Some of the best tips for supporting students with disabilities are some of simplest - here are a few examples. Ask – “May I help you?” This question has tremendous power to provide clarity. This creates an opportunity for the student to communicate their needs to you and then given this awareness you are in a position to develop strategies that can help enhance that student’s learning environment. Frequently though, students with disabilities will be rather forthcoming in telling you if they need help and how you can provide it.

Speak directly to the student as you would with any other student. And should you have any difficulty understanding what they are saying simply ask them to repeat it. Be calm and patient. Take the time to understand their needs. Having a thorough understanding of their situation will definitely take time, however it’s an investment worth making.

Don’t make assumptions. If we do we may fall into the trap of not understanding the unique needs of the student.

Remember that some disabilities are non visible and not everybody with the same disability experiences the same things. We can’t pre-judge.

Above all be patient with our student and yourself. A full understanding of the students situation and the degree that you can assist that student with their needs may not be apparent right away it is a work in progress just keep the communication lines open.