This updated, detailed reference provides essential information for educators about common exceptionalities they are likely to encounter in an inclusive classroom. In easy-to-understand language, the book provides guidelines for creating safe learning environments, applying disciplinary measures, and defining parents' and educators' roles in developing Individualized Education Programs.

Presented alphabetically, each entry includes a definition of the disability, background information, characteristics, and a list of related readings, organizations, and agencies, with contact information. The author discusses a wide range of concerns, from ADHD, dyslexia, hearing impairment, and emotional disturbances to muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, aphasia, and cerebral palsy, and includes a review of health disorders such as asthma, diabetes, heart disorders, and hemophilia . The new sections in this second edition cover

• A comparison of ADHD and bipolar disorder
• Concise legal explanations and sources, with contact information and Web sites
• The reauthorization of IDEA 2004, NCLB, and postsecondary transition

Brief Reference of Student Disabilities, Second Edition, also provides a compilation of common disability-related acronyms and a list of children's books dealing with disabilities to foster understanding and awareness.