296 chapter 34
STEPS IN DESIGNING A PROGRAM OF SPECIAL LEARNING
AND EARLY STIMULATION
First: Observe the child closely to evaluate what he can and cannot do in each
developmental area.
Second: Notice what things he is just beginning to do or still has difficulty with.
Third: Decide what new skill to teach or action to encourage that will help the
child build on the skills he already has.
Fourth: Divide each new skill into small steps: activities the child can learn in a day
or two, and then go on to the next step.
CAUTION: Do not expect too much at once. Be realistic.
Start with what the child can do well and then encourage him
to do a little more. By giving the right help at the right time,
both the helpers and the child will feel successful and happy.
SUGGESTIONS FOR DOING LEARNING ACTIVITIES WITH ANY CHILD
(DELAYED OR NOT)
Be patient and observant. Children do not learn all the time; sometimes they need
to rest. When they are rested, they will begin to progress again. Observe the child
closely. Try to understand how she thinks, what she knows, and how she uses her
new skills. You will then learn how to help her practice and improve those skills. When
talking with the child, give her time to answer your questions. Take turns speaking.
Remember that practice and repetition are important.
Be orderly and consistent. Plan special activities to progress naturally from one
skill to the next. Try to play with the child at about the same time each day, and to put
his toys, tools, clothes, and so on, in the same place. Stay with one style of teaching,
loving, and behavior development (if it works!). Respond in a similar way each time
to the child’s actions and needs. This will help him to understand and to feel more
confident and secure.
Use variety. While repetition is important, so is variety! Change the activities a little
every day, so that the child and her helpers do not get bored. Do things in different
ways, and in various places inside and outside of the house. Take the child to the
market, fields, and the river. Give her a lot of things to do.
Be expressive. Use your face and your tone of voice to show your feelings and
thoughts. Speak clearly and simply (but do not use ‘baby talk’). Praise and encourage
the child often.
Have a good time! Look for ways to turn all activities into games that both the child
and you enjoy.
Be practical. Whenever possible choose skills and activities that will help the child
become more independent and be able to do more, for himself and for others. To help
prepare the child for greater independence, do not overprotect him.
Be confident. All children will respond in some way to care, attention, and love.
With your help, a child who is delayed can become more able and independent.
A special learning program, if well-planned and carefully done, can
help a delayed child progress much more than she would without help.
Disabled village Children