What Are Related Services in Special Education? Explained

Special education services are designed to meet the needs of students with disabilities. These services offer personalized support to help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. One important aspect of special education is related services. But what exactly are related services, and how do they benefit students with disabilities? In this article, we will explore what related services in special education are, the various types available, and how they enhance the learning experience for students with diverse needs.

Contents

In the context of special education, related services refer to additional services provided to students with disabilities to help them benefit from their individualized education program (IEP). These services are not educational in the traditional sense but play a vital role in ensuring that students can participate fully in their academic experience.

According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), related services are necessary to help a student access and benefit from special education. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, enabling them to participate in academic activities and develop essential skills for life after school.

Support Academic Progress: Related services help students access and engage with the general education curriculum by addressing their individual needs.
Assist with Social and Emotional Development: They help students improve their communication skills, manage emotions, and interact with peers.
Promote Physical and Cognitive Functioning: Some related services focus on enhancing a student’s motor skills or cognitive abilities, supporting their overall learning.

There are a variety of related services in special education, each addressing different needs. These services are provided in conjunction with direct educational instruction and are essential for the success of students with disabilities. Below are some of the most common types of related services:

1. Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)

Speech-language therapy services help students with speech, language, and communication issues. A licensed speech-language pathologist provides these services and focus on improving skills such as:

Articulation
Receptive and expressive language
Voice and fluency
Social communication

Speech therapy can be vital for students with speech delays, language disorders, or difficulties understanding or expressing language.

2. Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapy services focus on helping students develop the fine motor skills needed for daily activities, including writing, dressing, and feeding. Occupational therapists help students with disabilities perform tasks that are essential for independent functioning both in school and at home. OT services may include:

Handwriting skills
Sensory integration
Coordination and motor planning
Self-care skills

3. Physical Therapy (PT)

Physical therapy addresses the physical needs of students with mobility or motor skills challenges. Physical therapists work with students to improve their gross motor skills and help them move and participate more fully in school activities. Services can include:

Strengthening exercises
Balance and coordination training
Mobility aids (such as wheelchairs or braces)
Posture and body awareness

4. Counseling Services

Counseling services are designed to support students emotionally and socially. A school counselor or licensed therapist helps students work through personal challenges such as anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, or difficulties with peer relationships. Counseling services can help students develop:

Coping skills
Self-esteem
Social interaction and conflict resolution skills

Counseling services often include individual sessions, group therapy, or family counseling.

School social workers help students manage personal, family, and social issues that may affect their ability to succeed in school. Social work services can include:

Crisis intervention
Family support
Helping students adjust to school or home life changes
Assisting with behavior management plans

School social workers act as a bridge between home, school, and community resources to ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive.

6. Transportation Services

Some students with disabilities may require specialized transportation to attend school. If a student’s disability prevents them from using regular school transportation, the school district may provide adapted transportation services, such as:

Wheelchair-accessible buses
Escort services
Special transportation plans for medical appointments or therapies

7. Assistive Technology Services

Assistive technology services involve providing specialized equipment or devices that help students with disabilities access their education. This may include:

Communication devices
Computer software that assists with reading or writing
Hearing aids or devices for students with hearing impairments

These services ensure that students with physical, cognitive, or sensory impairments can effectively participate in classroom activities and complete assignments.

The related services a student receives are determined by the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, which includes the student’s parents, teachers, special education professionals, and other service providers. The IEP team evaluates the student’s unique needs and decides which services are necessary for the student to succeed in school.

Each student’s IEP is customized to address their specific needs, so the related services provided will vary. The IEP will include goals and objectives related to each service, and the team will review progress regularly to ensure that the services are meeting the student’s needs.

Related services are essential for helping students with disabilities thrive in an academic environment. Without these services, students may struggle to keep up with their peers or may be unable to participate in classroom activities fully. Here are some reasons why related services are essential:

Fostering Inclusion: Related services ensure that students with disabilities have access to the same opportunities as their peers, promoting inclusivity and equality.
Supporting Academic Success: These services provide the support needed for students to meet their academic goals and achieve success in school.
Building Life Skills: Related services help students develop the skills they need to live independently, interact with others, and navigate the world around them.

Conclusion

Related services in special education play a crucial role in ensuring that students with disabilities can participate fully in their educational experience. From speech and occupational therapy to counseling and assistive technology, these services provide the support necessary for students to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. By working with an IEP team, families and educators can ensure that students with disabilities receive the individualized support they need to reach their full potential.

FAQs

Special education refers to the direct instruction and support that students with disabilities receive in the classroom. Related services are additional services, such as therapy or counseling, that help students access and benefit from their education.

The IEP team, which includes the student’s parents, teachers, and other professionals, determines which related services are necessary for the student’s success.

Yes, related services are typically provided at no cost to families, as they are part of the services required under the student’s IEP.

The frequency and duration of related services are determined by the IEP team, based on the student’s needs. Services can be provided weekly, bi-weekly, or as needed.

Yes, related services can be adjusted if the IEP team determines that a student’s needs have changed. IEPs are reviewed regularly to ensure the services continue to meet the student’s needs.

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