Family FAQ September 2003

September 2003

Q: There is no way that I can get through to my son's school staff that he wants to be in regular classes. He has mental health challenges. He's constantly being sent home because of behavioral issues. He can't seem to manage even in a special education classroom. He tells me that the other children tease and hit him first. I believe my son, but I am also sure that no one else does. Over the last couple of years, I have been called to his school so many times that I am on the verge of giving up. I don't know if I can hold onto my son.

You already know that your child is vulnerable. All children with mental health disabilities are likely to become targets of teasing, harassing, and bullying by their peers. Some even become bullies themselves as they attempt to protect themselves from the humiliation. I recommend you develop a strategic plan that allows you to ensure that the personnel in your son's school are educated. However, know from the outset that current research on youth with disabilities and the issue of teasing and bullying is almost non-existent. There are some opportunities for you. Please refer to the Senior Family Advisor's Resource List for September 2003. If you define these resources as educational opportunities with little or no cost to the school system, my hope is you will get a good response, especially as you speak with them about referencing the information to your son's situation.

Technical Assistance Partnership for Child and Family Mental Health

Family Involvement and Advocacy Frequently Asked Questions

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	September 2003 Q: There is no way that I can get through to my son's school staff that he wants to be in regular classes. He has mental health challenges. He's constantly being sent home because of behavioral issues. He can't seem to manage even in a special education classroom. He tells me that the other children tease and hit him first. I believe my son, but I am also sure that no one else does. Over the last couple of years, I have been called to his school so many times that I am on the verge of giving up. I don't know if I can hold onto my son. You already know that your child is vulnerable. All children with mental health disabilities are likely to become targets of teasing, harassing, and bullying by their peers. Some even become bullies themselves as they attempt to protect themselves from the humiliation. I recommend you develop a strategic plan that allows you to ensure that the personnel in your son's school are educated. However, know from the outset that current research on youth with disabilities and the issue of teasing and bullying is almost non-existent. There are some opportunities for you. Please refer to the Senior Family Advisor's Resource List for September 2003. If you define these resources as educational opportunities with little or no cost to the school system, my hope is you will get a good response, especially as you speak with them about referencing the information to your son's situation.