How to Educate Mentally Retarded Children

By definition, a child who is mentally retarded must have a below-average IQ and difficulty with functioning. With the right education, however, it is possible to overcome many of these challenges and allow a child to make the transition into adulthood.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Evaluate the level of mental retardation of the child. This may require the services of health care professionals, including psychiatrists, developmental therapists, speech therapists and others. Once an examination has been completed, a plan to educate the child can be developed.

2. Address the psychological issues before placing the child in a classroom. Many high-functioning children with mild mental retardation may be hampered by feelings of inferiority and depression. It's important to understand how the child feels about her condition, which may affect social interaction and the willingness to learn.

3. Determine if the child can be placed into a mainstream student population or needs a special school. While a program of mainstreaming or full inclusion may challenge a mentally retarded child to succeed, don't overtax his abilities, especially if he has physical limitations.

4. Use behavior modification techniques. Many of retarded children act out inappropriately or engage in unacceptable behaviors simply because they know they are different and can get away with it. It's important to ignore these behaviors and to reward appropriate behavior with praise and extra privileges.

5. Develop a continuing set of goals. As the child grows older and progresses, thought should be given to vocational courses that can teach occupational skills. Success in educating mentally retarded children can be measured by their ability to live and work independently when they become adults.

Tips & Warnings

• With the passing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in 1990, children with mental or physical impairments are guaranteed the right to the same level of education as children without disabilities.
• Clinical depression is a common neurological disorder that may accompany mental retardation. A mentally retarded child should be seen by a mental health care professional, such as a psychiatrist.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Kaplan University offers more than 125 degrees and programs. Online. On campus. On your terms.

[jswim77]

on 6/26/2009 People don't use the MR word anymore. r-word.org

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on 3/30/2009 Useless