Teaching Tips for Teachers with Students who have Physical Disabilities

As a teacher you should always remember that the child is a student first and disabled second. You should understand that by side stepping certain things you will make the child uncomfortable. Don’t worry about using phrases such as “Let’s run over to this topic” if the child is in a wheelchair. The more uncomfortable and forced you appear, the more uneasy your student will be in your classroom.

Although you do not want to appear to give special treatment to any child, there is a difference between special treatment and understanding your student's physical disability. You may find that students in wheelchairs or with other physical disabilities are not able to be on time to classrooms for many reasons such as a broken elevator. Be understanding that this is something that is beyond their control, they should not be disciplined for it.

You should also be aware that some medications that are taken for physical disabilities or illness will cause your student to be tired, inattentive or cause concentration issues. If you notice these issues make sure to address them not only with your student, but also with his/her parents to see if there is an alternative.

When making your seating chart for your classroom you will need to keep in mind the needs of your physically disabled student. Remember that a student with a wheelchair will need to be able to move up and down the aisle easily without bumping into other desk or objects. Not only is this a requirement for daily movement, but also in the event of an emergency. A student in a wheelchair will also need a desk that is high enough off of the ground so that they are able to roll their wheelchair under the desk comfortably.

Other students with physical disabilities will also need special accommodations when it comes to classroom mobility and seating. Discuss with your student and their parents what needs they will have or things they can suggest that will make the classroom easiest on your student. You should also keep in mind that some students with a physical disability will have classroom aides to help assist them with certain daily activities and space for them near the child will be needed.

When having activities outside of the classroom make sure that there are special accommodations for your physically disabled student. When you are planning a field trip make sure to ask questions about accommodations for everything you plan to do so that your physically disabled student can be a part of the entire event.