1. Always remember that every situation is different

• Seems self explanatory, but every single special needs situation is different. No two people in any situation are the same and always remember that all people learn differently and require different forms of teaching.

2. Even if people require a different method of teaching, they are capable of anything

• People assume that folks with special needs cannot be assimilated into typical learning groups. This could not be further from the truth. Often, combining classes and learning structures helps all people grow and reach their full potential.

3. Never remove typical learning plans, just adapt.

• A common mistake people make when developing lesson plans is “watering down” the material to make it easier. While you may need to adapt your teaching style, never remove the curriculum because you feel the population is not capable. Adapt, change accordingly and take small steps
• If you remove things entirely, you are limiting yourself as a teacher and teaching your students that they are not capable of new things.

4. Make sure to recognize small things

• Oftentimes, people make the assumption that group classes or typical learning situations are too difficult for non typical learners. In reality, small adaptations can make everything run smoothly. An example: Sometimes small sensory changes can upset or make individuals with special needs feel uncomfortable. Changing the layout of class, volume of music or other sounds, or changing the lighting can eliminate this feeling and allow everyone to feel more comfortable.

5. Use all situations as teaching opportunities

• Sometimes things will not work out as planned. Use these situations as opportunities to teach rather than failures. Say you have two students that are at different learning levels and they are partners. If one student is getting frustrated by working with the other, use it as an opportunity to educate that all people learn at different speeds and excel at different areas.
• Doing so allows both students to grow not only mentally but empathetically.

6. Learn new methods of communication

• Folks with needs have various methods of communication, ranging from non verbal to an inability to read social cues and typical methods of communication.
• Take the time to learn how to communicate with each student. If for example a student is non verbal, learn to read their physical cues to help understand their emotions. This takes time, but be patient and it will come in time.

7. Learn to be calm

• Folks with special needs are traditionally way more in tune to our emotions, feeding off of them and the room in general. Learn to regulate your emotions and give off positive vibes.
• In the same vibe, when things go south, and from time to time they will, do not fly off the handle. Maintain your calm, address the situation calmly and rationally, it will diffuse the situation far easier than diving in hard will.

8. Be sure to maintain a professional relationship

• Sometimes folks in this population will not recognize the relationship as professional and will push  boundaries. Make sure that while you care and create a trusting and loving relationship you remember to keep it professional.

9. Don't get in a rut.

• It is easy to get in a rut of teaching, repeating the same curriculum because it makes everyone comfortable. This is counterproductive to everyone's progress.
• Make small changes at first, but do create variety in your class structure. You may get pushback on changes as this population thrives on continuity, but explain the importance of variety and that change is not a bad thing, it is how we grow.
• Most studies indicate one of the best teaching methods for this population is variety, so do not be afraid of change. This can include simple things like changing seating, colors, small things that are different.

10. Remember it takes a village

• Always work together with other professionals. The expression “it takes a village” applies more to this population than any other. In each individual's life, they may have doctors, therapists, caregivers, family etc. If you communicate with everyone, you can develop a cohesive plan and an environment that fosters growth in all aspects.
• If there is no communication, ideas will conflict and create instability. Work together to create the best environment.

11. Have fun

• Sounds simple, but just have fun. Learn to smile, laugh and go into every teaching opportunity feeling it will be the best one ever, because it will.