Jul 7, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed almost every
aspect of our lives. This includes how we work, socialize and
learn. In Episode 59 of Parenting Impossible, Host Annette Hines
and guest Dr. Ingrid Amorini-Klimek address what special needs
education could look like in the future.
Dr. Amorini-Klimek is a lifelong advocate for special needs
families, the sister of a special needs brother, and has extensive
experience as a special education teacher. For many years, she
worked as an administrator for a large educational system but said,
"Over time she became disappointed in the bureaucracy that failed
to listen to the needs of the community." This led to the creation
of her own special needs resource center, Our Special Village. She
is also the founder and president of the non-profit organization,
The Bocha Project, whose mission is to promote inclusive practices
around the world.
Annette and Dr. Ingrid begin the show with a discussion on how
the pandemic has added extra stress for families who have a loved
one with a disability. The doctor shares her brother’s personal
struggle with not wanting/understanding the importance of wearing a
face mask. She worries his refusal to cover his face in public
could result in a loss of privileges like traveling on a plane or
being allowed inside public establishments.
Next, the two special needs experts jump into how classes and
programs will need to change to accommodate social distancing rules
and safety procedures. They agree programs should not be structured
as a "one size fits all" method, and instead need to be tailored to
individuals. While some children have fallen behind during the
lockdown, Dr. Ingrid shares her personal experience watching others
thrive.
Finally, Annette and Dr. Ingrid jump into a conversation about
how the role of special needs parents will be different moving
forward. After spending months working one-on-one with their
children, parents have now become the experts. This shift will
create a new dynamic between families, teachers, and administrators
in the future. Annette believes the solution lies in everyone
coming together and evaluating individual needs. "It’s amazing what
people are doing by joining forces and coming together."
Annette Hines has been practicing in the areas of Special
Needs, Elder Law, and Estate Planning for more than 20 years. Ms.
Hines brings personal experience with special needs to her practice
and podcasts as the mother of two daughters, one of whom passed
away from Mitochondrial disease in November 2013. This deep,
personal understanding of special needs fuels her passion for
quality special needs planning and drives her dedication to help
others within the special needs community.