Teachers can be great allies in keeping your child with Rett Syndrome safe and successful in school, but you'll need to make sure they have all the knowledge they need to help. Use these suggestions to create an information packet to bring educators up to speed.
Five Things Teachers Need to Know
1. My child needs structure and routine in order to function. Please try to keep her world as predictable as possible.
2. If there will be any sort of change in my child's classroom or routine, please notify me as far in advance as possible so that we can all work together in preparing her for it.
3. Don't just assume my child can't do things. Take the time to show him what to do in a way that is meaningful to her.
4. My child is an individual, not a diagnosis. Please be alert and receptive to the things that make her unique and special.
5. Please keep the lines of communication open between our home and the school. My child needs all the adults in her life working together.
Printouts to Share with Teachers
Rett's Disorder
Source: TAPHERD
School Placement
Source: International Rett Syndrome Foundation
What Is Rett Syndrome?
Source: International Rett Syndrome Foundation
Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Source: International Rett Syndrome Foundation
Rett Syndrome: An Overview for Professionals (PowerPoint presentation)
Source: School-Based Behavioral Health
