Learning Disabilities and Adaptive Behavior
— February 20, 2018Learning disability is not uncommon these days. Both neuro-typical and special children may have learning disability. But adaptive behavior can go a long way to help children with such disabilities to do well in life.
Adaptive behavior, in simple terms, refers to age-appropriate behaviors people without or with learning disabilities require to live independently. Various types of real-life skills are included in adaptive behaviors, like getting dressed, grooming, safe food handling, avoiding danger, cleaning, managing finances, following school rules, and making friends. It also often includes practicing social skills, ability to work, and taking care of oneself.
Developmental Disabilities among Children
Adaptive behavior is often referred to as independent living, social competence, life skills, independent living, or simply behavioral functioning.
It is beneficial for child to pick up these behaviors and grow up as productive members in the society.
Adaptive behavioral assessments are often carried out to evaluate students having learning disabilities. Such assessments help to determine the behavioral strengths and weakness that needs to be addressed among these students for improving their chances to succeed in school.
What it Means if Your Child has Special Needs
Adaptive behavior usually comprises a questionnaire that has to be answered by teachers, students (as and where possible), parents, adult learners, and anyone who may benefit from it. A child’s actual performance on a specific skill is often taken into consideration to determine the behavioral therapy.
Many special children may require customized instructions for learning adaptive behavior. These instructions help them to develop, organizational, planning, and study skills. All these are important adaptive behaviors.
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