Finding the right tutor for a child with special needs can be a daunting task. These students require additional educational support outside of the classroom, and it is essential to find a qualified tutor who can meet their specific needs.
In this guide, we will provide you with valuable insights on how to choose the best tutors for special needs kids. We will discuss the importance of hiring certified teachers with a background in special education, the significance of a tutor’s ability to vary their teaching style, and the importance of setting clear expectations and measures for success.
1. Look for Certified Teachers with a Background in Special Education
When searching for a tutor for your special needs child, it is crucial to prioritise certified teachers with experience in special education. These teachers have the necessary expertise and understanding of the local curriculum and the educational laws that govern special education.
Certified teachers are well-versed in navigating the specialised instruction requirements.They can provide tailored instruction based on your child’s specific needs, whether it involves learning disabilities, note-taking assistance, or specialised instructional methods.
Types of questions to ask to assess whether you got the right tutor:
- What’s your experience teaching special needs students in the classroom?
- What kinds of learning accommodations have you provided for your students in the past?
- Which specialised instructional methods do you have the most experience with?
As a parent, you want a tutor who is not only certified but also comfortable and enthusiastic about working with special needs students. The answers to these questions will help you gauge the tutor’s familiarity with different forms of instruction and their ability to accommodate your child’s unique learning requirements.
2. Assess the Tutor’s Ability to Vary Their Teaching Style
Students with special needs often require a range of teaching strategies to effectively engage with the material. It is essential to find a tutor who can adapt their teaching style to meet these individual needs.
Whether your child has a specific learning disability, speech or language impairment, ADHD, dyslexia, or autism, the tutor should be able to adjust their approach accordingly. They should be capable of incorporating manipulatives, visual aids, hearing aids, or sign language instruction, depending on your child’s requirements.
Working with a certified teacher ensures that your special needs student receives professional support tailored to their needs.
Types of questions to ask:
- What type of learning style would you use to engage my child?
- How would you handle disruptions or negative behaviour?
- How do you decide on the length of each tutoring session?
Detailed examples provided by the tutor will give you insight into their comfort level and experience with students similar to your child.
You want a tutor who can create a positive learning environment, remain patient, and adjust their teaching methods to address any challenges or frustrations your child may face.
3. Gauge Your Tutor’s Expectations and Measures for Success
When choosing a tutor for your special needs child, it is essential to manage expectations and create a positive teaching environment.
Discuss with the tutor how to define success and what specific learning goals you have for your child.It is crucial for both you and the tutor to have a clear understanding of what success looks like for your child.
Types of questions to ask:
- What kind of experience do you have in measuring the progress of special needs students?
- How do you define success in tutoring?
- How would you motivate my student if they felt tired or frustrated?
The tutor’s responses should demonstrate their ability to provide positive reinforcement, handle challenges, and motivate a tired or frustrated student. Look for a tutor who is enthusiastic, patient, and flexible, and who understands that even small progress is a significant achievement for a special needs student.
4. Review Your Child’s Individualised Education Program (IEP)
If your child has undergone an assessment for his/her special needs, you may be provided with an individualised education programme.
If your child has an IEP, ensure that the teacher is familiar with it and has experience implementing similar plans. Collaboration and communication are crucial for the success of your child’s education.
At Kaleidoscope, we provide thorough assessments to evaluate whether or not your child has special needs like Autism or ADHD. With the appropriate assessments done, you may engage a specialised home based tuition session for your child if required.
5. Ask for References
When considering a special needs teacher for your child, it’s essential to ask for references to gain a comprehensive understanding of the teacher’s abilities and approach. By requesting references, you can directly contact individuals who have first-hand experience working with the teacher. These references may include previous employers, colleagues, or even parents of other special needs students.
Engaging in conversations with these individuals allows you to gather valuable insights into the teacher’s strengths, weaknesses, communication style, and overall effectiveness in addressing the unique needs of special education students.
This information is crucial in making an informed decision, providing you with a more well-rounded perspective on the teacher’s professional background and interpersonal skills.
6. Check Teacher’s Qualifications
Moreover, checking the teacher’s qualifications is a critical step in ensuring they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to meet your child’s specific needs.
Special needs teachers should hold relevant certifications and qualifications in special education, demonstrating their expertise in working with diverse learning abilities. Look for educators who have completed specialised training or have advanced degrees in special education.
Additionally, inquire about their experience working with students who share similar challenges to your child. Understanding the teacher’s qualifications provides assurance that they have the foundational knowledge to implement effective teaching strategies and accommodations.
By evaluating the teacher’s qualifications, you can feel confident that they have the educational background and expertise needed to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment tailored to your child’s unique requirements.
Choosing the right special needs teacher for your child
Choosing the right tutor for your special needs child is a crucial decision. By prioritising certified teachers with a background in special education, assessing their ability to vary their teaching style, and establishing clear expectations and measures for success, you can ensure that your child receives the support they need to thrive academically.
If your child requires home-based tuition with teachers specialising in helping children with special needs, you may explore our home-based tuition programmes to find out more!
