• Intellectual Disability (ID) combined with physical impairments, such as orthopedic impairments or blindness

• Communication difficulties, such as limited verbal ability

• Medical conditions, such as cerebral palsy or epilepsy, requiring specialized care

• Mobility challenges due to neurological or musculoskeletal disorders

• Behavioral and emotional difficulties that may result from frustration or communication barriers

Each student’s challenges are different so, making individualized education plans (IEPs) are crucial.

Students may experience:

• Difficulties with communication and language

• Challenges with daily living activities (e.g., dressing, eating, bathing)

• Learning and cognitive impairments

• Physical limitations

• Sensory impairments

• Increased risk for health problems and medical complications

Students with multiple disabilities are identified through evaluations that may include:

• Medical reports from doctors

• Cognitive and psychological assessments (e.g., IQ tests, behavior evaluations)

• Speech and language assessments

• Physical and occupational therapy evaluations

• Parental and teacher observations

Service Delivery

• Most students with multiple disabilities receive education in special education settings tailored to their needs.

• Some students participate in inclusive classrooms with support from special education teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals.

• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) determine placement, goals, and accommodations.

• Use of visual schedules and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices

• Simplified or modified curriculum with hands-on, multisensory activities

• Assistive technology (e.g., text-to-speech, speech-generating devices)

• One-on-one support from a paraprofessional or teacher’s aide

• Social stories and role-playing to teach interactions

• Peer buddy programs to foster relationships with neurotypical peers

• Structured routines and predictable environments to reduce anxiety

• Sensory breaks and accommodations for students with sensory processing challenges

https://exceptionalchildren.org

• Provides research-based teaching strategies, advocacy resources, and professional development for educators working with students with disabilities.

State (Example: North Carolina): Exceptional Children's Division

https://ec.ncpublicschools.gov

• Offers guidance on state policies, teacher training, and classroom resources for special education.

Local: School District Special Education Department

• Local school districts often have dedicated special education coordinators and resources for teachers. Teachers can contact their district’s Exceptional Children’s Services for training and support.

https://www.parentcenterhub.org

• A national resource providing parents with educational rights, advocacy strategies, and support networks for children with disabilities.

State (Example: Texas): Texas Parent to Parent

https://www.txp2p.org

• A nonprofit organization offering mentorship, special education resources, and community support for parents raising children with disabilities.

Local: Local Parent Support Groups / Advocacy Organizations

• Many communities have parent-led support groups through organizations like The Arc or United Cerebral Palsy. Parents can check with local schools or hospitals for recommendations.

Heward, W. L., Alber-Morgan, S. R., & Konrad, M. (2022). Exceptional children: An introduction to special education(12th ed.). Pearson.

National Center on Educational Outcomes. (2020). Students with significant cognitive disabilities and their access to grade-level academic content. University of Minnesota.

Smith, D. D., & Tyler, N. C. (2022). Introduction to special education: Making a difference (9th ed.). Pearson.