Going from self contained to integrated classroom

I am not sure if anyone on here has had experience with this yet.

Ryan is 3 and currently in an self-contained class without about 8 other boys. Ryan has a speech delay. He is doing VERY well and his speech has EXPLODED. I went to his class for parent participation day to observe him, and he seems to be more advanced than his classmates and not need the benefits of the self-contained room anymore.

I have a meeting with his school on Monday to go over his placement for September and I am thinking about asking to move him into the integrated class. He doesn't need as much one on one as he used to, and listens and interacts appropriately (HUGE change from when he started school in September).

My real question is.. did you notice a difference in switching the classes? I don't want him to regress, but I was thinking that maybe the different class would help him more. JUst looking for some experiences.

THANKS!!

Re: Going from self contained to integrated classroom

I would push for integrated, especially if he is the highest functioning in the self contained. Typical children are great role models for their lower functioning peers. When my son went from self contained to a mainstream class (since his school didn't have integrated), he did so much better socially, and his reading improved 100%. Had I have known the benefit of it, I would have pushed and held my ground when he transitioned to kindergarten and they kept telling me self contained was the answer.

Just remember, you are his parent, and you know what is best for him.

Re: Going from self contained to integrated classroom

I agree, I would push for the integrated class also. Lance's teacher has always told me that the least restricted environment is always the best, in her opinion anyway.

Re: Going from self contained to integrated classroom

Thank you ladies, for your comments. I think that I will push for this. I think it will only postively impact him. THANKS!

Re: Going from self contained to integrated classroom

You may also want to ask his teacher if he would be able to visit an integrated class during their circle or playtime to see how he does. Good luck!