Featured Posts
Farm Activities for Fall
Off to the Farm! Even though it's still in the high 80s, it's Fall to me! Once September hits, I am ready for pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin patches, and visits to all of our nearby farms. The best farm in my hometown is Braehead Farm. Located in Fredericksburg,...
Using Adapted Books to Work on Color Concepts
Still working on color concepts with your students? I created another adapted book series about colors. This series includes; “What Color is the Food?”, “What Color is the Animal?”, and “What Color is the School Supply?” Many of the students on my caseload are...
Tips for Using Leveled Daily Curriculums In Your Classroom
I adore the Leveled Daily Curriculums. They are at the center of instruction in my classroom. Every student I have uses them, no matter their level. They are simple to use, super effective, and differentiated. Here are a few quick tips for using and organizing Leveled...
Skills and Targets Families Can Carry Over
Working with families is an important part of any learner's success. There are strategies that I have found to be most successful. My team and I are sure to communicate with families in their preferred method at least once a week. Some families prefer daily notes,...
3 Reasons Why You Should Play Outside Even in the Winter
For those of us who live in places where the weather gets very cold and snowy, winter can be long. We all know there are many benefits to outdoor play. You can check out my blog post on this topic here. Ice, snow and freezing temperatures can make outdoor play less...
Growing Up
The double digits are approaching for my girl. What’s next for Ady as she’s about to turn 10? Ady was diagnosed with autism and sensory processing disorder at age 2. She uses a device to communicate along with a few signs and some vocal speech (that I am very grateful...
Life Skills Lesson Plan: A Daily Outline
Teaching a life skills class was my favorite class to prepare and plan for. This class was critical in helping our students become independent in the real world and a class from which all students could benefit. I created the following lesson plan outline to make...
Winter Fun!
Beat the Winter Blues By January, when the holidays are over and everything settles into routine, the winter blues can set in. The weather in the mid-west gets cold, rainy, snowy, and gross. Indoor recess becomes the norm, and students (and staff!) get restless. Some...
The Professional Development Membership Preview
Doors to The Autism Helper’s Professional Development Membership are opening soon. This membership has positively transformed me as an educator and I want to show you how it can transform you, too!Who is The Membership For?Are you a hard-working special education...
Engaging Winter Fun Activities!
Coming back from the holiday break can be tough but knowing that snow, winter fun, and snowman themed activities were up next made it just a bit easier! These fun winter themed activities are sure to keep your students interested and engaged!Easy Weekly...
How To Implement ABA In The Classroom
Many of us know the advantages to ABA (applied behavior analysis) and what it can do for not only people with Autism, but in changing any human behavior. ABA was not started because of Autistic individuals. ABA is the science of human behavior that uses techniques and...
Focus on Five: Sub Plans
One of the major reasons I don’t like taking a day off from school is because of sub plans. Now that winter is upon us, students and teachers will inevitably get sick and sub plans are a must. In addition, teachers are people with families and mental/physical health...