Unlocking the potential of children with special needs requires dedicated educators who embrace unconventional teaching methods and demonstrate patience. Ecelina Lulu, the Assistant Head Teacher at the Hilton Early Intervention Centre in Suva, highlights the significance of recognizing each child’s unique abilities instead of relying solely on standard educational curricula.
Lulu emphasizes that the initial three to four weeks of the school year should focus on closely observing students to assess a variety of skills, including cognitive, physical, fine motor, and vocational abilities. While many children may find traditional tasks like writing challenging, they often exhibit remarkable talents in other areas, such as music. By identifying these strengths, teachers can facilitate substantial progress and create meaningful learning experiences tailored to each child.
Supporting this personalized approach is Sisilia Saulekaleka, another educator at the center, who notes that students thrive when lessons are aligned with their individual interests. She shares the story of Aquila, a student on the autism spectrum, who is more engaged when lessons draw upon his passion for drawing. Saulekaleka observes that connecting learning to a child’s interests diminishes agitation and bolsters their capacity to absorb information.
The Hilton Early Intervention Centre promotes individualized teaching strategies, emphasizing ongoing observation and the recognition of each child’s strengths. These efforts are crucial in helping students with special needs build self-confidence and fostering an educational environment that nurtures growth. Ultimately, by focusing on these unique abilities, educators are laying the groundwork for a brighter future where children’s extraordinary talents can truly shine.