Homeschooling as an Option for Teaching Children with Special Needs

I like that in articles such as this, you delineate what many people, I feel, are struggling to give voice to, in their own effort to decide such a matter. The pros and cons, earned through your own research and experience are presented concisely and are very articulate. Something people can sit down with and go over, it helps in making their own decisions. The Ten Ways to Get Your Child's Attention is a classic example of your innovations.

I wonder how long you have been home schooling? Your patience and imagination must be as extensive as your education. I advocate the option for home schooling be available and unfettered by unnecessary restrictions. It should always be a choice for parents.

I admit to knowing very little about home schooling, that is before I read your post. You make me understand what a commitment it is. I do know that the academic statistics for home schooled students are good and I think it has to be even more beneficial for the child with special needs. My sister is an elementary school teacher and has taught "special" education in several counties. She has told me of some of the challenges she has faced in classrooms with kids of varying ages, skills, behavioral issues, and other special needs. It would seem difficult for many special needs kids to adapt to the demands of a classroom environment, as we expect students to do. I know from my sister that it is difficult for one or two teachers to meet all the special needs in a mixed classroom of special need students, although she tries very hard to do so. For those who can make the sacrifices to home school, I am sure it is the best chance at success for many special needs kids, but certainly not all. It is a tough decision for the parents.