Information for Parents

Below are some of the questions parents often ask us and the guidance we offer. Please understand that every child’s educational needs are different and answers vary from case to case.

I am not sure that I have a proper understanding of what Inclusive Education in South Africa really means. Can you give me some guidance?

According to our constitution every child has the right to education. However some children are excluded from schools and some children struggle to learn successfully even though they have been admitted to schools. Inclusive Education recognises the diversity of children’s learning needs and strives to provide schooling, be it at special or mainstream schools, that supports each child to reach his/ her full potential

My child is struggling in school. Should we be considering special schooling?

Talk to your child's teacher to find out what they recommend. In an Inclusive Education System every effort should be made to provide support to a child at his/her current school before a move is suggested. Assistance from the Learning Support teacher, volunteer reading programme, or extra lessons can all be ways of helping your child. Focus on his/her strengths to boost confidence.

My child has Down Syndrome and I would like him to be included in mainstream school. What are my rights and options?

Inclusion of children with Down Syndrome and other forms of intellectual disability has become common practice in some countries. Many children with DS can learn to read & write, and interaction with non-disabled peers can help them to learn good language & social skills. The SA Schools Act makes provision for the education of learners with special education needs at ordinary public schools where reasonably practicable. Speak to the principals of schools near to you and ask them if they would be willing to accept your child.

My child is in a wheelchair and our local school does not have wheelchair access. What are our rights?

You can approach the School Governing Body (SGB) about making provision for your child. An Inclusive Education System, as promoted in Education White Paper 6 (2001), requires that ordinary schools make provision for children with disabilities wherever possible, and schools can seek support from their local district office. Portable ramps can assist your child's access whilst permanent alterations are arranged.

My child is dyslexic. What can I do to help?

Find out as much as you can about the condition via the internet and/or IEWC's Resource Centre. Talk to your child's teacher to find out if she/he has experience of children with this type of learning difficulty. Children with dyslexia are often very bright and need opportunities to learn & express themselves in ways other than by reading & writing. Discuss with the teacher alternatives such as verbal assessment, extra time, etc.

My child has been diagnosed with ASD (PDD) and is currently attending a local Educare centre. What are my options in terms of schooling for my child?

There are some schools that specialise in teaching children with this condition, although they have long waiting lists. Alternatively the nearest special school to where you live can be approached. Some mainstream schools have units for learners with special educational needs that provide a smaller classroom environment. Some learners with ASD can manage in a mainstream class with the support of an individual facilitator, but the cost of this generally falls to the parents. Note this is a spectrum disorder and children can be affected to different degrees therefore needs vary.

My child is on a special school waiting list and is currently at home, what can we do?

You should apply to your local mainstream school to see if they can accommodate your child whilst waiting for special school admission. If he/she is of pre-school age then try to enrol him/her in a preschool or educare centre near to where you live. All young children benefit from a stimulating early learning environment, regardless of any disability.

My child is on a special school waiting list and is currently attending a mainstream school, what should the school be doing to help him?

The school should be trying to meet your child's learning needs as far as is possible. Ideally an individualised learning support plan would be drawn up, but this will depend a lot on how experienced the teacher is and what learning support resources are available. Try to establish and maintain good communication with your child's teacher and ask what you can do to help.

I am worried that my child is not coping in school. Should I have him assessed, and how do I go about doing that?

First of all consult your child's teacher about your concern. She/he will possibly reassure you, or will confirm that your child is struggling in class. The teacher might suggest that your child be assessed by an occupational therapist. Some schools have a particular therapist that comes to the school. There will usually be a fee involved that can be claimed from your medical aid scheme if you have one. Alternatively, the teacher might ask the Education Department's psychologist to do an assessment. This can sometimes mean a long wait. You are welcome to consult a private therapist or psychologist at your own expense.

Where can I find information to help my child with special needs?

The internet is a great source of information on different types of special needs but sometimes there is so much information it can be confusing so please feel free to contact us at our resource centre from Monday - Friday 9am - 3pm on (021) 674 1422. Alternatively you can visit our Resource Centre where you will find a wide variety of information in our library.

Should you need help with a specific enquiry please email us below and we will reply ASAP.

Your name:
Your email address:
Your phone number:
How can we help you?

* If you would like to become a member of IEWC complete our online application form.  More about our membership benefits