They say "practice makes perfect", and what's a more motivating practice method than iPad apps!? While occupational therapists (OTs) will likely encourage more "hands on" activities, there is no denying that technology is part of our world. Kids can build skills using iPad apps too. I use apps in my treatment sessions and recommend them for home and classroom use. What's even better than an OT-approved app? Free OT apps! Check out the list below for some app suggestions to work on ... continue reading...
Latest
5 Tier-1 Supports to Use in Your Classroom
In the education world, we refer to tier-1 supports as universal programming used with all students in the classroom. These supports fit into the basic principles of Universal Design for Learning and aim to make instruction accessible to benefit most students. In this blog post, I share five tier-1 supports you can immediately implement in your classroom. Less is More When it comes to stimuli in the classroom, less is more. This includes visual and verbal stimuli. Limiting visual and ... continue reading...
Center Rotations for Special Education
What Are Center Rotations? Center rotations in special education can be very beneficial for students with diverse learning needs. These rotations can be structured to accommodate individualized instruction, small group activities, and even some independent practice! Here's a general guide on how I implement center rotations in my special ed classroom. 1. Assessment and IEP Goals You should begin by assessing each student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning goals outlined in their ... continue reading...
Center Ideas for Upper Elementary
Special education classrooms thrive on centers! I love incorporating centers into my upper elementary (grades 3-5) classroom schedule because they allow me to provide activities tailored to students' needs, while also helping my students learn to work independently. Looking for center ideas to use with bigger kids? Read on for some ideas that my students and I love! Reading Center Ideas Simple Comprehension The monthly Simple Comprehension stories and activities are perfect for using ... continue reading...
New Teachers
How to Attend Assemblies with Success
As an Inclusion Specialist, I always seek inclusion opportunities for self-contained classrooms. Assemblies are an excellent way to create shared experiences between students from self-contained ... continue reading...
Must-Have Containers for Special Education Teachers
Have you always wanted to be the type A organized special education teacher? Same here! After years of trial and error, I have found some organizational tools to make classroom routines more efficient ... continue reading...
Free Downloads
Free Apps For Special Education
Benefits of Using Apps in Special Education The use of technology in the classroom helps special education students in many different ways. Using free apps in the special education classroom ... continue reading...
Setting Up Data Sheets for OT Students
Setting up data sheets for all the students on my OT caseload is a big part of my back to school prep each year. I'm all about "working smarter, not harder!". Coming up with a streamlined system for ... continue reading...
In Case You Missed It
Safe Sensory Bin Fillers
You may have read my recent blog about spring sensory bins! When putting together sensory bins, it is always important to think about safety [in addition to fun!]. We wanted to post a blog with some ... continue reading...
Autism Acceptance Month Treat Bags
Are you looking for a fun, creative way to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month with your staff? Below, I will show you how to create this special treat bags that your students can make and hand out ... continue reading...