Reflective Journal #3

I am getting used to the routine of Mrs. C's classroom in the morning. I know that Canyon's schedule must be taped to his notebook when he arrives. I know he doesn’t get his notebook out of his bag by himself, ever. Most notably, I have observed that nearly everything must be done for him. Even though he is obviously intelligent, and there is clearly a lot going on in his head, he is unable to focus on just about anything throughout the two hours I am with him.

I love that the other children accept him and are exceptionally helpful. The girl that sits beside Canyon does so much for him! Without her, and the others who help him out, I honestly do not believe he would get anything done. This is very unsettling to me. While I understand that separation can be hurtful and make a child feel that they are different or not good enough, I am also finding that being with the general education class is hindering Canyon’s development.

 I feel that Canyon could be learning and growing so much more than he currently is. Instead, he is allowed to read picture books or play games on his iPad while the other students work on assignments. Also, if I had not been with his during his research assignment on the computer, I feel certain that he would not have typed even one letter. The 6^th grade teacher just isn’t able to give him the specific attention he needs.

        This is completely new territory for me. I have never been in the situation as a parent of a child with autism or any serious learning disability. It makes me wonder what resources are available and what I would choose for my child. What would he choose for himself? Today, I am simply feeling sad that Canyon’s potential is not being fully reached. Perhaps there is much more that I do not see, such as time spent with him with on an individualized learning plan. I hesitate to judge, because I am only at the school for two hours a week. I am just concerned, because, even though I have only been going to the school for a few weeks, I have really grown to like Canyon in that short time.