Multiple Disabilities (MD)

According to the Texas Education Agency (2019) Multiple disabilities refers to "concomitant impairments (such as intellectual disability-blindness or intellectual disability-orthopedic impairment), the combination of which causes such severe educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in special education programs solely for one of the impairments. Multiple disabilities does not include deaf-blindness."

Common traits/characteristics 

• Limited communication/ social skills

• Difficulty in completing tasks that require basic physical mobility

• Difficulty in transitioning tasks from one context to another

• The need for additional guidance in areas of life such as work, school, or leisure activities

Educational challenges:

• The levels of abilities can vary depending on a variety of factors. The abilities can range from academic instruction, as well as basic life skills.

• If there are any physical deficits, when it comes to motor skills, students may have limited independence and access to their classroom environment.

Tips/ recommendations for teachers:

• The teacher can provide assistive technology based on the student's specific needs

• Encourage participation in the class

• Create personalized schedules and educational plans for each student