The children in her class are 9 to 13 years old, with a variety of disabilities. One of the most important ways a teacher can help them get the most out of school, she says, is to give love and security and provide a sense of accomplishment through assigned projects. She enjoys watching them learn. But, like all kids, they want to have fun, too. The family can be the biggest source of encouragement for a student, but only if they understand the strengths and weaknesses of the child.
Family members can learn much by attending scheduled school meetings with the staff.
Harrington says that one of the biggest barriers teachers face at school is understanding each child's disease. Parents can pass information learned from doctors or clinicians along to the teachers. MDA also shares information about the latest research findings by scientists seeking the causes of, and treatments and cures for, the 40 neuromuscular disorders in the Association' s program. MDA provides diagnostic services and therapeutic and rehabilitative follow-up care, support groups, summer camps and also assists with the purchase and repair of wheelchairs. Numerous educational materials and resources are available through local MDA offices nationwide or from MDA National Headquarters.