Pros and Cons of Mainstreaming Your Child
One of the most important decisions parents of children with disabilities face is whether to place their child in a special needs school or in a mainstream classroom with supports. Both options have potential benefits and challenges—and understanding them can help you make a choice that best supports your child’s growth, confidence, and well-being.
At Morning Star Catholic School, we support families in making informed, faith-based decisions about their child’s education. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of each approach.
What Is Mainstreaming?
Mainstreaming refers to placing a child with special needs in a general education classroom alongside typically developing peers. The goal is to provide the least restrictive environment possible, with accommodations and support services like speech therapy, paraprofessionals, or behavior plans.
Pros of Mainstreaming:
Opportunities for social interaction with typical peers
Exposure to grade-level curriculum
Inclusion in school-wide activities and community
Cons of Mainstreaming:
Class sizes may be large, limiting individual attention
General education teachers may not be trained in special education
Child may feel isolated or overwhelmed if supports are inadequate
Mainstreaming works well for some students, especially those who can manage core academics with support. However, it’s not always the best fit for students with significant intellectual or developmental disabilities.
What Is a Special Needs School?
A special needs school is designed specifically for students with disabilities. These schools provide specialized instruction, therapies, and programs tailored to diverse learning needs.
Pros of Special Needs Schools:
Small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios
Teachers and staff trained in special education
Individualized learning plans and therapeutic support
Focus on life skills and developmental goals
A sense of community and belonging
Cons of Special Needs Schools:
Less interaction with typical peers (though inclusion programs may exist)
May be farther from home or require special transportation
At Morning Star, we address this gap through partnerships with local Catholic schools like Bishop Moore High School, where students participate in Best Buddies, Unified Special Olympics, and other inclusion programs.
Key Factors to Consider
Every child is different, but here are a few things to reflect on as you explore options:
Academic needs: Can your child keep pace with a standard curriculum, or would a modified one be more appropriate?
Therapy requirements: Does your child need daily speech, OT, or behavior support?
Social-emotional readiness: How does your child respond to large groups or busy environments?
Independence goals: What life skills does your child need to build for long-term success?
Faith and values: Do you want a faith-based education that nurtures the soul as well as the mind?
A Blended Approach at Morning Star
At Morning Star Catholic School, we believe in the best of both worlds. Our students receive the specialized instruction and therapies they need in a loving, Christ-centered environment, while also experiencing inclusion through structured, meaningful partnerships with other schools.
This blended approach ensures that students are both supported and challenged, both nurtured and celebrated. They grow academically, socially, spiritually, and emotionally—with the tools they need to succeed in life.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
There’s no “one right answer” for every child. But by learning more about each option, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts (and your prayers), you’ll be guided toward the best decision for your child.
If you’re considering a special needs school, we invite you to visit Morning Star Catholic School. See firsthand how we support our students with compassion, structure, and joy.
Schedule a tour today to explore whether Morning Star is the right fit for your family.