According to United Press International, 14% of American children are considered to have special needs. Ranging from children with autism to those with Down syndrome, these children, like all children, have a right to and a need for high quality education. That’s why organizations and schools specializing in teaching special needs students are so important.

Unfortunately, finding a special education program that fits your children’s needs can be extremely difficult. How can you tell a program that will benefit your children from one that will simply drain your bank account? How do you know that your children will be better for their time spent in schools for students with learning disabilities? Well, you can start by following these simple tips for finding a special education program.

Three Things to Consider when Choosing a Special Education Program

1. Consider All the Different Types of Programs

As About.com writes, there are several different types of special education programs which you’ll need to fully consider before making a decision. Inclusion classes, for example, will place your child within the general student body, along with a special education aide who will help your child with any extra problems. Self-contained programs, on the other hand, are classes built specifically for special needs children. Consult your doctor and consider your child’s situation when choosing the best fit.

2. Public or Private Special Needs Schools

Deciding between public and private institutions for children with special needs will determine both the quality of education your children receive and your financial situation for years to come, as Special Education Degrees points out. If you find that a private school is the best fit for your child, you can look into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for assistance with your tuition.

3. Talk to the Teachers Who will Have the Most Contact with Your Children

While finding the right program and choosing a school that meets your budgetary concerns is undoubtedly important, nothing is more crucial to the efficacy of special education programs than their teachers. As About Kids Health so smartly suggests, you need to talk to the teachers who will be spending five days a week with your children. Do they seem passionate about teaching? What are their core beliefs? These things should absolutely color your decision.

Parents, do you have any extra tips for others looking for the best programs for their children? Please let us know in the comment section below! Find out more about this topic here.