A naturally associated pair or group of impairments which when both are present negatively affect one's academic performance. This does not include deaf-blindness.
"Concomitant impairments (such as mental retardation-blindness, mental retardation-orthopedic impairment, etc.), the combination of which cause such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in a special education program solely for one of the impairments. The term does not include deaf-blindness."
General Information:
2.1% of students under IDEA
The two impairments that can not be accommodated within a program devoted to just one of the impairment
At least two categories of imapirments must be present
The least restrective environment for students with multiple didabilities is determined by a case conference team
Families, medical professionals, teachers
Peer-support networks and participation in after school activities are highly encouraged
Many have coeisting medial needs and require special medical care
Characteristics of Multiple Disabilities:
Characteristics of their two diagnoses will be present
Generally have severe cognitive and adaptative behavior difficulties
Require insturctions in:
Self-help skills
Communication skills
Functional academic skills
Daily living skills
Community awareness
Adaptations for Studente with Multiple Disabilities:
Establish good working relationships with all members of the student's team, inlcuding paraprofessionals, parents, teachers, medical professionals
Paraprofessionals/Paraeducators
Someone who accompanies student for the entire day
Able to help teacher adapt materials for student, review and practice topics learned, help student with personal care, etc.
Prepare students for arrival of students who may learn differently than them
Be open and honest about what they can expect
Involve parents and other professionals in these conversations
Differentiate insruction
Understand and monitor special health care needs
Many adaptations for students with intellectual disabilities can be used for students with multiple disabilities as well
Other adaptations can be made based on what their specific impairments are
N/A
N/A
What are common impairments pairings/groupings?
How many students classified as having multiple disabilities are in public schools?
I know you said that deaf-blindness is not common in public schools so I'm curious to see if other combinations are not common in public schools