Recognizing Characteristics
Wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing
Characteristics of Asthma
PT, OT, adapted PE teachers, school nurses, or physicians
Who is involved in assessments?
Provide an example of a classroom adaptation for Asthma
Maintain an asthma action plan, allow medication and inhaler access in class, and permit the child to stop activity and rest as needed. Limit exposure to known triggers in the classroom, such as dust, strong perfumes, and animals, when possible. Provide flexibility in PE and during outdoor recess, allow make-up assignments after absences for exacerbations, and train staff on recognizing and responding to severe asthma attacks. Promote cleanliness and consider dehumidification
Provide an example of an environmental adaptation for Allergies
An environment that reduces risk while still making students know they are an integral, welcomed part of the classroom. Eliminate hidden dangers, clear routine around food, clear labeling of anything served, and consistent cleaning routines of surfaces. Purposeful and strategic seating arrangements with staff who knows how to utilize emergency medication without hesitation. Have surfaces that remain free of allergens. For seasonal allergies, clear ventilation, clean routines, and access to tissues and hand sanitizer to combat flared symptoms.
This act requires a free, appropriate public education to be provided
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Progressive muscle weakness and struggles with stairs or standing from the floor. Gets worse over time.
Characteristics of Muscular Dystrophy
A technique to record interactions with others, frequency of inappropriate behavior, and is used by MTSS teams and medical personnel
What is direct observation used for?
Provide an example of a classroom adaptation for Epilepsy
Combine safety planning, flexible academics, and stigma reduction. Maintain a clear seizure action plan and ensure staff know how to respond and who to contact in an emergency. Avoid known triggers when possible, such as flashing lights, and allow rest and catch-up time after episodes. Provide note-taking help or recorded lessons for missed instruction. Offer testing accommodations when medication or seizures affect cognition. Include age-appropriate epilepsy education for peers to reduce bullying and isolation, and help them develop a seizure response plan.
Provide an example of an environmental adaptation for Cerebral Palsy
Requires an accessible physical environment and thoughtful instruction design. Rearrange furniture to provide clear pathways and space for mobility devices, provide adjustable seating and desks, allow assistive devices for writing and communication, and offer alternative ways to demonstrate knowledge such as typing, oral responses, or recorded video projects. Break tasks into smaller steps, provide extra time for transitions and tests, and build predictable routines to reduce cognitive load. Use peer partners for collaborative work and social inclusion and explicitly teach peer supports so the student remains engaged academically and socially.
A teacher knowing this is very important
A clear picture of their capabilities and limitations
Seizure episodes, loss of awareness, disorientation, and fatigue or headache after episodes
Characteristics of Epilepsy
This can affect students' ability to test within time limits and should be observed for their assessment.
Communication problems, poor motor coordination, and vocalizing their responses.
Provide an example of a classroom adaptation for Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy- Anticipate progressive changes and support stamina and safety. Provide progressive access to mobility aids, adjustable furniture, assistive technology, and emotional support as strength declines. Reduce physical demands by providing digital textbooks, in-class materials to eliminate heavy book bags, and options to complete work orally or with adapted tools. Schedule frequent rest breaks and limit extended standing or carrying. Implement peer inclusion to maintain social identity.
Provide an example of an environmental adaptation for Diabetes
Adaptations require planned access and flexibility. Implement a Diabetes Medical Management Plan so the student can monitor glucose, take insulin, and treat hypoglycemia without delay. Permit snack breaks and restroom access at any time, offer flexibility for timed tests or strenuous activities, and coordinate with food service for meal timing. Train staff to recognize signs of low or high blood sugar and how to respond. Provide reassurance and normalize necessary health actions to reduce stigma.
Students can use this to control toys, appliances, and even the lights in their home or classroom.
What is a switch?