A special needs child needs some choices

There are five disorders that are included in the Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD); autistic disorder, asperger’s disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), rett’s disorder, and PDD-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). According to the CDC, the numbers born with autism or another of the PDDs is on the rise. In 2007, one in every 150 births was afflicted with autism. According to the U.S. Department of Education, autism is growing at a rate of 10-17 percent per year. More and more children are affected, and we need to make sure we are caring for them adequately, which includes their education.

The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) assures a free and appropriate public education for every child with a disability. This means a child in public education should be free, and appropriate for his/her age, ability, and developmental level.

A child with special needs has different educational needs. Some schools may not be able to provide for those students adequately. Those children should not be denied the chance at a good education; they need the option of switching to a school that has the capabilities of educating them properly.