Autism Classroom Resources Podcast: A Podcast for Special Educators

You know what gets a bad rap with special ed teachers? Lesson planning! Whenever I ask around, I always discover there’s a mixture of opinions, and some teachers incorporate lesson plans while others don’t. In the last episode, when I discussed some common routines for setting up classroom systems, I touched on lesson planning for a bit. You might think it’s unnecessary. But if you truly want your classroom to run on autopilot so you can focus on teaching students instead of managing the room, you’ll need lesson plans as a tool to help you do it. It doesn’t have to take up a ton of time, either. So today I want to talk about why lesson planning is important and how to make it work for you. 3:43​ - Making the case for why lesson plans are critical 4:37 - Two examples of the form that lesson plans can take 5:21 - How lesson plans help your administration, families, the state, and beyond 6:22 - The relationship between IEPs and teaching plans 7:02 - The biggest piece you need to turn your lesson plan into a routine 10:05 - Another important component to add to your lesson planning 10:34 - Two final things to do for your students and staff Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode86 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Do you pressure yourself to do everything alone? Then listen up! Running a special education classroom isn’t something you can do by yourself, and having a system of routines just makes things easier. So in this episode, I want to talk about organizing strategies and routines to assist you in the daily running of your classroom. You’ll start the new school year off well and keep your classroom structure running more smoothly and automatically! 5:03 - Looking at the routines you need to consider for your classroom 5:47 - How establishing a lesson plan routine benefits both you and your staff 7:02 - Another group you’ll want to give responsibilities to in your routines 8:06 - How to make sure your routines get done and get done right 9:47 - What I’ve learned about delegating tasks and how it affects you Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode85 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Graphics are good! Despite those who say otherwise, you can never have too many visuals. When you start putting a classroom together, it can feel a little overwhelming. How do you make decisions about where to start prepping without stressing yourself out? In this episode, I talk all about visuals and specifically focus on prioritizing the ones you need to include for a smoother teaching experience. 4:31 - The first step to narrowing down decision-making 5:18 - What you need to consider when prioritizing individual schedules 7:28 - The critical items you must include to make student schedules work 8:12 - Systems I believe every special ed classroom should have 8:56 - Signs you need to have on-hand early on 10:29 - Schedules to think about beyond day 1 12:40 - Use this if you know you’ll have an issue with rules 13:33 - How to keep your student's feet to the floor 14:03 - Visual cue ideas to keep your staff on track Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode84 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

We’re building the center of the classroom to support instruction so that the day-to-day running of the classroom works on its own. But in order to do that, we need systems. Systems get set up so that the people in the classroom know what needs to be done and can do it on their own without the teacher’s attention being pulled away to direct something. A system like a zoning plan takes some time upfront, and yours will need to be tweaked since you won’t get it perfect at the beginning. But a zoning plan can help save you time and energy and make your life a whole lot easier. 4:55 - Needing to direct staff as a special ed teacher 6:31 - 3 reasons why a zoning plan saves your sanity Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode83 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Last week, I talked about creating a schedule for implementing the IEP in your classroom. With your schedule in hand, now you’re ready to start putting together the actual physical design of your classroom. In other words, it’s now time to move the furniture. So in this episode, I’m all about the goals of what we need to consider in moving that furniture and setting up your classroom. 3:02​ - How certain spaces make you feel 7:18 - Overall goals for classroom setup 9:02 - Ways to design the physical classroom space Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode82 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Today, I’m focusing on setting up the classroom schedule for the IEP. To me, the schedule is the most important and pivotal element of classroom design. It drives the other pieces of the classroom, tells me what the physical space will look like, and it’s based on the teaching implementation plan. Once the TIP is completed, it’s easier to see what activities are going into the schedule, and once the schedule is complete the other pieces start falling into place. So in this episode, I talk about the characteristics of a strong schedule. 2:49​ - High levels of engagement with instruction and interaction 6:07 - Tying each activity to specific goals and objections for each student 7:11 - Quickly-moving daily pace and engaging students 10:34 - Integrating each student’s goals and objections and your curriculum Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode81 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

So far, I’ve spent the last few episodes talking about creating a collaborative IEP. So now that that’s done, you have to then actually implement the IEP. Start thinking about how to organize your learning environment and incorporate the IEPs for all of your students to meet their individual needs. It takes a well-structured, well-organized classroom design. Today, I discuss your teaching implementation plan (TIP) for the IEP. 4:10 - What the TIP is and its objective 7:37 - How the TIP serves as a road map for your instruction 9:14 - How using the TIP makes your life easier Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode80 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

