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Morning Routines in Autism Classrooms

We all have routines. I definitely have one. Before I even get into the classroom, I have a routine of things I do to get… Read More »Morning Routines in Autism Classrooms

Transition Strategies to Stop Meltdowns

Are you working with students who have Autism? Students with transition issues? Or just students period. Lots of different types of kids can struggle with having to transition from activity to activity. It is a very unstructured process that isn’t good for everyone. What can you do? Try these transitions strategies to stop meltdown when it’s time to move on.

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Parent Engagement in Autism Units

As teachers in self contained classes or Autism Units, we are tasked with being care takes, educators, advocates, surrogates, and darn near family for each student we work with. Sometimes we can start to forget that fostering a friendly relationship with parents is also part of the job. Parent engagement in Autism units is important. So how can you do those little things that help parents feel involved, help you grow a stronger relationship, and provide moms and dads with a full experience as the parent of a school-aged kid.

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Hurricane Harvey Recovery

Many readers have reached out to find out how my family is recovering after Hurricane Harvey. This is an update I started a week ago,… Read More »Hurricane Harvey Recovery

Hurricane Harvey Help

Dear Readers and Friends, I need help. Like so many others in the Greater Houston area, I nearly fell to my knees this morning… Read More »Hurricane Harvey Help

Survive and Thrive in a Self Contained Classroom

When I walked into my first LIFE Skills classroom I was teaching so many different leveled students so many subjects (seemingly at the same time) I really didn’t know where to start. Like a lot of new teachers, I thought I could teach in self contained like I taught before- whole groups where I “performed” and called students to perform back on cue. Problem is self contained does NOT work that way. When you ask for a performance, you’ll likely get something you did not anticipate. I was in the classroom with non-responsive students, high functioning Autistic students, emotionally disabled students with a bevy of behavior problems, and students with Down Syndrome and varying levels of functioning depending on the task. I had a hard time planning lessons. After much trial and error, I found that the following things were absolutely necessary to survive and thrive in a self contained classroom.

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Adapted Books in Autism Units

Wanting to add more and meaningful activities to your classroom?

Have you tried adapted books?

Learn more about using adapted books in Autism Units!

Using Adapted Books in Autism Units

I love adapted books. LOVE! They are one of my favorite tools in Autism classrooms. When it comes to working on basic skills, advanced concepts, content area ideas, or even personal information, adapted books are a great way to effectively target specific skills in a way that is engaging for students.

Laminating Hacks for Teachers

Are you looking for a cheap and easy alternative to laminating pouches? We’ve got 5 laminating hacks for teachers plus a bonus you can find in your kitchen!

Free Visual Supports for Students with Autism

You know you need visuals in your Autism Unit and when you work in any self-contained classroom, but which ones are the right ones? Here’s a roundup of FREE Visual Supports for Students with Autism for you to consider!