Learning with Special Needs: A Guide for Parents and TeachersÂ

FiveOwls is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where all learners can thrive. We understand that children have diverse learning styles and abilities, and we’re here to support both parents and educators in fostering successful learning experiences for everyone.

Parents: Helping Your Child Shine

• Finding the Perfect Fit: Many FiveOwls teachers have extensive experience working with children of various learning abilities. Our platform allows you to directly message teachers before enrolling your child. Share your child’s unique needs and any accommodations they might require to ensure the teacher is the right match.
• Open Communication is Key: Once enrolled, feel free to share additional context with the teacher regarding your child’s learning style. While we recommend not sharing documents containing personal information (like IEPs or 504 Plans), you can highlight relevant learning strategies, interventions, and preferred resources to support the teacher in creating an effective learning plan.
• Collaboration is Key: By providing context on your child’s needs, you empower the teacher to tailor their approach and maximize your child’s learning experience. Here are some helpful details to consider sharing:
  • Does your child benefit from additional wait time to process information?
  • Are visual prompts or cues helpful for your child?
  • Are there any topics or activities your child might find challenging?
  • What learning strategies have been successful for your child in the past?
• Inclusive Learning: If you’d like your child to learn alongside peers with similar needs, you can request a private class section from the teacher. This allows for a customized learning environment designed specifically for your child and their friends.

Remember, you are the expert on your child’s unique needs. FiveOwls is here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

Teachers: Fostering Inclusive Classrooms

• Showcase Your Expertise: Highlight your qualifications in special education on your teacher profile and within your class listings. List any relevant certifications, licenses, or endorsements you hold, as well as any specialized programs you’ve completed (e.g., Wilson Reading, Montessori).
• Share Your Success Stories: Showcase the positive impact you’ve had on learners with diverse needs in your teacher profile and class listings. Be sure to remove any personally identifiable information (PII) from student testimonials.
• Craft Compelling Class Descriptions: Use your class descriptions (including video introductions) to highlight your expertise in specific learning strategies and topics. Clearly explain how your classes cater to diverse learning needs and what students can expect from your instruction.
• Tailored Instruction: Communicate with families to understand any learning modifications or goals specific to their child. This allows you to personalize your approach and ensure each student is supported in achieving their full potential.
• Creating Engaging Learning Experiences: During class, monitor both verbal and nonverbal cues to determine if additional support (scaffolding) or increased challenge (extending) is needed for individual learners. Balance your teaching methods to promote engagement and minimize frustration. Provide opportunities for students to showcase their learning in formats that align with their unique learning styles and needs.
• Open Communication with Parents: Following each class, connect with families to share insights on their child’s progress. Highlight areas of success, any challenges encountered, and the next steps for continued learning. Strive to balance any educational jargon with clear and concise language that is easily understood by all families.
• Continuous Growth: Reflect on your teaching practices regularly to identify areas for improvement and enhance your ability to support all learners effectively.

FiveOwls welcomes educators who are passionate about creating inclusive learning environments. Let’s work together to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive!