Aakaar Child Development Center
Blog
1.What is Shadow Teacher? Role and Benefits
Introduction
Every child has his or her own learning style. Some children may adapt to classroom environments readily, while others may require some extra attention from the teacher to bloom to their full potential. This applies especially to children with learning disabilities, behavioral difficulties, or developmental disorders like ADHD or autism. And this is just where a Shadow Teacher comes in. Not the most understood or most well-known concept, a shadow teacher can make an amazing impact on the education of a child in a concrete sense. This blog will talk about what shadow teachers are, their functions, and the advantages they provide to children and the entire classroom.
Who Is a Shadow Teacher?
A shadow teacher is an educational assistant who provides one-on-one support to a child in a normal classroom environment. Their main task is to ensure the child can follow the lesson, take part in the activities, and integrate socially with peers.
"Shadow" indicates the method of working silently alongside the child but guiding them without taking over the teacher's role. Shadow teachers are particularly important for students who have disruptive attention, social skills, or learning at the same speed as their peers.
What Does a Shadow Teacher Do?
A shadow teacher performs several key tasks, including:
Introduction
Every child has his or her own learning style. Some children may adapt to classroom environments readily, while others may require some extra attention from the teacher to bloom to their full potential. This applies especially to children with learning disabilities, behavioral difficulties, or developmental disorders like ADHD or autism. And this is just where a Shadow Teacher comes in. Not the most understood or most well-known concept, a shadow teacher can make an amazing impact on the education of a child in a concrete sense. This blog will talk about what shadow teachers are, their functions, and the advantages they provide to children and the entire classroom.
Who Is a Shadow Teacher?
A shadow teacher is an educational assistant who provides one-on-one support to a child in a normal classroom environment. Their main task is to ensure the child can follow the lesson, take part in the activities, and integrate socially with peers.
"Shadow" indicates the method of working silently alongside the child but guiding them without taking over the teacher's role. Shadow teachers are particularly important for students who have disruptive attention, social skills, or learning at the same speed as their peers.
What Does a Shadow Teacher Do?
A shadow teacher performs several key tasks, including:
- Supports the child academically, socially, and emotionally in class.
- Modifies or simplifies tasks given by the lead teacher.
- Helps the child stay focused and avoid distractions.
- Encourage involvement in group activities.
- Shares feedback with parents and therapists about the child's progress.
- Keeps an open line of communication with the class teacher to modify strategies.
Why Is a Shadow Teacher Important?
Shadow teachers are not solely helpers; they are mediators of inclusion. Various types of developmental challenges and learning disabilities make it extremely hard for these children to cope in normal classrooms. Thanks to shadow teachers, these children can remain within the mainstream school system while getting the necessary assistance.
- Reduced behavioral problems.
- Better learning outcomes.
- Enhanced communication and social skills.
- Greater self-assurance and independence over time.
A real-world case study from Aakaar Child Development shows how a child diagnosed with mild autism made remarkable progress in speech and peer interaction within six months of shadow teaching intervention.
The Long-Term Impact of a Shadow Teacher
A shadow teacher's influence often extends outside the classroom setting. Over time, the child becomes more independent and gradually requires less support. This helps the child to build self-confidence and integrate into society.
The shadow teaching arrangement can also benefit teachers by minimizing disruptions to their classes so that they can focus on the whole class without sidetracking necessary individual attention to children in need.
Why Choose Aakaar Child Development?
When it comes to inclusive education and child-centered therapy, Aakaar Child Development is a trusted name. Is your child lagging in school or showing other signs that they need some help? You could be just a shadow teacher away from unlocking your child's true potential! At Aakaar Child Development, they recognize that each child learns differently and should be helped individually.
With their qualified and caring shadow teachers, they can support your child in an individualized way that connects home and school. Their support has been drawn from our years of experience in children and child development, in addition to closely aligning with school curriculums, to help with both the academic and social transitions for your child!
Be it concentrating in class, taking directions from the teacher, or creating relationships with peers, Aakaar provides all of the structure and care to help them succeed.
Aakaar’s team is committed to nurturing every child’s potential. When it comes to shadow teacher support, they offer:
- Extensively trained and certified shadow teachers.
- Individual student education plans with school alignment.
- Continuing liaisons with school staff, therapists, and parents.
- Open progress tracking and reporting.
- Nurturing approach focusing on empathy, growth, and inclusion.
Kick-start your children's journey with the right guidance.
If you think your child would benefit from a shadow teacher, don’t delay. Early identification and support can change everything. At Aakaar Child Development, they have the experience and expertise to accompany you on this journey—step-by-step. They don’t just provide academic support—they increase children's capacity to grow, adapt, and thrive in the world.
2.IMPORTANCE OF PLAY THERAPY
What is Play Therapy?
It is difficult for most children below age 10-11 to sit still for sustained periods of time.Play therapy provides for children's need to be physically active. In play, children discharge energy, prepare for life’s duties , achieve difficult goals and relieve frustrations.
As children play, they are expressing the individuality of their personalities and drawing upon inner resources which can become incorporated into their personality.
