engleski

IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORT IN TRANSITION PERIODS DURING EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES: THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Transition periods during school years are one of the most important life experiences for students with disabilities for the future course of their lives. Based on this fact, the support provided in the transition period from early education (preschool) to primary school, from classroom to subject teaching, from primary to secondary school (and onwards) has an extremely important role in creating a positive atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion, academic achievement, social interactions, support network and personal growth as well aschild development. For children with disabilities, the specifics of their functioning and the need for adaptations and ensuring accessibility in the educational environment make quality and systematic support even more important for a successful transition. The aim of this paper is to present a model of support for children with disabilities in the transition period. The model mentioned above represents a personally oriented support planning and is interested in the child's strengths and needs for support and adjustments. It is also concerned with social acceptance and inclusion of children with disabilities. Circles of Friends is a modern support model that aims to involve peers in a network of support and friendships. With an overview of important steps and requirements for the implementation of the Circle of Friends, as one of the models of support in the transition periods during education for children with disabilities, this paper offers suggestions for a successful transition period. The importance of documentation in the transition process, important stakeholders and their roles, the stages of transition planning, systematic monitoring and evaluation of the inclusion process and the child’s progress, and development of further goals and activities in accordance with the concept of educational inclusion are emphasized.

Transition period, children with disabilities, support, Circle of Friends

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