Sanctity for Special Souls by Mary Lou Rosien

Removing Distractions

Picture of Mary Lou Rosien

With seven kids at home it can be difficult for me to concentrate on anything for longer than a few moments! Imagine then, what it is like for a child who suffers with attention problems, learning problems or other neurological issues, to pay attention in Faith Formation Class. One of the ways to make our classrooms a place where learning can happen is to remove the extra distractions from the environment.

  1. Do an inventory of your classroom space. Are there bright lights? A lot of pictures on the walls? Does a noisy heater go off periodically?
  2. Once the distractions are identified, make a list of which things could be changed. Can you use task lighting instead of overhead fluorescent lighting? Can you keep the door closed to minimize hallway noise?
  3. Opt for one main display rather than a lot of little ones. Having one focal point is easier for kids with disabilities to look at. Be sensitive to very bright colors that are scattered all over the room.
  4. If possible, limit class size or add additional aids to your class. In our classes, we often use teenagers to help out. If there is a child in your class that is identified with special needs, consider having a one-on-one helper for that child.
  5. Don't ask that child's parents to be your classroom helper unless they offer. Most parents of kids with disabilities would welcome a little time to themselves. Having their kids safely in class for an hour may give them the time they need to pray, run errands, or just recharge their personal batteries.
  6. Have fun. Kids with special needs often see the world in a unique way. They may open your eyes to a new view of your Catholic world.

[© Mary Lou Rosien 2008]

Bio

Mary Lou Rosien is a Catholic wife, mother to seven and has been a Catechist off and on for 30 years. She is trained as a social worker and parent/family coach. She is also a literacy volunteer in the public school system.

Several of her own children have disabilities including Asperger's (a mild form of autism), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Learning Disorders, ADHD and Anxiety Issues.

Her 16 year-old daughter had surgery two years ago for a Chiari I malformation of the brain and has recovered beautifully!

She is a columnist for Our Sunday Visitor Online and is the author of, "Managing Stress with the Help of Your Catholic Faith" (OSV Publishing).