I’m excited to share with you an episode from a Special Educator Academy podcast I’ve pulled specifically for this IEP series. One of the things I think is extremely important but sometimes difficult to do is advocating for your students as an educator. Many times we’re their voice and know them in the classroom environment at a level that neither the administration nor their families do. But advocating for students can sometimes feel a little dicey when you’re faced with parents or administrators who don’t agree with what should be done. I recorded this episode a while back for the Academy members to give them tips on how to do this in a way that keeps you in good standing with your district while still serving your ethical responsibility to advocate effectively for your students. I hope you enjoy it and it gives you some ideas! 4:09​ - What advocating doesn’t always mean 4:45 - Tip #1 for advocating on behalf of your students 5:55 - Using your data 6:50 - Considerations when talking to your district 10:59 - Recognizing other perspectives, especially if there’s disagreement with the family 16:00 - Surefire way to get your district to mistrust you 19:44 - A quick recap of the tips Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources LINK TO Instructional Troubleshooting Quick Win form Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode79 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

I’m continuing my series on IEPs (and how much we love or don’t love them). Today, I focus on collaborating and want to talk a bit about perspectives. To start off the episode, I read a social narrative written for the IEP team, then cover what to avoid from the family’s point of view and how to make them feel comfortable during the meeting. 1:03 - The perspective everyone is meant to bring into the IEP meeting 3:34 - Obstacles in the IEP collaboration process for parents and students 7:44 - Ways to make families feel more comfortable during the meeting It’s very important in the collaboration process that we’re putting ourselves in each other’s shoes and trying to take each other’s perspective. We all have a different viewpoint and can come up with better solutions, but we have to work together to make it happen. Join us inside the Special Educators Academy for your 7 day free trial. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode78 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Have you ever wondered about the role of a general educator in IEP meetings, especially when the students involved have significant disabilities? General staff is required to be part of the IEP team, including the general education teacher. Sometimes that teacher fits into the team seamlessly. Other times they struggle with their role, and others may feel they’re not really needed and will just have them come in to sign the paperwork. But the general ed teacher can bring a lot of meaningful, functional things to the team and the meeting. As special educators, we can help prepare them for how to actively participate in these meetings, and that’s what I want to talk about in this episode as I continue this series on IEPs. 3:36​ - Ensuring that the general educator knows the student 5:38 - Helping the general ed teacher see their value to the IEP team 7:28 - Presenting social opportunities for or observations of the student 9:09 - Sharing information about typical grade-level students to the IEP team 9:52 - The advantage of the general education teacher’s instructional expertise 11:18 - Figuring out potential friends and role models for the student Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode77 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

IEPs can be intimidating, some more than others. I like to often use the Mary Poppins phrase, “Well begun is half done.” It’s true of almost everything, but it’s definitely true of IEPs where the meetings can go off the rails before they’ve even begun. The better prepared you are, the smoother these meetings go. And the smoother the IEP, the smoother the school year, generally speaking. Over the years, I’ve created a to-do list of what I think are the most important actions to take to start your relationship with the family off on the right foot and ensure a well-run IEP meeting, and that’s what I share in today’s episode. 2:59​ - Getting the parents input before (or during) the meeting 4:34 - Tips for preparing to talk about your experience as a special educator 6:53 - Meeting time set-up considerations to accommodate the family 8:39 - Advantages of using an agenda (and how IEP forms lead you astray here) 10:15 - How to ensure you have the needed forms ahead of time 12:08 - Quickly recapping the five tips Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode76 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

If you’re a special educator, then IEPs are probably not your favorite topic, but I’ll let you in on a secret. I kind of like them. I don’t like the marathons or the arguments, or even writing them. But I can’t imagine trying to work with our students without them and that’s one reason it’s so important we devote time to developing IEPs with your team. When I talk about them in this context, I’m referring to both the documents and the meetings because we need them both. Many times, it feels like IEPs drive our lives, and in a sense they do. They’re at the heart of special educational services and need to be living, breathing processes that have meaning and purpose. So you have to spend time and attention on both the document and the process by which you get there. To help, today kicks off a new, short series of episodes about IEPs and how to make sure yours live up to what you need them to be. Resources Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode75 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

