As a parent, the initial announcement that schools would close and classes would shift to remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic sparked a flicker of excitement in me. With a flexible work-from-home schedule and a background in homeschooling and college instruction, I thought managing my four children’s education while continuing my job would be manageable. However, I quickly realized how mistaken I was.
Instead of a picturesque experience reminiscent of a scene from a musical, our days felt more like a battlefield. Not against COVID-19, but against the daily struggles of adapting to this new reality. Two of my children have specific learning needs that necessitate individualized education plans (IEPs). This was not going to be an ordinary at-home learning experience. How could I possibly cater to the diverse learning styles of my children, especially those with disabilities?
Distance learning can be a daunting task for any parent, but it becomes exponentially harder for families with children who require additional support, such as speech therapy, reading assistance, specialized math instruction, and occupational therapy. These students are entitled to accommodations that ensure they receive a free and appropriate public education—one that aligns with their typically developing peers. This raises an essential question: how will these students continue to receive the necessary support during this time?
It’s crucial to note that I’m not alone in this struggle. During the 2017-2018 school year, around 7 million students—roughly 14% of all public school students—received special education services. A significant portion of these children had specific learning disabilities, with others categorized under speech or language impairments, autism, and developmental delays. The sheer number highlights a critical issue: many American families are navigating distance learning without adequate support systems in place.
Parents of children with special needs are understandably anxious. Many lack the skills or resources to provide the academic assistance their kids require during this unprecedented time. Their children’s routines have been uprooted, leaving families desperately seeking solutions.
To shed light on this situation, I spoke with Emily Carter, a resource specialist at the Family Support Center in New York. Emily is also a mother of a child with special needs who has faced similar challenges. She expressed that parents are deeply concerned about their children falling behind academically and about how the extended absence from school will affect their reintegration when classes resume. The overwhelming feeling of inadequacy to meet their child’s needs at home is a common sentiment.
How Will Students with Special Needs Be Affected?
So how will students with special needs be affected? Emily stated that every student, regardless of their learning needs, will experience changes in their education. While the extent of the impact on students with IEPs is unpredictable, it’s clear that these changes are already being felt, as I’ve seen with my own kids during these weeks of remote learning. I am not equipped to conduct speech therapy or provide specialized instruction in math or occupational therapy.
Emily emphasized the importance of parents reaching out to teachers for assistance. They can provide valuable resources and suggestions tailored to each child’s learning plan. Additionally, parents should connect with therapists, such as speech professionals and social workers, for advice on how to incorporate effective strategies at home. It’s vital that parents recognize they don’t have to tackle this daunting task alone. Teaching life skills—like time management and teamwork—can also be beneficial during this period.
Moreover, Emily reminded us of a fundamental truth: comparing our situations to others—especially on social media—only adds to the stress. Every child with special needs has their own unique journey, and the educational paths are customized for them. Instead of seeking validation from others, parents should acknowledge their efforts and focus on doing their best for their children.
Through my experience, I’ve learned that prioritizing my family’s mental and physical well-being is essential for effective learning. Choosing to spend quality time reading together instead of forcing completion of a worksheet has dramatically improved our family dynamic. Connection takes precedence over academics, especially in these trying times.
I’ve also discovered that maintaining my emotional stability—by limiting exposure to distressing news—is critical in supporting my children, particularly those with unique learning needs. Following Emily’s advice, I strive to embrace my role with confidence and recognize that my children’s well-being is what truly matters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating distance learning for students with IEPs presents significant challenges, but parents can find support and resources to ease the burden. Understanding that connection and emotional health take precedence can help create a more positive learning environment at home.
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