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Many students face challenges in maintaining focus during school hours, especially those with sensory processing differences. Background noise, chatter, and unexpected sounds can create distractions that make learning difficult. Noise cancelling headphones offer a practical solution by reducing auditory distractions and creating a calm environment. This post explores how these headphones benefit students with sensory needs and when they work best. How Noise Cancelling Headpho

Creating a supportive environment in a special education classroom means understanding the unique sensory needs of each student. Sensory tools can make a huge difference in helping students stay calm, focused, and engaged. This post highlights five must-have sensory tools that can transform your classroom into a welcoming space where every student can thrive. My calm down corner this year. Sensory-Friendly Calm Down Corner A calm down corner is essential for students who need

This blog contains affiliate links. Thank you for your support! You can find a copy of the book here: https://amzn.to/4jleHuG The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is a beloved children’s book that captures the simple joys of a snowy day through the eyes of a young boy named Peter. Its gentle narrative and vivid illustrations make it a perfect choice for early childhood classrooms. For educators working with autistic students, adapting this story into a sensory-friendly experience

This blog contains Amazon Affiliate Links. Reading stories aloud is a powerful way to connect with children, especially in special education preschool settings where sensory experiences and hands-on learning can make a story truly memorable. Maisy's Snowy Day offers a gentle, engaging narrative about Maisy’s adventures in the snow, making it an excellent choice for young learners with autism. This guide provides practical ideas for teachers to bring the story to life through

Preschool classrooms are vibrant places where young children learn, play, and grow. For autistic kids and children with ADHD, these environments can sometimes feel overwhelming. Sensory needs and the desire for movement often require special attention to help these children stay focused and comfortable. One tool gaining attention for its positive impact is the spinning chair, also known as a sensory swivel chair. These chairs offer more than just a place to sit—they provide s

Developing a love for books in young children can be challenging, especially in early childhood special education classrooms. Many students may initially resist reading or show little interest in books. Yet, fostering a positive relationship with literature is crucial for building literacy skills and supporting overall development. This post shares practical strategies used by an early childhood special education teacher to inspire a love for literature in students who usuall

Every classroom has moments when students feel overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated. In an inclusive classroom, where diverse needs and abilities come together, these moments can happen more often. Creating a calm down space offers students a safe, quiet place to regain control of their emotions and refocus. This space does not need to be elaborate or expensive. A simple, thoughtfully arranged corner with a few comforting items can make a big difference. This blog has Amazon A

Every year, the classroom setup in early childhood special education changes to meet the unique needs of the students. There is no one perfect arrangement, and what works one year might not be effective the next. Looking back at my 2023 classroom setup, I want to share how the space evolved, what influenced those changes, and how the environment supported my students’ learning and growth. Understanding the Needs of Students The foundation of any classroom setup is the student

Teaching students with a variety of needs requires more than just instructional skills. It demands deep understanding, empathy, and knowledge about diverse learning styles and challenges. Books can be powerful tools for special education teachers to gain insights into their students’ experiences, needs, and strengths. This post offers a carefully selected list of books that provide practical guidance, emotional understanding, and strategies to support students effectively. Th

Engaging preschool children with autism can be challenging, especially when trying to find activities that hold their attention and support their development. One effective tool is The Mitten , a classic story by Jan Brett that offers rich opportunities for creative learning. This blog post explores how educators and caregivers can use The Mitten to create meaningful, sensory-friendly activities that encourage communication, social skills, and sensory exploration in preschoo

Winter offers a unique opportunity to engage preschool children, especially those with autism, in sensory-rich, interactive learning experiences. Books like The Mitten , The Hat , Snowy Day , and 10 on the Sled provide wonderful stories that can be transformed into hands-on activities tailored to the needs of young learners. These stories not only introduce winter themes but also support language development, social skills, and sensory exploration in autism classrooms. This

Teaching special education students with significant behavioral challenges is a demanding and often overwhelming responsibility. The intensity of managing behaviors, meeting diverse needs, and maintaining a positive learning environment can lead to high levels of stress and burnout. Burnout not only affects teachers’ well-being but also impacts the quality of education and support students receive. Finding effective strategies to reduce burnout is essential for sustaining tea

The holiday season brings joy and celebration, but for special education teachers, it can also bring added stress. Managing diverse student needs, planning engaging activities, and balancing personal responsibilities often intensify during this time. Stress can affect your well-being and your ability to support your students effectively. This post offers practical strategies to help special education teachers navigate holiday stress while maintaining a positive classroom envi

Amazon Affiliate Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future by guiding and inspiring students every day. Finding a meaningful gift to express your appreciation can be challenging, especially when you want it to feel personal and sincere. This post offers practical and heartfelt ideas to help you choose gifts that truly show gratitude and respect for the hard work teachers do. Homemade Cards with Personal Notes One of the most meaningful gifts a teacher can receive is

This blog contains Amazon Affiliate Linkes Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often engage in chewing or mouthing non-edible items. This behavior can pose safety risks and disrupt learning. One effective strategy to address this challenge is the use of chews—safe, specially designed oral sensory tools. These tools not only help deter the consumption of inappropriate items but also increase student engagement in the classroom. This post explores how chews can be

*This blog contains Amazon Affiliate Links* Preschool classrooms for children with autism thrive when activities are both engaging and supportive of developmental goals. The book 5 Little Monkeys Swinging in a Tree offers a playful and rhythmic story that can inspire meaningful learning experiences. This blog post explores how educators can use this story to create activities that promote communication, motor skills, social interaction, and sensory engagement in autism class

Creating an inclusive classroom means more than just accommodating different learning styles. It involves fostering an environment where every student feels valued for who they are. The book It's Ok To Be Different by Todd Parr offers a simple yet powerful message that supports this goal. This review explores how the book can be a valuable tool for educators aiming to celebrate diversity and encourage acceptance among young learners. If you would like to purchase this book f

Winter brings a special opportunity to share stories that warm the heart and spark curiosity. For educators working in autism classrooms, selecting books that engage students while supporting their unique learning needs can be a challenge. Never Touch a Polar Bear stands out as an excellent choice for a winter read aloud. This book combines humor, clear visuals, and simple language to create an inviting experience that resonates with children on the autism spectrum. Illustra

Amazon Affiliate Links provided to find items needed as well as support my teaching business and classroom. Thank you for your support! Engaging students in inclusive classroom activities can be challenging, especially when trying to maintain their interest and support their learning needs. One effective way to capture attention and encourage participation is through familiar stories that offer clear structure, repetition, and opportunities for interaction. The classic tale o

Autumn brings a special kind of magic to classrooms, especially those supporting children with autism. The changing colors, cooler air, and seasonal activities create a rich sensory environment that can engage and inspire young learners. One of the best ways to connect with children during this season is through carefully chosen books that celebrate fall themes like pumpkins, squirrels, and Halloween. These stories not only introduce seasonal vocabulary but also support socia