Official State of Rhode Island website

  • Change the visual color theme between light or dark modes
  • Adjust the font size from the system default to a larger size
  • Adjust the space between lines of text from the system default to a larger size
  • Adjust the space between words from the system default to a larger size
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs

Educational Supports for Children

Educational support for children are the tools, services, and strategies that can help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. There are different types of supports, including 

  • Instructional supports 
    • Different methods of instruction tailored to a child’s learning style 
    • Use of visual aids, technology, and hands-on activities 
  • Specialized services 
  • Academic interventions 
    • Tutoring, small-group instruction, and after-school programs 
    • Access to learning resources like textbooks, digital tools, and adaptive software 
  • Social-Emotional supports 
    • Programs that build resilience, self-regulation, and positive relationships 
    • School counselors and peer support groups 
  • Family and community engagement 
    • Parent workshops, communication tools, and partnerships with community organizations 

Benefits of Educational Supports 

  • Promote equity: Supports ensures that all children, regardless of ability or background, have access to learning opportunities. 
  • Address diverse needs: Every child learns differently; support helps meet individual academic and emotional needs. 
  • Improve outcomes: Students receiving appropriate support are more likely to succeed academically and socially. 
  • Prevent learning gaps: Early interventions can reduce disparities and prevent long-term challenges. 
  • Foster inclusion: Supports create an environment where children with disabilities or learning differences can thrive alongside other children.