1. Strategies for Leaders when Working with Scouts with Disabilities
Cari Parr
Special Education Teacher/Pick Up The Pieces TN
Charter Organization Representative Pack 197
Parent Volunteer Troop 197

2. Introduction
Thank you for having me! More students are being diagnosed with disabilities than ever before and Scouting is a great way for them to learn new skills.
I have almost 21 years experience teaching students with disabilities (ages preschool-16, all disabilities). I’ve also started my own website, Pick Up The Pieces TN.
I have been in Scouting as a parent for almost 10 years. I have boys 14 and 10 that have been in Scouting since Tigers. My husband, Jay was their den leaders and is the Charter Org Rep for Troop 197.
I have started doing Disability Awareness Presentations to help be an ”interpreter”or advocate of people with disabilities for the community.

3. Quick Overview: Invisible vs. Visible Disabilties
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Hearing Impairment
Learning Disabilities
Orthopedic Impairment
Vision Impairment
Intellectual Disabilities
ADHD
Behavior disorders/Mental Health Conditions
Traumatic Brain Injury

4. Some Common Invisible Disabilities
Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD
Behavior Disorders/Mental Health Conditions
Learning Disabilities
Intellectual Disabilities

5. Common Strategies that are effective with Invisible Disabilities
Proximity, Proximity, Proximity
Say the Scout’s name and give directions in short, distinct steps
Be literal
Consider their strengths
Remind them of rules/boundaries and natural payoffs
When possible write directions down
Show examples of expectations first
Buddy system
Consult with Parents

6. Things to consider with Visible Disabilities
Communication
Accessibility
Modifying of activities to meet their needs
Buddy System
Consider their strengths
Consult with Parents

7. Questions or Specific Issues?
My contact info:
Cari Parr
(615)
Available for Disabilities Awareness Presentations