Kindergarten and classroom integration

[Guest guest]

Hi,

My son is starting kindergarten in September. He has apraxia, a language

disorder, a word retrieval issue, and is cognitively normal. He is a bright,

happy, social boy at home and with friends, but he's self-conscious and shy with

people he hasn't achieved a comfort zone with. His speech output is severely

delayed, and he takes a long time to get his sentences out. His speech sounds a

bit like that of a severely hearing impaired person.

The classroom he is entering is integrated, with an extra aide for him, and two

other kids.

I think it would help to write a letter to the other parents introducing Will

and explaining his issues. People sometimes make the mistake that he's

cognitively impaired, or has issues he doesn't, because of the way he speaks. I

really want to help him get off to a good start socially, and intend to be

proactive with playdates, with the hopes that he can forge friendships with the

kids in his class.

I wonder if writing a letter is a good idea? Should I also go into the classroom

to speak with the kids? Should my son, Will, be there if I do? Has anyone done

this, and do you have any advice, or even a copy of your letter, or suggestions

how to phrase things?

Thanks for any advice!!

Nadine