Page 82 - School Bus Operators and Attendants Handbook

 Talk about the same things as with any other child
 Keep rules simple and understandable, especially if the student has a cognitive impairment or if
they are young
 Reward students for following the rules with praise, stickers, or claps. Use social reinforcements
such as smiles, winds, nods, etc.
 Restate a question or statement if the student did not understand it. Communicate through
written notes if necessary.
 Use body language and facial expressions to communicate with students
 Learn simple sign language such as hello, yes, no and good.
 Ask for an interpreter if needed to explain or clarify information with a signing student

Dual Sensory Impaired (DSI)

As the name implies, students with this disability have impairments of both hearing and vision. They may
have additional disabilities such as physical and/or mental impairments. Their vision and hearing can range
from mild to moderate to profound losses in either one or both modalities. Consequently, the degree of
special services, supervision, and assistance for the student will vary. These students require very
specialized teaching techniques and strategies for learning and managing their behavior, which may vary
somewhat from those techniques needed by students who exhibit only one sensory impairment.

Students with Dual Sensory Impairment must be closely monitored since they are at an increased risk of
danger. They are often delayed in many areas of their development. They benefit from routine and
consistency in their daily lives. Generally compliant individuals, their behaviors may be a result of frustration
and unmet needs, possibly caused by an inability to communicate their needs and wants.

Suggested Management Techniques

 Assign the student a specific seat on the bus
 Seek advice from the student’s parent and/or teacher on how to help the student and how to
best communicate with him/her
 Assist the student in learning the bus routine. Physically assist the student if necessary
 Be patient with the student when he/she boards and leaves the bus
 The student may have some “odd” behaviors and movements like rocking of the body or head
shaking. Sometimes this is soothing to the student, but often they are not socially acceptable
behaviors. Check with the teacher regarding whether you should allow these behaviors or
intervene to stop them.
 Greet the student by physical touch such as a handshake or touch on the shoulder
 Allow the student to do as much as possible in order for him/her to increase travel skills. Seek the
advice of the school specialist.

Sign Language for Transportation

The following pictures are for you to study. They are the most common sign words that you might use on
a bus. Using sign language with students can be fun. Students and their teachers will often help you to learn

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Exceptional Student Education (ESE)