Developmental disability can involve an intellectual disability. Children with an intellectual disability have IQs below 75. This impacts on the speed at which knowledge is acquired. It also reduces a child's ability to reason, plan or understand abstract thought. The conditions most commonly associated with intellectual disability are Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, autism and fragile X. Developmental disability is an umbrella term. It includes the following additional conditions: cerebral palsy, epilepsy, developmental delay and autism.
Before considering a residential placement, parents should ensure their child's problems have been thoroughly assessed. Doing so will help determine the most appropriate type of school and program. Assessment should also result in an Individual Education Plan. An IEP might state that boarding school is a more appropriate educative option than public school. Having a school and an education plan tailored to his specific learning needs helps every child achieve his potential.
Residential schools usually offer high levels of support and personalized attention within small classes. There will usually be a better teacher-to-pupil ratio than in the public schools. A residential school for disabled children should provide therapeutic programs. These can include physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. In addition to academic or vocational education, the program will address life skills, personal care, communication and social interaction.
Boarding schools for disabled children might feature small residential cottages within a campus. Each cottage will form a therapeutic "family." Cottages should be organized to ensure children are homed with children of similar age and needs, with whom they will get along. Residential schools usually specialize in particular types of disability. There are schools specializing in cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. Many schools follow a particular educational model. For example, Waldorf schools focus on experiential and pictorial learning with music, art, drama and movement integrated into every class.
Residential schools should provide after-school activities and field trips. Children need opportunities to learn and socialize outside the residential facility. This is particularly important when the goal of residential education is to equip them for independent living. Opportunities for sports, art, music and hippotherapy (horse riding) are beneficial. Visits with family members should be encouraged. To aid smooth transition to independent living, opportunities for work placements or community service are valuable features.
Because provision is therapeutic as well as educational, fees can be high. However, the medical-related portion of a child's care should be eligible for payment by Medicaid or private insurance. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, every child is entitled to free education suited to his needs. If there is a medical condition that makes boarding school the best place to deliver that, then a school district must provide financing. School fees paid by parents might be tax-deductible where doctors make the referral.