Teaching+Reading+to+Learns+with+Down+Syndrome

Reading is such an important skill in life and just because a child has Down Syndrome does not mean that they cannot read. It is known that children with Down Syndrome are strong visual learners. "Research shows that the brains of all children prefer to learn quickly, and children with ASD or Down syndrome are no exception ([])." 'Fast Flash' is a teaching strategy used to help students with Down Syndrome learn to read. The following steps below explain how the 'Fast Flash' strategy works:

"1. Group flash cards in packs of 5; this is the most comfortable number to optimize working memory for children with Down syndrome, Autism, and ASD. 2. Make sure the words are large (use a broad marker and unlined index cards, either 4x6 or 5x8). If you’re creating these cards on computer, use 100 pt. type or larger. 3. Sit across from the child, not side-by-side; you want to put the cards directly in the child’s alert line of vision. 4. Flash the cards quickly, about one per second, calling out the words. 5. Repeat, showing the cards 3 or 4 times. 6. If you’re teaching additional words, introduce the next set of 5, and so on, as long as you’ve still got the child’s interest. 7. Keep the cards fresh; replace learned words with new ones. 8. Include lots of high interest words (Wiggles, Sponge Bob, or whatever fires your child’s interest) along with high-frequency words that //have// to be learned. If you’re teaching these words in conjunction with a favorite book, which I hope is the case, then flash the words once more after reading the book. This “Sandwich Method” of teaching reading [//words—book—words//] is very effective!" ( [])"

I strongly believe that this teaching strategy is effective for any student learning to read and especially students that are Down Syndrome. Children with Down Syndrome are stimulated by visual prompts therefore it is important as educators that we use their strenghts to their advantage and encourage visual learning. 'Flash Fast' is a very effective teaching strategy for children with Down Syndrome because it is a visual strategy to improve reading levels. I believe 'Fast Flash' is a useful strategy for teachers in early education teaching children to read and especially for children with Down Syndrome. It is important that we encourage reading and a posiitve experience with reading at a young age as it is an important life skills and it vital skill in education.

Reference:

Special Reads for Special Needs. Retrieved June 25, 2011, from Special Reads: []