The hosts welcome Kathy Hoback, the disability support services coordinator at Metropolitan Community College, to talk about ways to help children with disabilities and special needs in the education system. A disability is anything that affects one or more major life functions, including learning. One of the best things parents who have children with special needs can do when navigating their education is to be proactive. That looks different depending on the age and whether a student is in the public education system or is homeschooled. Either way, the sooner parents notice their child has special needs and seek testing or answers, the better. Once the parents and the child have a diagnosis, they can start finding ways to support the student with special needs in the classroom. Some modifications or accommodations a child with special needs might include: A longer test More time to read a book or work on an assignment A quiet room to work on assignments or projects Some of these modifications aren’t possible at the college level. That’s why it’s important for parents who have children with special needs to prepare their students for college. Kathy says around the time a child is 14 to 16 years old, they need to start what’s called the “transition of rights.” That means the child starts understanding their own disability and taking charge of their education so they can be their own advocate. This helps the student with special needs gain their own autonomy. Knowing what their diagnosis is and how they learn best will help them pursue help and advocate for themselves in college or post-high school education. Kathy wanted every parent who has a child with special needs to know, everything is going to be okay. The earlier they reach out to a professional for help, the better for their child’s education. Thanks for joining us this week! ____    Don’t forget to click the “bell” to SUBSCRIBE to get more videos like this to grow your faith!    The Family Ministry at Abundant Life is here to help you build a family that lasts. Check out livingproof.co/family for more resources.    Listen to The Well Podcast ⤵   https://www.youtube.com/playlist...    Connect with us on Social Media ⤵   Facebook: www.facebook.com/abundantlifels   Instagram: www.instagram.com/abundantlifels     More information on our sermons: livingproof.co/sermons   #AbundantLife #Podcast #FamilyMinistry #Christian #Specialneeds