To increase your success in interacting with children with disabilities, ask parents, teachers, therapists, or caregivers the following practical questions.
- Does this child have any drink, food and/or environmental allergies, including potentially life-threatening reactions?
- What language does this child speak or hear at home?
- How does this child best communicate? (Examples include using a communication board, taking more time, taking frequent breaks, needing a patient listener.)
- How does this child best communicate basic needs (e.g., needing a break for restroom; wants water or break; is cold, hot, etc.)?
- What are signs that this child is becoming tired or frustrated, or needs help?
- What tends to make this child anxious?
- What is reassuring, soothing, and calming to this child (certain toys, music, writing, being outside, stuffed animals, places)?
- What do other people like about this child?
- What is important to this child?
- What supports does this child need during the day?
- What behaviors may be misunderstood by others but are typical for this child?
- Are there certain things that trigger or cause this child to become upset?
- What is helpful when this child is angry, upset, or acting out?
- This information was provided by:
- Relationship to child:
(Adapted from personal communication with R. Alexander, SAFE.)
