As a special educator, it is our duty to support our students in all parts of life. That’s why we get to teach things like life skills, go on community outings, and use social stories for holidays! Here are some ways you can support your students this February for Valentine’s Day.
There are a few ways we can support our students for holidays like Valentine’s Day. The best ways are to use visuals, social stories, and schedules to support the changes in the day.
SOCIAL STORIES
Social stories are an important way to teach about what will happen for a certain holiday or party. It explains to the student what will be different that day explicitly! Read the social story to the student ahead of time and each day leading up to the party to review.
VISUAL SCHEDULES
Visuals and visual schedules are so important ESPECIALLY the day of a special event or party. Having a visual schedule for a day with lots of schedule change helps students know what to expect for a party! This reduces anxiety and prepares them for what is next and reduces behaviors. You definitely want to incorporate visuals for any days that are unusual! Even if you think a student will be fine, make sure to have a mini schedule to support them.
PRACTICE PASSING OUT CARDS
Most Valentine’s Day parties include passing out cards to students in the classroom. You can practice this skill with the practice cards included in this set. Students can fill out the cards and pass them out to their favorite people in the school to practice as a social skills activity.
Download Valentine’s Day Visuals here!
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Another great way to support students is lots of read alouds about the holiday, here’s my favorites (affiliate links):
