Autistic Child Essay

In senatorial debate over the Gonski 2.0 reform Senator Hanson expressed her concern that disabled children were putting undue strain on teachers and schools and therefore should be educated separately.

Hanson went on to say, quote “Most of the time the teacher spends so much time on [autistic children] they forget about the child who is straining at the bit and wants to go ahead in leaps and bounds in their education.” Consequently that child’s progression is stumped as the teacher invests a majority of their time on the autistic child, rather than the neurotypical child.

Hanson’s remarks have been met with harsh criticisms.

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Autistic spectrum disorder specialists defend that there is no evidence in support of Hanson’s claims that the inclusion of autistic children in mainstream school is a liability

Senator Hanson has totally overlooked the positive impact special needs kids have in mainstream institutions.

Dr Shiralee Poed says statistics indicate students of classes, which contain disabled children, present higher literacy and numeracy outcomes. This is in reflection of the teaching style employed to assist both neurotypical students and those with disabilities.

Hanson is right in saying teachers focus time and energy on autistic children. As they often spend their own time preparing differentiated tasks or modifying curriculum to suit the diverse needs of each special needs student.

My own mother, throughout her teaching carrier, has taught many children diagnosed with autism Spectrum Disorder. Through first hand knowledge she has observed what “An asset to the classroom” these children truly are. In reflection of their inclusion and attendance in mainstream school system, her pupils build resilient, patient and empathetic qualities while learning to be accepting of those who are