Students with Disabilities or Special Healthcare Needs
It is necessary to plan for accommodations, modifications, and assistance for children with disabilities and special healthcare needs.
It is necessary to plan for accommodations, modifications, and assistance for children with disabilities and special healthcare needs.
An individualized approach for COVID-19 may be needed for children:
- with disabilities who have limited mobility;
- have difficulty accessing information due to visual, hearing, or other limiting factors;
- require close contact with direct service providers;
- have trouble understanding information;
- have difficulties with changes in routines; or
- have other concerns related to their disability.
This approach should account for the following:
- Education should remain accessible for children in special education who have a 504 Plan or Individualized Education Program.
- Social distancing and isolation at school may be difficult for many people with disabilities.
- Wearing masks may be difficult for people with certain disabilities (e.g., visual or hearing impairments) or for those with sensory, cognitive, or behavioral issues.
- Students may require assistance or visual and verbal reminders to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when they cough or sneeze, throw the tissue in the trash, and wash their hands afterward.
- Where service or therapy animals are used, use guidance to protect the animal from COVID-19.
- Cleaning and disinfecting procedures may negatively affect students with sensory or respiratory issues.
- Students may require assistance or supervision washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using a hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Cleaning and disinfecting personal belongings, school objects, or surfaces may require assistance or supervision.
- Behavioral techniques can help all students adjust to changes in routines and take preventive actions. These techniques may be especially beneficial for some children with disabilities and may include modeling and reinforcing desired behaviors and using picture schedules, timers, and visual cues. Organizations that support individuals with disabilities have information and resources to help schools with these behavioral techniques. Also, behavioral therapists or local mental health or behavioral health agencies may provide consultation for specific concerns.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-11. How long should students wash their hands with soap and water?
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