Issue 10

Hello, Beyond the Label Family! 👋

We're back with another exciting edition of the Beyond the Label Newsletter, and you won't want to miss it! 🌈

Assessing the Pandemic's Impact on Children with Special Needs

Researchers at the University of Liverpool are actively seeking the public's help in assessing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). They have launched an online survey asking parents, caregivers, and teachers to share insights into how the disruption of the last two years has impacted learning, development, and access to critical services for SEND children.

The survey poses questions across many facets of life for SEND children - asking how the pandemic may have affected their schooling, social interactions, care and support services, and transitions between learning environments. Researchers are interested in both the positive and negative impacts that respondents have witnessed through the extended lockdowns, isolation, remote learning periods, and return-to-school protocols.

The information provided through the survey will contribute key evidence that the research team will analyze. Their goal is to determine clear recommendations on how best to support children with special needs and disabilities moving forward. This includes tailoring educational approaches, implementing recovery policies locally and nationally, and determining what added or adapted services could help make up for any pandemic-related setbacks among this important group of students.

Simon Hunter, a senior lecturer involved with the study, said "The pandemic has been really challenging for lots of children, but especially those with additional learning needs. We think it’s essential their experiences are considered by decision-makers planning support services as restrictions continue to be eased."

The Liverpool team urges parents, teachers, caregivers and support staff of SEND children and youth to complete the online questionnaire. It takes approximately 15 minutes and all responses will remain completely confidential. The final date to contribute insights through the survey is September 30, 2021. By sharing their observations, respondents have an opportunity to inform the policies and resources made available to aid SEND students in overcoming pandemic-related obstacles.

Becoming a teacher in Finland carries huge prestige, and trust is placed in teachers to shape curriculum tailored for their students. Finnish schools also promote teacher collaboration where educators work in teams to develop and improve instruction.

The actual school environment also plays a major role. There is an emphasis on communication and collaboration - not just between teachers but also encouraging students to interact and work together regularly as part of the learning process. Schools are also well-resourced with plenty of counselors, support services, and even healthcare resources. The physical structures of schools are designed to feel like welcoming spaces centered around community.

Several national policies foster student success as well. Free school meals are provided for all children to facilitate their learning by ensuring no student is distracted by hunger. Pre-school education and special needs services are guaranteed from a very early age - setting students up for achievement once they embark on their academic journey.

Perhaps most notably, Finland minimizes elements like excessive testing, homework, and competition between students or schools that can cause unhealthy stress. The value is placed on equity and cooperation. Although the school day is shorter and homework lighter than in many other nations, the quality and outcomes remain very high.

As a result of these nurturing and student-centered practices, Finland consistently ranks first or near the top on international assessments in math, science, and reading. The variation between schools on test scores is smaller than in most countries - demonstrating that success if shared across all Finnish schools, is not concentrated in pockets.

It seems that respecting teachers and learning, focusing on holistic development, and promoting cooperation over cut-throat competition could be a model more nations should look to in striving for education excellence. Finland provides an example of how nourishing students' growth yields tremendous achievement.

Join the Beyond the Label movement and make a difference! Together, we can create a world that celebrates unique abilities and embraces diversity. 🌍

Most significantly, Sense found that despite the grants being modest in size, over 90% of recipients said it reduced financial worries. Over 75% noted improved mental health and reduced loneliness. This suggests that even small pools of funding to help cover essential costs can dramatically assist disabled groups - who are disproportionately impacted by rising inflation.

While concluding that the Cost of Living grants positively benefited recipients, Sense also had sharp criticism for government policy. They are urging expanded eligibility criteria for support schemes, a raise in benefits above inflation, and a realignment of policy to make society more inclusive.

Sense's CEO said, "We welcome the government's cost of living payments but know that, for many disabled people and families, there are still gaps that urgently need addressing." Judging by recipient testimonies, the Cost of Living grants filled essential gaps - but likely still only touched the surface of need.

Ready to embark on this exciting journey with us? Explore our latest collection, and let's make a difference, one book at a time. 📖

Thank you for being a part of Beyond the Label! 🌟

Warm regards, Beyond the Label Team 📚🌟

PS: Stay tuned for more inspiring stories, updates, and resources in our next newsletter! 📬🎉