Social Implications

Children work hard to try and be everyone's friend. It is hard on a student when someone in their class does not want to play with them or picks them out of the class because they are different than everyone else. Depending on the dynamics of the classroom, students with disabilities can be friends with everyone and gain a lot of positive attention and on occasion as they get older, they are bullied because they are so different from all the other students.

• Social competence
  In the inclusive setting students make more progress in social competence, communication skills, self-regulation and choice
• Behavior
  Students have a better understanding of their behavior in a social situation and therefore do better around their peers.
• Social skills
  Students found to be separated from their peers all day are found to have a regression in social skills
• Peer tutoring overall
  Not only helps the student with the disability but also the peer who is working to not only help with academics but communication as well
• Peer tutoring everyday life
  Students are found to use the social skills they learn in tutoring and apply it to other times in their everyday life
• Families' visions of a typical life for their children can come true.
  All parents want their children to be accepted by their peers, have friends and lead "regular" lives. Inclusive settings can make this vision a reality for many children with disabilities.
• Children develop a positive understanding of themselves and others.
  When children attend classes that reflect the similarities and differences of people in the real world, they learn to appreciate diversity. Respect and understanding grow when children of differing abilities and cultures play and learn together.
• Friendships develop.
  Schools are important places for children to develop friendships and learn social skills. Children with and without disabilities learn with and from each other in inclusive classes.
• Children learn important academic skills.
  In inclusive classrooms, children with and without disabilities are expected to learn to read, write and do math. With higher expectations and good instruction children with disabilities learn academic skills.  
• All children learn by being together.
  Because the philosophy of inclusive education is aimed at helping all children learn, everyone in the class benefits. Children learn at their own pace and style within a nurturing learning environment.

Benefits of Inclusion