What do you think of peer support groups in schools for children with disabilities?
Answer
It is better for children to form peer relationships in a natural context of play. Think back to some of your closest childhood relationships. These bonds were formed in a natural way. While peer support groups can be helpful, they usually are not long lasting as they are led by adults and are not formed naturally. However, they can be used in conjunction with other opportunities for engagement between children with disabilities and children without. Children want to reach out and help those who need it. It is a natural process that we should support and provide the opportunities.
Cindy Clough, MS, OT
Cindy is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) in the Occupational Therapy Program. Inspired by having worked with special education programs in over ten school districts as an occupational therapist and as an administrator for contract services for those districts, Cindy completed a Master's of Science Degree in Administrative Leadership from UWM in 2008. In addition to her commitment to improving services for children identified as needing special education services, Cindy advocates for equity in educational practices for all students. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in the Social Foundations of Urban Education at UWM.
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