Featured Posts
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...
Boosting Literacy with Adaptive Books: Tips for Special Education Teachers
As a special education teacher, finding the right resources to help students build literacy skills can be a challenge. Adaptive books are a fantastic tool to engage students with varying needs and abilities, giving them a chance to learn at their own pace and in a way...
The Only Curriculum You’ll Ever Need
Let's talk about the best curriculum out there for my self-contained classroom! As a teacher in a self-contained classroom, I’ve always sought resources that truly meet the diverse needs of my students. After years of trial and error, I finally found a game-changer:...
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,...
Summer Homeschooling With Multiple Kids
Homeschooling in the summer can be a refreshing change of pace, but when you’re teaching multiple kids at different levels and different needs, it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re juggling speech goals, sensory needs, AAC use, or different IEP...
Planning for the Fall: Part 2 – Visual Schedules
In Part 1, we laid the foundation for planning for the fall by mapping out the physical structure of your classroom. If you missed it, check it out here. Now that you have planned the physical structure, you can start creating individual visual schedules for your...
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...
Creative Homeschool Ideas for Children with Autism This Summer
Summer homeschooling for children with autism can be a beautiful blend of structure, play, and meaningful moments. While therapy sessions and routines might still fill your calendar, there’s also room for connection, discovery, and progress, without the pressure....
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...
Planning for the Fall: Part 1 – Physical Structure
With the school year wrapping up in just a few short weeks, it is never too early to start thinking about the next school year. By now, most teachers have a good handle on their incoming caseload and can start creating a good plan to take away from the busyness of...