I recently embarked on a new tutoring journey, working one-on-one with a disabled teenager for an hour each day. This young man faces visible intellectual and learning disabilities, presenting a unique set of challenges compared to facilitating lessons for our typical boys.
It is however heartening to see that with consistent effort and tailored approaches, he is able to grasp and retain information.
This experience resonates on a deeply personal level. As a parent to a six-year-old son with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), I have a firsthand understanding of the daily hurdles that families navigating disability face. This shared perspective allows me to approach this role with greater empathy and understanding for both the teenager and his family.
My faith also shapes my outlook on this journey. I hold onto the belief that God sees the almost constant effort and the love poured into caring for children with special needs. I trust that in His time, there will be profound consolation and comfort for both the carer and the child, especially for those who wait patiently on Him.
From a practical standpoint, the goal is to develop a structured learning path. While I haven’t yet been able to finalise a formal Individualised Education Plan (IEP) – primarily due to difficulties in establishing consistent cooperation with his parents – the intention is clear. Once established, his lessons will be adapted from one of the SACCE grade materials, enhanced with supplementary activities and worksheets designed to support his specific learning style.
Assessing his overall academic standing has been challenging, as I’m still awaiting the reports I was promised regarding his previous progress. Without that baseline, our focus necessarily shifts to the here and now. We concentrate on making steady daily progress, building a trusting relationship, and maintaining a positive, supportive learning environment.
0 Comments