't turn the other way. Don't leave us alone, when people spit on us, throw rocks at us! Please help! Please don't say anything negative to us about our parents. That shreds our heart in 2. Don't rush to discipline. If a little girl with sensory disorder, has no words to tell you the room is too loud, and you have not figured out to give her picture cards to communicate this to you, please do not yell. That makes it worse. Likewise, don't write a principal referral for a panic attack. If the child needs assistance with eating and hygiene, please do not be negative about it. Strike the right balance between independence and safety. Independence is important, but never ask a child to do something that is physically impossible/medically unsafe for her to do. Keep an eye on your support staff. Please listen when a child says an adult is making her feel uncomfortable. Don't leave the child out of activities. Ex: If you are dissecting a frog, let the child read the directions, if she is unable to physically help. As long as she does her best, don't let her limitations affect her grades. Make sure she feels welcomed and valued- in the whole school. Be kind, give a smile- you do not realize how much this means! Talk to me, not about me:  Just because I come to class in a wheelchair, don't treat me as if I'm not there or act as if I'm mentally challenged.  Don't ask questions about me, ask me about myself!  If I need help answering you, I will ask.