TEACHING STUDENTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME
Children with Down's syndrome learn best from what they see and do. Educators
have found that using images
paired with words helps Down Syndrome children understand and remember words and phrases, as well as
role-playing games and drama. These involve physical activity and visual cues. Music has also been shown
to be another dimension in
learning; using songs, rhymes and rhythms the children have shown a greater ability
to retain information. Flash cards can be used
even before speech has developed. Signing is a conceptual bridge
to motivate communication and encourage productive speech. A conceptual
bridge is just a transition point
between where you are now (seeing and knowing) to where you want to go (speaking and reading). Develope
a
whole word visual sight vocabulary before breaking words down phonically. Another method is to simplifying a
concept down to the
most basic words. Repetition of daily routines instills a memory pattern for the children.
It is important to use as many channels
of input as possible, involve repetition with expansion and
reinforcement of previously learned skills.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
1-Make sure the work level is appropriate as children with Down Syndrome get frustrated more easily
if work is too hard. They can also get upset if work is too different from others in the class as they dislike being singled out.
2-Make sure the child knows and understands the rules; he/she should be treated no different from peers if deliberately disobeying.
– all staff should be aware of need for consistency.
3-Encourage good behavior with visual reinforcement and reward.
4-Don’t confront
bad behavior; try to distract or ignore child; try ‘time-out’
5-In post-primary school a home-school book is useful to ensure parents
and teachers are working together.
6-Use color coding, diagrams etc. to help pupil get to know timetable.
7-Encourage pupil to have
lists of equipment for different days. – classroom assistant might help with this.
8-Make the child aware when he/she has to listen,
e.g. point to your ears.
9-Allow lots of opportunities for practice when learning a new skill and try to use it in many different
settings.
Homeschooling Children With Down Syndrome Links
