There are many ways certain theater productions are becoming Asperger’s and autism – friendly. They welcome these patrons and address the sensory overload that usually would deter people with sensory problems from attending. Theaters keep the house lights on but just dimmed. The play’s noise is reduced. Actors are introduced to the audience out-of-character before the show begins. Audience members have stress balls to squeeze during the performance. People with Asperger’s or autism are free to get up and move around during the show. If the music feels too overwhelming, they can escape to a designated quiet room. Some shows offer a downloadable book telling them about the show before the day of the performance so they will know what to expect ahead of time.
Asperger’s & Autism-Friendly Theater Productions (Part 1)
Some theater productions are now welcoming Asperger’s and autistic patrons to the audience. Many children with Asperger’s and autism have certain issues that must be addressed when attending traditional Broadway Theater. Loud sounds and bright lights can be overwhelming for children with sensory issues. These kids tend to have their senses magnify the intensity and to them the sound seems louder and the light brighter. Some theaters both local and Broadway are making their show an experience all members of the community can enjoy.
Check back here to find out about some of the changes theaters are making to help people with Asperger’s and autism.
Child’s Ultimate Goal
The ultimate goal is to teach your child to expect much of themselves and little of others.
Great Pleasure In Life
A great pleasure in life is having your student do what others including the know-it-all “experts” say your student cannot do.
Abilities
Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.
Tourette’s Syndrome & Special Education Eligibility
Students with Tourette’s syndrome are not automatically entitled to special education services. Eligibility depends on several factors. Simply having Tourette’s is not the only qualification. For example the child’s educational performance must be affected as a result of the Tourette’s syndrome. If Tourette’s is directly causing your student low grades and difficulty in school, you the parent will need to advocate for them. If you do not speak up, then the school may not help your child.
Difference Between 504 Plan and IEP
The 504 is ideal for your child if he or she can make progress with some special accommodations. This would not be measured for gains and administered by the school’s general education department. However if your child needs a structured environment and specialized learning plan with measured gains, then the IEP is probably your best option. The school’s special education department would run this option.
For helpful advice and support for students on a 504 or IEP, contact Y3K Tutor In Your Home today! We have helped many families receive the educational support they need.
Individual Education Plans (IEP’s)
Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) are covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975. This act requires all 50 states to ensure a free appropriate public education to all qualifying students no matter what their disabilities are. It says that school systems must provide a proper individually tailored education, designed specifically for the individual. Each eligible student must be appropriately taught whether there is funding or not and by any means necessary.
The requirements of an IEP go a step further than 504 plans in that they require not only equal access, but also delivery of a proper education. The schools have to prove that eligible students have made academic progress. IEP’s include not only a plan of action but specific reports to show the amount of progress. The school’s special education department is in charge of IEP’s. If you feel that your child may require additional services beyond a 504 plan, then you may want to consider an IEP.
For helpful advice and support for students on IEP’s, contact Y3K Tutor In Your Home today! We have helped many families receive the educational support they need.
Title 1, 504’s and IEP’s
Title 1, 504’s and IEP’s are unique academic programs and mandated by separate government offices. If you have a child who requires special education, it is absolutely essential that you comprehend the difference between Title 1, 504’s and IEP’s. Understanding them is important so that you can be an effective advocate for your child. Check back here over the next several days for specifics about each program.
For helpful advice and support throughout the entire Title 1, 504 and IEP process, contact Y3K Tutor In Your Home today! We have helped many families receive the educational support they need.
Educational Rights
You have many rights when advocating for the best possible education for your child. Under federal and state law you have the right to:
Request and receive a free evaluation by the public school if you think your child has a problem affecting progress in school. Assessment can be done in all areas of concern including vision, hearing, social/emotional/behavior, language, and motor skills.
Have your child evaluated for the potential to benefit from assistive technology.
Obtain an independent evaluation by an approved provider should you not agree with the school’s findings.
Approve or decline all evaluations that are proposed for your child.
Request and receive copies of all evaluations two school days before the Team meeting to develop the IEP (Individualized Education Plan).
Attend and participate in all meetings where the IEP is developed.
Participate in transition planning for your child beginning the year he/she turns 14.
Bring a friend, professional, advocate, or attorney to all meetings.
Receive a clear explanation of evaluation summaries.
Meet whenever necessary with any school staff working with your child and reconvene the Team at any time.
Reject part or all of the IEP, including parts that are missing.
Review and inspect your child’s record.
Participate in the decision to remove your child’s IEP or 504 Plan.
Mediation to resolve differences with the school district regarding services for your child.
For helpful advice and support, contact Y3K Tutor In Your Home today! We have helped many families receive the educational support they need.