Adapted books are an amazing tool in the special education classroom! These books help increase student engagement and develop comprehension. Keep reading to find out how to create and use these learning tools!
What are Adapted Books?
Adapted books are books that are modified to make them more accessible to students with disabilities. They can include enhancements such as visual supports, tactile elements, and matching components. These books are engaging for students because they have interactive elements. They also help develop student attention, increase communication and participation, and develop vocabulary and language skills!
How to Make Adapted Books
Adapted books take a few steps to make, but the process is simple!
First, print your pages and laminate them. I use 5 millimeter laminate for durability.
Next, you will cut apart the pages and the pictures for the book. Keep the last page intact because it will be the landing page for your matching pictures!
Then, add velcro dots to your book pages and the matching pictures. Remember this tip for velcro: Hard on the card, soft stays!
Finally, decide how you will bind your book. For my books, I like to punch two holes in each page and use book rings to hold it all together. You could also use a binding machine if you have access to one!
Using Them in Your Classroom
Once your books are put together, they are ready to use in the classroom! There are a lot of great options for academic areas like science, social studies, and math that you can incorporate into lessons. These books help you introduce new topics. For example, I love using my November Adapted Books every year to discuss Thanksgiving-related topics. I start by reading the Pilgrim and Wampanoag books to my class before we dive into our lessons about the first Thanksgiving. Then, as students become more familiar with the topic, they can look back at the books to review what they have learned. They love reading and completing the themed books throughout the month!
After your students are familiar with how adapted books work, you can also incorporate them into different classroom work times. They make a good addition to independent work systems, or can be used with a paraprofessional during work centers.
Ready to try adapted books in your classroom? Check out this selection of books, including some free options! And if you have more questions about making and using adapted books, be sure to ask them below!
