In Estonia, approximately 29,000 schoolchildren require additional support. Of these, 9,000 children need significant assistance. Children with special educational needs should learn together with others. If necessary, they can study in small groups or individually. However, schools are overwhelmed by this.
Teachers find it difficult when there are many children in a class. For example, there may be 20 students in a class. Among them, there may be 10 children with special needs. Each child requires different assistance. One child may be inattentive. Another may not understand written instructions. A third may have another issue. The teacher must teach everyone according to their needs.
The number of children with special educational needs has grown over the years. However, not every school has enough specialists. There is a need for special education teachers, speech therapists, psychologists, and social pedagogues. It is difficult to teach in large classes. Teachers need help and knowledge.
The development plan of the Ministry of Education states that the country lacks a comprehensive plan. Problems vary by region. In some regions, there are few students. In other regions, there are too many students and a lack of space.
A school psychologist says that the number of children is increasing because people's awareness has improved. Previously, these children were not noticed. Also, the changing society and digital devices affect children's attention. Parents are busy, and families do not have enough time for their children.
The state supports school administrators depending on the amount of assistance needed.