Virginia M. Axline (1974) who developed the child-centered play therapy asserted that : “A play experience is therapeutic because it provides a secure relationship between the child and the adult , so that the child has the freedom and room to state himself in his own terms, exactly as he is at the movement in his own way and in his own time.” Play therapy helps to actualize the ultimate objectives of elementary schools facilitating the intellectual ,emotional , physical and social development of children from the learning opportunities and experiences offered in school.
Importance of Play therapy.
What is Play Therapy?
It is difficult for most children below age 10-11 to sit still for sustained periods of time.Play therapy provides for children's need to be physically active. In play, children discharge energy, prepare for life’s duties , achieve difficult goals and relieve frustrations.
As children play, they are expressing the individuality of their personalities and drawing upon inner resources which can become incorporated into their personality.
Virginia M. Axline (1974) who developed the child-centered play therapy asserted that : “A play experience is therapeutic because it provides a secure relationship between the child and the adult , so that the child has the freedom and room to state himself in his own terms, exactly as he is at the movement in his own way and in his own time.” Play therapy helps to actualize the ultimate objectives of elementary schools facilitating the intellectual ,emotional , physical and social development of children from the learning opportunities and experiences offered in school.
Importance of Play therapy.
- Develop a more positive self-concept.
- Assume greater self-responsibility.
Be more self-accepting.
Be more self-directing.
Be more self-reliant.
Experience a feeling of control.
Be sensitive to the process of coping.
Develop an internal source of elevation. Engage in self-determined decision making.
Be more self-directing.
Be more self-reliant.
Experience a feeling of control.
Be sensitive to the process of coping.
Develop an internal source of elevation. Engage in self-determined decision making.
3. Common Speech Problems in Children: Types, Symptoms, Causes and
Treatment
Children develop communication skills at their own pace. For some, speech and language come naturally; for others, forming sounds, words, and full sentences can be challenging. While some speech delays are a normal part of development, ongoing concerns may indicate deeper issues that require attention.
What Is Communication?
Communication is the flow of messages, and language is its marvellous vehicle. It can be verbal or non-verbal, encompassing:
Listening
Speaking
Gesturing
Reading
Writing
Understanding these components helps in identifying where a child may be struggling and how to support them effectively.
Speech vs. Language: Know the Difference
Language is a structured code made up of rules. It includes:
1. What words mean
2. How to make new words
3. How to put words together correctly
4. Using words appropriately depending on the situation
Speech is the oral expression of that language — it’s how we say the sounds and words.
Types of Language Difficulties:
Receptive Difficulty: When a child struggles to understand or process the language being used.
Expressive Difficulty: When a child cannot use the language rules properly to express thoughts, needs, or feelings.
What Is Abnormal Speech?
Speech is considered abnormal when it:
1. Deviates significantly from the speech of others
2. Calls unwanted attention to the speaker
3. Interferes with communication
4. Causes emotional distress to the speaker or listeners
Common traits of abnormal speech include being:
1. Conspicuous (noticeably different)
2. Unintelligible (hard to understand)
3. Unpleasant (harsh or odd-sounding)
How to Identify Speech Problems in Children
Early detection of speech problems can lead to better treatment outcomes. Look out for these common symptoms:
1. Trouble pronouncing words clearly
2. Speaking in short phrases or single-word responses
3. Frequent stuttering or repeating sounds
4. Difficulty following instructions
5. Speaking less than other children of the same age
6. Voice that sounds nasal, hoarse, or too soft
These signs may indicate that a child needs specialised support or speech therapy.
Types of Speech Disorders in Children
Speech disorders are typically categorised into three main areas:
1. Articulation Disorders
a.Difficulty forming certain sounds correctly.
b.Example: Saying “fumb” instead of “thumb”.
2. The child’s voice may sound weak, nasal, or unusual due to misuse or underlying physical issues.
a.Fluency Disorders
3. Problems like stuttering, where the child repeats sound or has long pauses while speaking.
a.Voice Disorders
Understanding the Causes of Speech Problems
Speech issues in children can result from a wide range of causes:
1. Hearing impairments.
2. Neurological conditions (e.g., autism, cerebral palsy)
3. Developmental delays
4. Physical issues like tongue-tie or cleft palate
5. Environmental factors or lack of language stimulation
Understanding these causes is crucial for providing the right intervention.
Normal Development of Speech and Language
Every child is unique and develops at their own pace. However, most children meet speech and language milestones within a general age range.Not hitting one milestone immediately doesn’t always indicate a disorder — but persistent delays should be evaluated by a professional.
Treatment Options for Speech Problems
Early intervention is key. The most effective approach involves:
1. Speech therapy guided by a professional
2. Speech therapy exercises, such as:
Repeating simple words
Practicing breathing and pacing
Reading aloud
Using mirrors to watch mouth movements
These exercises can be engaging and fun, which helps boost children’s confidence and motivation.
The Role of Parents in Therapy
Parents are essential partners in helping their child overcome speech difficulties:
- Practice therapy exercises at home
- Be patient and supportive
- Encourage the child’s attempts and celebrate progress
Why Choose Aakaar Child Development Center?
If your child is showing signs of speech difficulties, Aakaar Child Development is one of the most trusted and child-focused therapy centers available.
