At Live Joyfully Education, we’re on a mission to change the language surrounding classrooms designed for children with disabilities. Terms like "self-contained classrooms" sound more like confinement than education. And while “inclusive classrooms” might sound ideal, it’s not always the reality. Naming a classroom after a diagnosis, like "Autism classrooms," excludes children with other disabilities and reduces them to defined by their conditions. It’s time for a shift in how we talk about these spaces, and we believe the term "Adaptive Classrooms" is the way forward.
What do we do in life when there’s a challenge? We adapt. Disabilities introduce different challenges for students, so what do schools do for students? They adapt.
Just as we use adaptive devices when needed, classrooms should be flexible and responsive, meeting each child’s needs regardless of diagnosis. “Adaptive” isn’t just a word—it’s a mindset that empowers and celebrates each student’s journey.
My son, who’s a senior in high school, shared with me that he thinks it’s offensive how some kids talk about classes or schools for students like his sister, Josie. The stigma isn’t just in the way people think—it’s in the language we use. We can eliminate this stigma by making our language clear, respectful, and consistent. The problem is, people often don’t know what to say. Is it “special needs classrooms”? “Smaller classes”? When our Live Joyfully Education team discussed this, “Adaptive Classrooms” just clicked. It felt right—it felt respectful.
By embracing the term “Adaptive Classrooms,” we can shift the narrative. We can foster an environment where the focus is on adapting to support each child, celebrating their abilities, and creating a positive, inclusive learning space. It’s time we change the language to reflect the dignity, potential, and adaptability of all students.
Join us in spreading this change. Let’s redefine how we talk about education for children with disabilities and make “Adaptive Classrooms” the new standard.
We'd love to hear your thoughts. Please contact us and let us know what you think.
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