If you are a special education teacher working with students with autism, then you know about visuals.  But you might be surprised about some of the myths about them.  You even might believe some of them. I'm busting 5 of the most common I hear and have tons of resources and free leisure schedule visuals. Whether you are an experienced special educator, you don't think visuals are for your students, or you work with someone who resists giving students visuals, this episode has something for you. Grab the transcript, freebie and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode74 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Many of you may not know this, but I have a sister with autism.  But that makes April pretty personal to me.  In this episode I'm going to talk about her experiences and why I think we need to move beyond awareness and on to appreciation as a society to #celebratedifferences. In this episode I am talking about my sister but I'm mostly focusing on how you can build appreciation for autism in your school and community. Some details about my sister's experiences I think we can all learn from Why I think autism appreciation and acceptance is so important 4 ways to develop autism appreciation with your school and community this April LINKS Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode73 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In today's episode I want to share a strategy that has become a huge tool for students to learn how to problem solve social situations.  I've talked about it in the past and describe it in more detail in this post.  Traditionally, in the literature we have about it, it's called a social autopsy.  However, I have found that many students (and sometimes teachers) hate this name.  Because those students are really perceptive.  Who wants to have their behavior autopsied after all! So one of them suggested the name After-Action Reports.  So I'm going to start referring to them as After-Action Analysis Reports. And it's the analysis that is really key to helping students learn to problem solve. Highlights of Episode 72 Find out what a social autopsy is and how it can be used in a social skills program Learn how social autopsies, or after-action analysis (AAA) reports, can help your students problem solve social situations Discover 3 key elements of AAA reports that you must have to help them be effective for problem solving Learn how AAA reports can also save you, as an educator, time by serving as a data source for behavior And grab a free set of of social autopsies or after-action reports from the free resource library --see the link to the post below If you are looking for a deeper dive into teaching social skills, we have a whole course on it in the Special Educator Academy. LINKS Grab the transcript, free download and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode72 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In this episode, Dr. Susan Kabot is sharing her biggest takeaway messages on how to teach pragmatics to students with autism and why it's so important.  This is the continuation of the interview from our last episode.  In episode 70,  she explained what pragmatics is and how it impacts these students so significantly.  We also talked a good bit in that previous episode, and again in this one, about how it's easy to underestimate the need to teach these skills explicitly for these students. She emphasizes something we both say frequently.  "Smart is not enough."  And she explains why. Highlights from Part 2: How to Teach Pragmatics Sue and I packed a lot into these 12 minutes, including the following. Can we tease pragmatics apart from social skills, the hidden curriculum, etc.? The impact of problems with pragmatics on common situations for students with ASD in the community. What educators can do to teach pragmatics to their students. Whether we should be teaching pragmatics with adults or peers. How to prioritize skills to teach pragmatics. And her biggest takeaway that she wants every educator to know about pragmatics for individuals with autism. Grab the transcript, free download and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode71 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Before I started working with Dr. Susan Kabot, I had never heard of pragmatics. And I certainly didn’t realize what a big impact they could have on the behavior of an individual with autism. So, when I started to think about episodes on how social skills impacts behavior, Sue was my first call. Because trust me, she can explain the intricacies of pragmatics in language than I can. We had such a great discussion, that I decided to cut the interview into two. In this episode we talk about what pragmatics are and how they impact student with high functioning autism. And I have a free download in this post related to one of the characteristics she notes. In the next episode, we will talk about how to teach pragmatics and things educators should think about when addressing behavior. Highlights of How Pragmatics Impacts Behavior Sue answers the biggest question of What Are Pragmatics? Because I had never heard of them before I met her. We talk about how pragmatics and social language impact individuals with autism with average or above cognitive skills (spoiler alert–some of it relates to our expectations). She talks about how educators’ expectations students impacts the behaviors and has a great story about this happening. And we talk about the role of pragmatics as a setting event in challenging behavior, among other impacts. Links: Grab the transcript, free download and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode70 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In this episode, I'm talking about how deficits in social problem solving puts our students at risk for negative behavior. I will also talk about why we need to look at social skills and social problem solving as part of our functional behavior assessment. And why we need to incorporate social problem solving instruction into our students' curriculum to prevent challenging behavioral issues. Finally, I've got a free tool that to download in the post for this episode that can help to remind them of some social problem solving strategies. Links: Grab the transcript, free download and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode69 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In this episode I focus on specifically how the hidden curriculum impacts students' behavior.  This relationship is particularly an issue for those who have the invisible disability that we've been talking about in this series that places them in situations with limited adult supervision.  That's primarily because their lack of understanding of the unspoken social context is often the reason they engage in behavior,. So I'm going to outline some common areas in which the hidden curriculum impacts students' behavior and some considerations we need to have in how we address the behavior.  And I'll point you to some posts and resources for that as well.   Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode68 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

