Children with learning disabilities and/or health conditions are termed special education children.  These children  are behind other children their age in self care skills, formal learning, and social skills. Some children may not be able to walk, some may talk poorly, or some may just need extra help in math or reading.  There are many programs for special education children and some of the best are after school.

After school programs for special education children are valuable not just for the child, but for the parent as well.  It is very difficult to care for a special education child; parents of these children have little time to themselves.  By placing your child in an after school program,  you (the parent) are giving yourself some free time.  You can use this time to do necessary things like shopping  or taking care of the home.  Parents should use this time wisely, and remember to spend time taking care of themselves and their relationships. Spend this time relaxing, perhaps talking to friends, or time along with their husband and/or wife.

Programs available for special education children include both the formal and the informal. Special education children can benefit from both of these types of after school programs.  The trick is in knowing which kind of program is right for your special education child.  Parents should pick a program that meets their child’s special needs whether the need be speech therapy, self care instruction, or tutoring in math or reading.

After school programs can be  taught by a certified teacher, a child psychologist, or just someone interested in helping children.  If you child just needs extra help in math or reading, an older student who excels in that subject may be all that is needed. 

A child psychologist may give your child one-on-one therapy to help your child cope with emotional problems associated with being sick or  being a slow learner.  The psychologist will plan activities geared towards helping the special education child improve and have greater self esteem.

Respite care is also a form of after school program for special education children. Respite care is a way for the parents to have some time alone to work on their relationship and to enjoy each others company.  Respite care workers usually work from the child’s home while the parents go out.

Formal after school programs for special education children will be structured to meet your child’s unique needs. There may be one or several teachers working with your child in a class room with other special education children.  The teachers may take the class to field trips in the community in an effort to help the child learn social skills.   They may also help your child with speech, or feeding one’s self, or hygiene.

There are many types of after school programs for special education children.  These programs have been very successful in helping special education children learn and grow.  Special education children who are able to participate in after school programs are usually more confident and much happier.  An after school program is also valuable to the parent in that they may have time to relax; which leads to a better child-parent relationship.