As a teacher, you are responsible for helping every student in your class succeed. This includes providing accommodations to students with disabilities. Accommodations are changes to the learning environment that allow students with disabilities to access the curriculum and participate in class activities. Every student has the right to an equal education, and as a teacher, you can help make that happen.

Understanding Disabilities

Before you can provide accommodations to students with disabilities, it’s important to understand what disabilities are and how they affect students in the classroom. Here are some common disabilities and their characteristics:

💚 Autism - Students with autism may have difficulty with communication, socializing, and sensory processing.

💙 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Students with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, sitting still, and controlling their impulses.

💛 Visual Impairments - Students with visual impairments may have difficulty seeing written work, presentations, and other visual aids.

💜 Hearing Impairments - Students with hearing impairments may have difficulty hearing spoken instructions, participating in group discussions, and listening to lectures.

💖 Learning Disabilities - Students with learning disabilities may have difficulty with reading, writing, math, or organization.

Creating Accommodations

Here are some practical tips for creating accommodations for students with disabilities:

Get to know your students

Take the time to get to know your students and their individual needs. This can help you create accommodations that are tailored to each student.

A teacher talking to a student in the classroom.

Use Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is software, devices, or equipment that can help students with disabilities access the curriculum. For example, students with visual impairments may benefit from screen readers or magnification software, while students with ADHD or learning disabilities may benefit from speech-to-text software or organizational tools.

A student with a visual impairment using a screen reader to access a website.

Provide Visual aids

Visual aids can be helpful for students with disabilities that impact their visual processing or learning. For example, students with ADHD may benefit from illustrated instructions, while students with visual impairments may benefit from large-print materials or braille.

A class presentation with visual aids projected on a screen.

Offer Alternate Modes of Presentation

Some students with disabilities may have difficulty processing information in a traditional lecture format. Offering alternate modes of presentation, such as hands-on activities or group discussions, can help these students access the curriculum.

A group of students working together on a project.

Provide Extra Time

Students with disabilities may need extra time to complete assignments or tests. Providing extra time can help these students demonstrate their knowledge and skills without being penalized for their disability.

A student taking a test with extra time on the clock.

Conclusion

Providing accommodations for students with disabilities is essential to ensuring that they receive an equal education. By taking the time to understand your students’ needs and creating accommodations that are tailored to each individual, you can help your students succeed in the classroom and beyond.

A classroom with students learning together.