Working with Children with Learning Difficulties and Autism
I have been living life following an holistic approach, looking after myself as a whole, not just any one aspect of my life. As part of this philosophy, I have done a number of courses to become a healer, which I practice on a voluntary basis. I also practice yoga and meditation and am a outreach instructor.
I have been instructing for a relatively short time, I am enjoying it immensely, it has a completely different energy to when you are following an instructor.
I have always liked the idea of working with children, I have now found an exciting challenge which I am looking forward to taking up. I have managed to obtain an opportunity to teach at a local primary school, however, it is not your everyday run of the mill school. It is a school for children with learning difficulties and in the Autistic spectrum.
Today, I was fortunate enough to be able to visit the school and meet the children. The school caters for children of varying ability, they have 2 classes for each year, 1 class deals with the autistic children whilst the other class is for children with learning difficulties and minor disabilities.
To teach these children yoga will not only be a challenge but it will also be a great honour and extremely rewarding for me. It will pathe the way for me to get closer to my goal and vision. It is an experience I will relish, it will go some way in my efforts to give something back to our society, I am really looking forward the challenge.
I must admit at the moment the prospect is quite daunting, I am currently trying to put together a program for the 2 classes I shall be taking. I actually start this on Friday 23rd January, for me it will be a momentous occaision, I can’t express the joy I am feeling.
Has anyone worked with children with Autism or Learning disabilities? Apart from having the patience, what other characteristics will I need to show with these children? If anyone can give some tips I would much appreciate it. I want to be able to do a good job, this will not only be an interesting position, it will also test my leadership skills and credentials.
I will welcome any feedback whatsoever to allow me to improve teaching skills and help me to grow further.
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Tags: autistic children, children with learning difficulties, holistic approach, learning disabilities, outreach instructor, practice yoga, working with children
January 29th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Hi There
Good luck with your programme.
My daughter has disabilities and I think the most important thing is to encourage them in whatever they can do.
Doing something we take for granted is exceptionally difficult for these children.
All the best
Andrew
February 2nd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Hi Andrew,
Thanks for your comment, after giving a few classes, I have noticed that the children are trying harder in doing the exercises. A little encouragement and a smile has made a difference in them wanting to participate. Thank you.