Read these scenarios. Describe the child’s strengths and needs. Then describe how you might use that information to support the child’s learning.

Brittany is a lively 7-year-old. She has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. Her speech is hard to understand, but she is always smiling and laughing. She loves being around other children and wants to do everything her friends do. Sometimes this is difficult because she has a hard time grasping objects with her hands and she needs help moving her wheelchair. She gets frustrated and cries when she has a hard time physically keeping up with the other children.

1. Describe Brittany's strengths:
    
2. What are Brittany's needs in your program?
    
3. List learning experiences or supports that you might plan for Brittany:
    

Jamal has Asperger Syndrome. He is quiet and studious. He instantly goes to the homework table when he arrives at your program. He sits quietly and does homework until his parents pick him up. If he finishes early, he finds a book to read and sits on the couch. He seems nervous around other children and prefers talking to the staff member at the homework table.

4. Describe Jamal's strengths:
    
5. What are Jamal's needs in your program?
    
6. List learning experiences or supports that you might plan for Jamal:
    

Adrien is a typically developing 12-year-old who excels in school. She often completes her homework assignments with ease and remarks “school is so easy.” She can be a distraction to her peers as she is talkative and eager to socialize when she finishes her work. She does not have many friends in the program but tries to fit in with others, often unsuccessfully.

7. Describe Adrien's strengths:
    
8. What are Adrien's needs in your program?
    
9. List learning experiences or supports that you might plan for Adrien: