What is a Low-Incidence Disabilities?

So you're wondering... 
What is a low-incidence disability?

Let's jump right in! 

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines low-incidence disabilities as Section 1462(c) a visual or hearing impairment, or simultaneous visual and hearing impairments; a significant cognitive impairment; or any impairment for which a small number of personnel with highly specialized skills and knowledge are needed for children with that impairment to receive early intervention services or a free appropriate public education.

Confused? You're not alone! I feel in order to properly define this, 

we need to understand what both high and low disabilities are.  

HIGH-INCIDENCE DISABILITIES

A high-incidence disability occurs more frequently in the general population than that of low-incidence. They typically:

• Occur in between 10-15% of people
• Have a moderate impact on areas like academic, behavioral, or social skills
• Can be supported with interventions
• Common disabilities are:
• Specific Learning Disabilities
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 
• Speech or Language Impairments
• Emotional or Behavioral Disorders
• Mild Intellectual Disabilities
• Some forms of Autism (seek guidance)

LOW-INCIDENCE DISABILITIES

A low-incidence disability occurs less often and is more uncommon.

• Occur in less than 1% of population
• More of a sever disability that can significantly affect an individual's life
• Will need a specialized team for intervention
• Common disabilities are:
• Deaf or Hard of Hearing/ Auditory Impairment 
• Autism 
• Deaf-Blindness
• CHARGE Syndrome
• Intellectual Disability
• Down Syndrome
• Multiple Disabilities
• Orthopedic Impairment
• Cerebral Palsy
• Other Health Impairment 
• Traumatic Brain Injury 
• Visual Impairment 

AS EDUCATORS AND CAREGIVERS, HOW DO WE SUPPORT LOW-INCIDENCE DISABILITIES? 

As parents and educators, it is our duty to help equip our children with skills, attitudes, and opportunities to take charge of their own future. 

The book Teaching Students with Severe Disabilities by David Westling, Erik Carter, M Da Fonte, and Jennifer Kurth brings forth important philosophies and practices educators can use to help support Low-Incidence disabilities. Some examples are: 

• Inclusion & Functional Instruction:
• Individuals should attend regular, age-appropriate schools and be able to have access to general education classrooms if possible. 
• We should be encouraging friendships and relationships with all students, with and without disabilities.
• Self-Determination: 
• Individuals should have the ability and opportunities to steer their lives in the direction that makes them have a satisfying life. 
• Supported Decision-Making: 
• Trusted individuals who step forward to advocate and help make informed decisions. 

Implementing these takes care, consistency and diligence. The term, "It takes a village", is no joke. Tune in next week as we discuss these collaborative partnerships with school personnel and families.