Bay Collyns, a former teacher, explains that her daughter’s experiences taught her how critically important elective activities can be for children with special needs. Because Collyns’s daughter was on the autistic spectrum and needed additional academic support, there was no time in her school schedule for elective courses. Collyns was fortunate to be able to provide her with opportunities outside school, such as therapeutic riding and art classes, where her daughter could strengthen her social skills, develop her talents, and take pride in her accomplishments. When educators debate the value of extracurricular activities, Collyns argues, they should keep in mind that for many students, such opportunities are just as essential as the academic core.

以前的老师贝柯林斯（Bay Collyns）解释说，女儿的经历告诉她，对于有特殊需要的孩子来说，至关重要的选修活动是多么重要。由于科林斯的女儿是自闭症患者，并且需要额外的学术支持，因此她的学校没有时间安排选修课程。柯林斯很幸运能够在校外为她提供机会，例如理疗骑术和美术课，在那里女儿可以增强社交技能，发展才华并为自己的成就感到自豪。科林斯认为，当教育工作者辩论课外活动的价值时，他们应该记住，对于许多学生来说，这种机会与学术核心同样重要。