Teachers will have the opportunity to see the student in a home setting, and parents can talk about goals, concerns, hopes and dreams for their child. Make one of those goals facilitating friendships. Parents can volunteer in their child's class. The teacher will appreciate help during holiday parties, field trips and in the classroomn and the parent can get to know some of the other students in the class. If your child never gets invited to slumber parties because of his or her disability, have one at your house for a few special friends.
Parents can have lunch with their child in the school lunchroom.
Lunch time can become a golden opportunity to strike up a conversation with other students to facilitate friendships. Teachers can ask their regular education students if they would like to be a buddy to a special child at lunch. Have a sign-up sheet ready and ask for volunteers. Lunch time is a wonderful time for social interaction that could include buddy time on the playground after lunch. Special education teachers can start a program for student volunteers to come into their classroom each day.