An individual educational programme for an adolescent with global developmental delay

Abstract

As a teacher, I have developed an interest in children with developmental delay. I have been struck by the effectiveness of Programmes for such children in improving their quality of life. I would like to understand better the experiences, needs and difficulties of these individuals. My aim is to be able to share with fellow teachers how individuals experiencing developmental delay, can be taught and can learn through Programmes tailored to their needs. Recently the term 'developmental delay ' is being used, instead of the term' mental retardation'. The new term implies that the child can be taught and can learn according to his or her pace. 'Mental retardation' seems to block all hopes to be able to fulfil the potentials they have. It carries a societal stigma that implies the exclusion of the child from the rest of his or her peers. It implies that the child has a stable deficient condition and that there is nothing to improve upon.