Citizenship in School: Reconceptualizing Down Syndrome

For this weeks blog we are reflecting upon Citizenship in School: Reconceptualizing Down Syndrome by Kliewer. Kliewer argues that these children should not be demoted because of a disability, but rather receive the attention they need to utilize their strengths. I loved this reading because I am so dedicated to special needs kids in my life. Throughout my life I have always been surrounded with special needs kids. I have grown up with a special needs uncle and I love spending time with him and listening to all of his stories. He participates in the special olympics and occasionally will work at the local grocery store and help bag groceries. He is a very smart guy and I believe is very independent. I also work with a down syndrome girl, Kate. Kate is a very intelligent girl. When I work with Kate, she speaks with such knowledge to both academic information and everyday information. After school, Kate is able to make her own food properly. Kate was also placed in a class with kids who do not have disabilities. This is a great idea because it gives Kate the opportunity to challenge her academics. My high school was very big on helping those with special needs feel comfortable. Nobody in my high school made fun of those with disabilities. Instead we engaged them in many school activities. These students ran our pep rallies as well as unified sports. Everyone wanted to be on the unified team In the classrooms, my school was great with "no child left behind." Once you entered that classroom everyone was equal, if you needed extra help, you were given it. Just because a child is considered disabled, does not mean they should be treated differently.  It is a teacher's job to help a struggling student who has these disabilities. This will only benefit them in the long run when they have to become independent.

http://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/about-down-syndrome/misconceptions-vs-reality/