What support should be included in a student's IEP to facilitate safety and participation in an art class?

Including a para-educator to assist during art class in a student's IEP is a robust strategy to ensure both safety and active participation. Para-educators can provide individualized support tailored to the student's specific needs, helping them navigate the classroom environment and the art-related activities. This additional support can help the student engage more effectively with the materials, understand the instructions better, and interact appropriately with peers.

The presence of a para-educator allows for immediate assistance with tasks that may be challenging for the student and provides a layer of supervision that enhances safety, especially in an environment that may include tools and substances not typically encountered in other classes. Their role can also facilitate social interactions, ensuring that the student feels included and supported while participating alongside classmates. This comprehensive approach underscores the importance of tailored assistance in promoting successful learning experiences for students with special needs.