The ability of students to successfully interact in social situations is vital for their success. Many students with disabilities have communication problems, so the experience students with disabilities gain from after-school programs are key in developing skills needed for the real world.
social development
Extracurricular activities give students with disabilities opportunities to make friends and develop friendships which carry into the classroom. Shared interests facilitate communication and friendships.
Additionally, clubs counteract the adult dominated (aides, additional adult support) environment students with disabilities normally live in. The kid-base of clubs assists with social needs.
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"In school, your child is working on handwriting, standing in line, academic skills, appropriate classroom behavior. After school, your child may be learning to be part of a team, to support and
encourage others, or to try new things."
-Rudy [6]
encourage others, or to try new things."
-Rudy [6]
Further, clubs and other outside-school programs allow students with disabilities to improve a variety of skills, along with furthering their achievements.
shortage of club participation
teacher training:Staff play a key role in the effectiveness of an after-school role and the outcomes students gain from it. A common problem is a lack of teacher preparation and under staffing, leading to a lack of concern for individual students' needs. 60% of general education teachers feel unequipped to meet the needs of disabled students.
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ada and ideaThe Americans With Disabilities (ADA) and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are essential pieces of legislation which extend the rights of people with disabilities in the classroom (see slideshow to the right). However, loopholes in laws can create a lack of accountability.
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loopholes in the laws
Despite the numerous advantages of the ADA and IDEA, differing interpretations create loopholes. Clubs can not provide 'reasonable accommodations' if they fundamentally alter the club, pose a threat to other students, or provide to much burden on the school. Further, some services offered during the day, such as an aide, may not be provided during clubs, deterring disabled participants.
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other factors
Although less impactful, other factors contribute to low club participation rates among
students with disabilities. These factors include a lack of transportation and parent skepticism.
students with disabilities. These factors include a lack of transportation and parent skepticism.