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School & Education

Educating Children with Birth Injuries

The first day of school is a milestone in every child's life- and a proud moment for every parent. For most parents, where and how to educate their child is an easy decision. But for parents of children with a birth injury, deciding upon specific education choices is one of the most difficult decisions they may ever face.

Challenges of Educating a Special Needs Child

There are more options than ever before when it comes to educating a special needs child. However, many of the challenges remain the same. The education of children with birth injuries requires more thought and more monitoring, which often means more anxiety. You may have to deal with under-funded and understaffed schools that don't seem capable of providing the support your child needs. Even more shocking is the fact that your child may not be welcomed with open arms.

Education Options for Special Needs Children

In deciding your child's educational path, you may be struggling with a number of concerns, from transportation options to ensuring that your child is in an emotionally and physically healthy environment. But there are many ways to make sure your child's schooling experience is a happy one- for both of you.

There are three main schooling options available for special needs children:

1. Public Schools - Your child deserves a free education like every child in the U.S. However, depending on the type and severity of your child's disability, arrangements may have to be made so that the school district can give your son or daughter the necessary tools for success. Learn more about the public school option.
   
2. Private or Residential Schools: Schools designed for disabled students with similar needs may be day schools or residential facilities. The benefit of a choice like this is that private schools also already have the support in place to maximize your child's potential. Students tend to accomplish more in such a system because there's a higher teacher-to-student ratio and as such, your child will likely not only receive a formal education, but also vocational and life skills training as they grow older. The downside of private or residential schools like this is that they are often privately funded and can be very expensive. 
3. Home Schooling - For economic or emotional reasons, some parents choose to home school their special needs child. You may decide to hire a tutor to work with your child, or you may prefer to educate him yourself. The benefit to home schooling is that you can monitor your child's progress closely and ensure that they are in a safe, familiar environment. The drawback is that they may not be exposed to new and different experiences or have the opportunity to make new friends. The other downside for some parents is the stress that goes along with home schooling. Learn more about the home school process and find resources needed.
   

To help you determine which educational option is best for your child and your family, there are a few important questions to ask:

• Where will my child get the best education and preparation for the rest of his life?
• Can I get the support I need if my child is educated at home? Are there respite services in place where I live so that I can get a break from care giving once in a while?
• Will my child's emotional needs be met if he/she is educated at home? In a public school? In a residential school?
• Can my child and I handle the physical and emotional separation that a residential school often requires?
• Will my child be connected to the community if he is educated at home? In a residential school?
• Will my child have access to recreational options at their school or in the community?

Lastly, remember that nothing is set in stone. If your child isn't flourishing in a mainstream classroom or isn't adjusting to a residential schooling program, you can always make a change. When it comes to your child's education, it's worthwhile to keep trying until you find a solution that fits.