Many parents of children with special needs would like to boost their child’s school skills over the summer months. Improving social skills is equally important.
One way to develop social skills is to read books that depict typical childhood interactions, including age appropriate communication. If the book is read together with a parent, there is the added opportunity for discussion, role-play, and fun.
The Meghan Rose book series by Lori Z. Scott (Standard Publishing) offers just that. This series allows the child to experience everyday activities such as fashion shows, picture day, and having a secret through the eyes of a child. The books offer the chance to discuss common feelings and misconception of growing up. This is especially important for the child with special needs who may not understand things that are happening in everyday life without a little extra explanation.
Determine the Reading Activity of a Developmentally Challenged Child
Perhaps the child’s reading level matches a desired book. That could be the case for a child with a learning disability who is reading one or two grades below level. If the child chooses a book that he or she can read independently and the book is age appropriate, it is a good match.
The Meghan Rose books could be a good match for a child in the fourth or fifth grade who might also have a learning disability. The Calendar Club Mystery books might also be a good fit.
If the reading time will be shared between parent and child, then a book with a slightly harder reading level, but one that is at the child’s developmental level, is okay. Perhaps the child would struggle with the book on his own, but he can understand the concepts if assisted in the reading. This kind of reading plan might involve the parent reading aloud or a plan in which the child reads a page (or paragraph) and then the parent does the same.
Choose a Developmentally Appropriate Book
Choosing a developmentally appropriate book is extremely important. If the child cannot grasp the ideas even when hearing them read, it will be meaningless. This is different from choosing a book that will introduce more age appropriate behaviors or wording, but will be understood when heard. Some books can offer a boost in social skills as long as the child understands the language and the structure.
Look for Key Events and Phrases to Boost Special Needs Kids' Social Skills
Keep an eye out for puns, idioms, and social slang in the chosen book. Drawing the child’s attention to the expression and then making at effort to use it in conversation can help.
Summer reading offers more than just a quiet hobby. A carefully chosen book can assist in raising reading skills and build the social language that many kids with special needs require.
Lynn Moore - Moore is a freelance writer, experienced special education teacher, and mother of two. She has worked as a developmental therapist for ...
