poem

[krystaltps]

Hi all, I was given this in my ASN class at teacher training college. Teachers get a lot of stick, I do it too regarding my son's school - but I thought it might help to see how we are being taught now. I'm a post-grad student, studying primary teaching, and I chose ASN as my topic. The poem does not refer solely to ASD kids, but to all who have any kind of support needs. However it will ring true regarding your own child - it did for me.

 

TEACH ME: DON'T LABEL ME by Barbara K. Given (Ph.D)

 

I am not "disabled"

I learn differently.

I am not "handicapped"

I take in and use information

that is somewhat unique to me.

Others may see me as handicapped

when they insist on teaching me

in ways through which I cannot learn

or when they insist that I demonstrate my abilities

in ways that are comfortable for them

but not for me.

It is not I who is out of step, inadequate, handicapped or disabled,

It is the system.

I don't want my teacher to be my pal, but

I do want a model and a friend.

I don't want my teacher to make life easy for me, but

I do want a teacher filled with a conviction that what

he or she teaches is important enough for me to learn

and

I do want a teacher who has enthusiasm, that encourages

me to keep working until I learn.

I don't want to be the teacher's pet, but

I do want to be treated as a person worthy of respect

in spite of my learning style or because of it.

I don't want a teacher who demands praise, but

I do want a teacher who understands my respect even

if I show it in an awkward and sometimes hostile way.

I don't want a brain transplant, but

I do want to learn as much as I am able.

I don't want a label, but

I do want an appropriate education.

I don't want to be called "learning disabled", but

I do want to learn.

Teach me.

Don't label me.

 

I hope when I finish my course in the summer, that's the kind of teacher I will be.

Take care all,

[smiley]

Brilliant

[ceecee]

This is excellent and very true