Expert: Tim Runner - 8/17/2011

Question
Hi Tim,

Our son is judt started in 2nd grade. He has autism, ambulatory, able to understand some vervbal command (increasing) but words still coming up. He need to be in a class where he can interact or learn more vocabulary. Program specialist place him to other kids in a wheel chair and doesn't interact. I just want to know if there's away for him to be in  a group lik him (ambulatory and can interact with others). We requested placement but seems ignored. Will you please help or e-mail more about his right?

Thank you very much.

Answer
-- Martin,

Finding the right class (or classes) for special needs children can be a challenge. Some of the students I represent are able to attend general education classes for part of the day with the help of a one-to-one aide. Others spend time at lunch and recess with other kids. I applaud the growing number of schools that are setting up "buddy" programs where general education students can volunteer to visit with and work with special needs kids in their class rooms or at a certain location at lunch. Unfortunately, you sometime have to push the school to do more. Often it's an understanding teacher or administrator that makes things happen. You should request an IEP to discuss this situation. The law says the student must be in the least restrictive environment. This means he needs to be with his peers. If you son's school still does nothing, you may need to get an Advocate, like me, involved.

I wish you and your son the best,
Tim Runner, Advocate
Advocates for Kids
Email: timrunner@gmail.com
Phone: (949) 582-3601
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com