Planning for the Fall: Part 3 – Work Systems
Part 3 of the "Planning for the Fall" series focuses on work systems. Work systems are an organized way to practice skills that have been previously taught systematically. They can be used in multiple settings within the school environment, allowing students to be...
Nouns and Verbs: From Books to Play
Why Start with Nouns and Verbs? When we think about building language, it helps to start with the basics: nouns (people, places, and things) and verbs(actions). These are the foundation for helping young children begin to label their world and express their wants,...
5 Centers Set-Up Ideas for a Self-Contained Autism Classroom
Creating a structured, purposeful classroom environment is the cornerstone of success in a self-contained autism elementary setting. One highly effective approach is implementing rotating centers that support IEP goals, foster independence, and provide differentiated...
Sweet Summertime Activities
I cannot believe it’s time to be writing a summertime post! How is it already June (or maybe you’re thinking…finally)? I’ve rounded up some of my favorite activities that will help you finish up your year and get you started if you are continuing to summer...
Creating Predictable Routines for Young Learners
In our kindergarten through second-grade special education classroom, routines aren’t just helpful, they’re essential. Many of our learners thrive on predictability, and when routines are clear, consistent, and supportive, they create a classroom climate where...
Independent Centers: My Classroom Lifesaver
Running a self-contained autism classroom means wearing many hats: teacher, behavior support, data collector, communicator, and more. And when you're short-staffed (which let’s be honest, is almost always), independent centers have truly saved the day. In my TK-2nd...
Wrapping Up A Wonderful School Year as a Kindergarten Teacher
As the final days of the school year approach, I have noticed an increase in the energy in both our kindergarten students as well as staff. The weather is getting warmer and the end of the year is felt throughout the building. While there is still a lot of learning to...
Expanding on Kindergarten Reading Skills in the Spring
I love teaching in the spring! We can get outside more and increase hands-on experiences!. Spring is also a great time to fine-tune early reading and reading skills before they head to first grade. As kindergarten teachers, we can nurture a love for reading and help...
Life Skills 0.5 Curriculum
I was thrilled when I saw that there was a life skills 0.5 curriculum out! As educators and service providers we tend to focus on the academic skills. These life skill units focus on additional important functional language and generalizing concepts. Specifically,...
How General Education Teachers Can Incorporate Social-Emotional Learning Activities
As educators, academic skills are only a part of what students need to succeed in school and to increase independence in their home life. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is equally important, helping students manage their emotions, build positive relationships, and...
Spring Activities for Your Autism Classroom
Spring is a season of growth, renewal, and vibrant colors—making it the perfect time to create engaging activities for students with autism. These spring-themed ideas focus on sensory exploration, motor skills, and social interaction, all while celebrating the joys of...
Supporting Students in Specials
Teachers often ask how they can best support students in specials classes (art, PE, music, technology, etc.). Below, I have outlined some tips and strategies to help our learners succeed in these classes. Tips and Strategies for Supporting Students in Specials:...
Winter Themed Learning & Valentine’s Day
Let’s keep the themed, multi-level learning going with these fun Winter and Valentine’s Day themed activities! When I taught in the classroom, I frequently had multi-leveled groups, and using The Autism Helper’s resources were life changing. I love working smarter,...
Winter Activities for the Autism Classroom
Winter is a magical season, filled with opportunities for learning, fun, and sensory exploration. For special education teachers, creating engaging activities that cater to the diverse needs of students with autism is both rewarding and essential. Here are some...
How to Refresh a Kindergarten Classroom After the New Year Holiday
The New Year brings a fresh start, making it the perfect time to refresh your kindergarten classroom. After a long holiday break, both you and your students are ready for a new chapter filled with learning, creativity, and growth. Here are some simple and effective...
Work Tasks and Activities to Work on Pre-Reading Skills
Pre-reading skills can involve many activities, which you can incorporate into your work tasks, direct instruction, or small group lessons. These skills help lay the foundation for future reading skills. Check out some work tasks and activities below to add to your...
Winter Break Activities for Kindergarten-Aged Learners
Winter break is a special time to bond with your kindergarten-aged children and make lasting memories. This is also when I find myself trying to come up with fun activities to do as a family. I also recommend these to families when they ask for ideas. While the chilly...
Teaching Seasonal Vocabulary
Seasonal Vocabuarly Learning seasonal vocabulary can be an exciting way for students to connect with the world around them, and it’s especially helpful for autistic students. Here’s why teaching words like “autumn", "leaves,” “snowflake,” or “sunshine” can make a big...
Implementing Interactive Activities in the Classroom
Running small groups can sometimes be challenging, but by implementing interactive activities into your routine, students will be motivated to learn and put their skills to the test. WHAT ARE INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES? Interactive activities are fun, hands-on activities...
How to Create and Use Individualized Learning Bins
Kindergarten is a time for young learners to develop foundational skills, but each child progresses at their own pace and has unique learning needs. One effective way to address this diversity is through individualized learning bins. These bins are a powerful tool to...