special needs

plural noun

: any of various difficulties (such as a physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment) that causes an individual to require additional or specialized services or accommodations (such as in education or recreation)

students with special needs

special-needs

ˈspe-shəl-ˈnēdz 

adjective

or special needs

special-needs children

a special needs teacher

Examples of special needs in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The foundation hopes to roll out its first demo at St. Cloud High School in spring 2025 with about 20 students with special needs. —Michael Cuglietta, Orlando Sentinel, 26 Dec. 2024

Anchorage's low level of federal support — $418 per student — stems from its low number of students with special needs. —Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 24 Dec. 2024

One of Lam’s greatest triumphs is a life-sized juvenile elephant made from recycled materials — toilet paper rolls, egg cartons, paper drink holders, etc, — which was proudly on display at the Palo Alto Cultural Center as part of an exhibit featuring artists with special needs. —Jim Harrington, The Mercury News, 21 Dec. 2024

Inspired by her long-time dedication to supporting peers with special needs, Gina launched the Sensory Connection Project to advocate for those in the Academic Life Skills and Special Education programs. —Susan Soldavin, Baltimore Sun, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

special needs

plural noun

: any of various difficulties (such as physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment) that causes an individual to require additional or specialized services or accommodations (such as in education or recreation)

special–needs adjective

Medical Definition

special needs

noun plural

: the individual requirements (as for education) of a person with a disadvantaged background or a mental, emotional, or physical disability or a high risk of developing one

Some urban homeschooled kids, particularly those with special needs, were previously enrolled in school but not served well there.

—Linda Perlstein, Newsweek

special-needs adjective

special-needs students