Research and Report: Possible Impacts of Exceptionalities on Language and Literacy Development for Kindergarteners and Primary School-Age Children
If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.
—Ignacio Estrada
Fair doesn’t mean giving every child the same thing, it means giving every child what they need.
—Lavoie, 1989
What does it mean to be “exceptional”? Although one well-known definition of the term is outstanding, the term has also come to describe individuals who learn in different ways. Whether as a result of cognitive, physical, or psychological factors, some children follow a unique path that they, their peers, and their family may never fully understand. In his book Far From the Tree, Andrew Solomon chronicled his journey with more than 300 families as he worked alongside them to better understand the supports needed for some children not only to survive but to thrive (Solomon, 2012). With a unique journey ahead, what might some children need you to do differently as they learn language and literacy? How do we move from “He can’t learn this” to “He just hasn’t learned this yet,” or “How can I explain this differently so he can learn it?”
In this Discussion, you explore the possible effects of exceptionalities on language and literacy development. You also conduct research to further explore an exceptionality of your choosing. As you approach this Discussion, also consider your own experiences in working or living with young children whose lives are affected by cognitive, physical, and/or psychological factors.
To prepare
Review the academic proficiency model presented in the Newhall resource. Then, consider why young children with exceptionalities may be at risk for not becoming academically proficient. Last, select one of the exceptionalities that can affect language and literacy development for kindergarteners and primary-age children:
• Specific language/learning disability
• Intellectual disability
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Hearing impairment
• Visual impairment
• Other health impairment