Multiple disabilities
Last updated
Multiple disabilities is an IDEA category for two or more impairments together that create needs no single-disability program can meet.
Topic: Disability categories and conditions
In plain terms
Examples include an intellectual disability with blindness, or an intellectual disability with an orthopedic impairment. The category does not include deaf-blindness, which has its own. Students in this category often have complex communication, health and physical needs, and their support teams can be large.
How it shows up in an IEP
IEPs often include several related services, assistive technology and health plans. Goals should be coordinated across providers so the student practices the same skills, such as making choices with a switch, across therapy, classroom and home routines.
Example
A student who uses a wheelchair and communicates with eye gaze has a shared goal across the SLP, OT and teacher: choose between two activities by looking at a symbol in 4 of 5 opportunities.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.8(c)(7).
Related terms
- Deaf-blindnessUnder IDEA, deaf-blindness is combined hearing and vision loss that causes communication and learning needs no single-sense program can meet.
- Orthopedic impairmentUnder IDEA, orthopedic impairment is a severe physical impairment, such as cerebral palsy, that adversely affects a student's educational performance.
- Switch accessSwitch access lets a student control a device, computer or toy by pressing a switch with a hand, head, foot or other reliable movement.
- Related servicesRelated services are supports, such as speech therapy, transportation or counseling, that a student needs to benefit from special education.
- Most significant cognitive disabilitiesStudents with the most significant cognitive disabilities are a small group who need alternate achievement standards and extensive, direct support.
On IEP Atlas
- AAC & Augmentative Communication IEP goals
- Functional Communication IEP goals
- IEP goals for multiple disabilities
This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.