Academics

Cerebral Palsy vs Autism - 7 Key Differences for Teachers

Cerebral Palsy vs Autism: 7 Key Differences Between Them

Let’s face it… as a special education teacher, you never know what types of students will end up in your classroom. Disabilities and abilities will vary greatly from year to year and student to student. Understanding the differences between them can be the key to providing effective support and creating a positive and inclusive classroom. In this post, we’ll explore the key differences in cerebral palsy vs autism in detail. Then we’ll give you some specific strategies and ideas that will help you better support your students. Let’s dive in and help you to transform your classroom and instruction!

7 Ideas on Fine Motor Skills in Children with Down Syndrome

As educators working with students who have significant disabilities, we know how essential it is to support their growth in various areas. Fine motor skills are the building blocks of daily activities, self-care skills, and communication, and they play a crucial role in a child’s ability to navigate the world. To do that effectively, we need some creative and effective ways to enhance fine motor skills in the classroom. Let’s dive into some ideas on developing fine motor skills in children with Down syndrome.

Structured Classroom Layout in Special Ed - How to via Noodle Nook

Structured Classroom Layout – FREE Checklist for SpEd Success

Physical Structure is a pillar of structured classrooms- and I am always shocked at how many people get their structured classroom layout all wrong!

If you’re gearing up to transform your classroom empty classroom into a dynamic space for students with special needs, there’s one thing you absolutely need for sure: To nail that physical structure! Your structured classroom layout is the secret weapon to make your year a success… and trust me, it’s easier than you think to do!

Autism Independent Living Skills - Essential Life Skills for Special Ed via Noodle Nook

9 Essential Life Skills for Students with Autism

Living an independent life is a dream for every young adult, including those on the autism spectrum. However, achieving this goal requires mastering certain essential life skills. In this blog post, we’ll explore nine essential life skills for students with autism that can set them up for postsecondary success. From managing daily routines to handling money and social interactions, these autism independent living skills will empower individuals with autism (and those with an array of other developmental disabilities or intellectual disabilities) to confidently navigate adult life. If you are a special education teacher, grab a pen and paper… Let’s dive in and discover how these functional life skills can lead to greater independence and fulfillment in everyday life.

Data collection teacher tips in special ed

Data Collection Tips for Teachers: Hacks for Tracking Progress in Special Education

Hey there, awesome teachers in special education! Are you ready to conquer data collection like a pro? Don’t worry; I’ve got some nifty tricks up my sleeve that will make tracking progress a breeze! Let’s dive in and discover how to make data fun and helpful in your classroom. Ready? Let’s go!
Step 1: Set Clear Goals and Objectives 🎯
Start by setting clear goals and objectives for your students.

10 Best Back to School Tips for Special Education Teachers

Hey there, SpedTacular SpEducator! It’s that time of the year again—the back-to-school season is just around the corner. As you gear up for another exciting year of shaping young minds, we’ve got your back with the 10 best back to school tips for special education teachers just like you. So, grab your highlighters (and the beverage of your choice) and prepare to kick off the upcoming school year on the right foot. We’ve got your to-do start-of-school checklist ready to go!

showcasing hands-on teaching activities for composing and decomposing numbers.

Engaging Activities for Composing and Decomposing Numbers

During a teacher appreciation week, I found myself up early strolling through a big box store trying to find a perfectly practical yet thoughtful gift for my amazing teacher team. Excitement washed over me as I found the perfect insulated mugs. Only one problem. There were only three. I hunted down a store employee and asked them if they had any more in the back because I could only find three but I needed eight. To my surprise, the employee asked, “Well, how many more do you need then?” At that moment, rather caught off guard, I realized how important math fluency is in everyday situations. That’s why there’s immense value in incorporating activities for composing and decomposing numbers in your classroom.

Down syndrome personality traits and how to support students in the classroom.

Understanding Down Syndrome Personality Traits: A Guide for Teachers and Parents

For people with an extra chromosome, there are several traits that are more likely to occur. The most important thing to remember is that not every person with that same extra chromosome is exactly the same. Yes, there are some general Down syndrome personality traits, physical differences, and cognitive differences. Again, individuals with Down syndrome are individuals and share many of the same personality traits as everyone else. So let’s explore the various personality traits commonly seen in individuals with Down syndrome, and provide tips on how to support their emotional and cognitive well-being.

Best Math Differentiation Strategies - 5 Ideas for Supporting Students

5 BEST Math Differentiation Strategies (for Special Ed)

Teaching math can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and with one hand tied behind your back. But don’t worry, we’ve got you! In this post, we’re going to share some of the best math differentiation strategies that will have your special education students understanding math like a boss. So grab a cup of coffee (or wine, no judgment here) and get ready to take your special education instruction to the next level with these 5 best math differentiation strategies plus tons of bonus tips!

Reading Comprehension IEP Goals

Reading comprehension is a crucial skill for students to master, regardless of their ability level. For students with significant disabilities, however, this can be particularly challenging. As a teacher, it’s essential to set meaningful, achievable, and measurable IEP goals to help special education students develop their reading comprehension skills. In this blog post, we’ll discuss strategies for creating practical reading comprehension IEP goals that target the special needs of students with special education services.