Aakaar Offers:
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Sensory integration therapy
- Behavioral therapy
Each child receives a personalised therapy plan based on their unique needs. Therapists involve parents actively, making it easier to continue the progress at home. The center’s warm and professional environment helps children feel safe and supported.
Conclusion
Speech is a vital part of how children learn, socialise, and express themselves. While some delays are natural, persistent issues should not be overlooked. With early intervention, professional guidance, and parental support, children can overcome speech challenges and grow into confident communicators.
If you’re concerned about your child’s speech development, don’t wait — visit Aakaar Child Development and give your child the best chance to thrive.
International Day of People with Disability on December 3 each year is an international observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992. The day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
The aim of Disability Day is to encourage a better understanding of people affected by a disability, together with helping to make people more aware of the rights, dignity and welfare of disabled people, as well as raise awareness about the benefits of integrating disabled persons into every aspect of life, from economic, to political, to social and cultural. Disability Day is not concerned exclusively with either mental or physical disabilities, but rather encompasses all known disabilities, from Autism to Down syndrome to Multiple Sclerosis.
One such movement is made by Aakaar child development center to increase Awareness about Autism so that early intervention can be promoted. The current video developed by the team of Aakaar professionals for every autistic parent.
Video Contents for Red Flags:
The following red flags may indicate a child is at risk for autism spectrum disorder, and is in need of an immediate evaluation.
In clinical terms, there are a few “absolute indicators,” often referred to as “red flags,” which indicate a child should be evaluated. For a parent, these are the “red flags” your child should be screened to ensure that s/he is on the right developmental path.
Red Flags of Autism Spectrum Disorder:
If your child shows two or more of these signs, please ask your pediatric healthcare provider for an immediate evaluation.
The aim of Disability Day is to encourage a better understanding of people affected by a disability, together with helping to make people more aware of the rights, dignity and welfare of disabled people, as well as raise awareness about the benefits of integrating disabled persons into every aspect of life, from economic, to political, to social and cultural. Disability Day is not concerned exclusively with either mental or physical disabilities, but rather encompasses all known disabilities, from Autism to Down syndrome to Multiple Sclerosis.
One such movement is made by Aakaar child development center to increase Awareness about Autism so that early intervention can be promoted. The current video developed by the team of Aakaar professionals for every autistic parent.
Video Contents for Red Flags:
The following red flags may indicate a child is at risk for autism spectrum disorder, and is in need of an immediate evaluation.
In clinical terms, there are a few “absolute indicators,” often referred to as “red flags,” which indicate a child should be evaluated. For a parent, these are the “red flags” your child should be screened to ensure that s/he is on the right developmental path.
Red Flags of Autism Spectrum Disorder:
If your child shows two or more of these signs, please ask your pediatric healthcare provider for an immediate evaluation.
Impairment in Social Interaction:
- Lack of appropriate eye gaze
- Lack of warm, joyful expressions
- Lack of sharing interest or enjoyment
- Lack of response to name
Impairment in Communication:
- Lack of showing gestures
- Lack of coordination of nonverbal communication
- Unusual prosody (little variation in pitch, odd intonation, irregular rhythm, unusual voice quality)
Repetitive Behaviors & Restricted Interests:
- Repetitive movements with objects
- Repetitive movements or posturing of body, arms, hands, or fingers
HELPING HAND FOR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION
Children from poor families are the unfortunate inheritors of poverty – in India, every eighth urban child in the 0-6 years age group stays in slums, as per a report published by the Indian government in 2011. YIN Members which means young inspirators network which is initiative of sakal media group is critical to help these children begin their climb out of poverty, and yet it receives scant attention in national policies such as the Right to Education Act.
YIN Members have taken initiative to spread happiness on childrens day. YIN Members location for event is slum area behind panvel railway station. Where one person runs balwadi in a very small and conjested room to teach 50 students.
The main aim of the YIN Members is to facilitate early childhood growth and development by providing an encouraging and enjoyable learning environment for the children through various activities. These include distribute some basic study material, storytelling, play acting, puzzles, drawing, games etc.
YIN Members have taken initiative to spread happiness on childrens day. YIN Members location for event is slum area behind panvel railway station. Where one person runs balwadi in a very small and conjested room to teach 50 students.
The main aim of the YIN Members is to facilitate early childhood growth and development by providing an encouraging and enjoyable learning environment for the children through various activities. These include distribute some basic study material, storytelling, play acting, puzzles, drawing, games etc.
It is story of helping others without thinking of herself. An old lady helps others in their time of need and in return is rewarded with kindness and friendship.
How can Drama Therapy help us?
How can Drama Therapy help us?
- It explores unhealthy personal patterns of behaviour and interpersonal interaction
- It encourages self-awareness, exploration and reflection on feelings and relationships
- It provides opportunities for clients to learn new skills
- It initiates spontaneous exploration of personal issues
- It enables clients to experiment with new ways of thinking and behaving
- It uses appropriate equipment, materials and therapeutic ‘props’, such as puppets and other objects
- It offers non-verbal method of working
- It makes use of all the senses
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