Mentally retarded children & their educaton

Mental retardation has been known for centuries and different terms have been used to explain it. Encyclopedia Britannica defines mental deficiency as “A state of subnormal evaluation of the human organism in consequence of which the individual affected is incapable of assuming the responsibilities expected of a socially adequate person, such as self-direction, self-support and social participation.”Mentally retardation is a condition or state of mind. Special Education classes at the primary level provide experiences in oral language and speech development, sensory-motor development, self-awareness, group membership and social adjustment, self-care, safety, manipulation of materials, work habits, direction following, and reading readiness. By the elementary level mildly mentally retarded have begun to learn tool skill subjects such as reading, writing spelling, and math. The secondary program provides increasing emphasis on preparation for work and home living, civic responsibilities, news media, use of leisure time, family life education, consumer education, finances, practical law, social roles, travel and vocational choices. Special education for Mildly M.R. Children should focus on-Developing basic academic skills, Social competence, Personal adjustment, Occupational adequacy.