Special children experienced a change in routine and social set-up. They had to deal with the changes with limited resources
As many as 29 per cent of children with special needs could not access online schooling during Covid-19 pandemic, a National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience (NIMHANS) research revealed.
Those belonging to lower socio-economic strata faced further challenges due to a lack of resources.
The study, however, was limited only to small portion of children with special needs who were able to attend school.
Such children experienced a change in routine and social set-up. Moreover, they had to deal with the changes with limited resources.
The problem further accentuated with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) who find it difficult to sustain attention through online classes and it is really difficult for teachers to engage them.
Kids with autism in particular, find it challenging getting through the day with a change in routine.
Since all these issues are looked at generally from the popular angle, the experiences and requirements of kids with special needs gets ignored.
These kids also have to deal with various neurological and sensory issues. These issues get further complicated with each specific disability, thus making the challenges multi-fold.
Those belonging to lower socio-economic strata faced further challenges due to a lack of resources.
Further, there is a disruption in their therapy and growth, as the support children with special needs require in terms of occupational therapy and special education may not be available and accessible online. These lead to conflicts at home, too, something that further impacts children with special needs.
Varsha KV, a practising psychologist, said parental conflicts could increase emotional concerns among children with special needs, as “the space at home may not feel safe.”