While I can't detail all the ins and outs of teaching emotional regulation within an episode of a podcast, I can give you pointers toward 3 strategies that you can integrate together that can get you started.  So, in today's episode I have 3 tools I want to share to help you teach your students how to self-regulate along those same 3 steps. And I have a free download for you in the Resource Library that can help you get started with one of the strategies.  And lots of helpful links in the resource links below for relaxation strategies to use with your students too. Don't forget if you are looking for strategies to prevent challenging behavior in your classroom, I have a free Preventing Challenging Behavior webinar that you can watch anytime.  Plus if you are looking for more resources to help with challenging behavior in the classroom, we have a whole course on it plus tons of resources and workshops in the Special Educator Academy.  Come give us a try with a 7-day trial at specialeducatoracademy.com. Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode67 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In last week's episode (episode 65) I talked about students with ASD who overreact to the smallest of events, often involving change or small problems. I typically call it catastrophic reactions to trivial events.  Often these students melt down, but sometimes they also shutdown or give up.  The significance is that they overreact to events that are not in line with their reaction. In other words, the events are not seen as a significant event to us, but they are seen as devastating by the student.  For instance, students who misspell a word, tear up their paper and refuse to continue the assignment.  Another example would be a change in the daily schedule. Or a change in who runs an activity. Highlights of Episode 66: Strategies for Handling Change Hear 4 case descriptions of students who struggle with overreactions to minor events or changes that ruin their (and their teachers' days with solutions for addressing them. For instance, meet Brett who struggle with other students being absent and second grader Deandre who makes a simple mistake and sabotages all his hard work.  And find out strategies to help. Learn strategies that can be used to prevent meltdowns relating to change or other minor events as well as strategies for long-term teaching how to cope with them. Grab a free tool to use in your classroom to use with students who struggle with schedule changes. Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode66 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Free Preventing Behavior Webinar  https://library.autismclassroomresources.com/preventing-challenging-behavior-webinar-landing/ Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In today’s episode, I’m going to talk about 3 behavioral complexities that these students with high functioning ASD present.  I’m going to focus on the why of these behavioral challenges. Because when you understand the challenges that face students with autism, sometimes it becomes a little clearer. After all, behaviors that look like one thing (e.g., defiance or noncompliance) may really happen because of something else (e.g., difficulty understanding the direction or overwhelming anxiety). Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode65 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Today, I’m starting out with a 9-episode theme of individuals with high functioning autism spectrum disorder.  These are students with ASD who are working on grade level standards in general education.  And that is where we are going to start today. Over the years I’ve worked with many of these students. And I can tell you one thing for sure as an educator. Being “high functioning” does not mean that these students have an easier time of it in school or that they have fewer needs. It also doesn’t mean that they are less complex or easier to work with. In fact some of the most challenging situations I’ve dealt with over the years have been students in general education. What is Episode 64 About? These aren’t all the characteristics that individuals with ASD present.  But, these 5 characteristics and concerns are part of the reason why these students can really struggle in school.  I see them as the 5 issues that we run up against with their interactions around the school.  And many of them are related to others’ expectations of the students or perceptions of the students’ behavior.  Many times they are the reason they get in trouble.  And they are issues that we must address in order to provide quality education and support their needs within school. Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode64 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

The pandemic has been a really tough time to teach.  And you all have been amazing.  But it's been rough.   This episode is from the heart about lessons I learned about compassion fatigue and having to adjust expectations to manage to get through. These are specific lessons that I've adapted to our current situation.  I hope they can help you find ways to help yourself prevent compassion fatigue and burnout in the present situation.  I'm also going to share some resources that might be helpful if you are looking for more strategies to help you move forward. And then, the podcast (and I) are going to take a two-week hiatus over the break. I need to practice what I preach and rest my brain.  And I need to do some planning for the coming year to bring you more content.  We'll be back January 10, 2021 with a new episode!  Happy Holidays and remember to take time for yourself! Grab the transcript and resource links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode63 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

I Spy games have always been one of my go-to strategies to fill in time and engage students to build vocabulary and facilitate language skills.  I pull it out while we are waiting for the previous specials class to finish up.  Or when we have some extra time at the end of a center before rotating that I was expecting.  Over the years I've used them with all different types of students and for building all types of skills.  But I particularly like them for building expressive and receptive vocabulary skills. Grab a free I Spy activity in the blog post at autismclassroomresources.com/episode62 In this episode I cover 5 different adaptations of I Spy that will help you: target receptive vocabulary target expressive vocabulary work on question asking and answering address vocabulary with feature, function and categories simplify I Spy for early learners work on turn taking and even target basic letter skills. Grab a free I Spy activity, read the post and download a transcript in the blog post at autismclassroomresources.com/episode62 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

If we have ever needed to improve work efficiency in the classroom, this year is it.  You need to be able to get work done quickly and save some time for yourself and your family.  But, I know most of you are always feeling like there is more to be done.  Highlights of Episode 61 In this episode I'm going to talk about 3 ways that I've recently reminded myself of to help improve your work efficiency in your classroom.  This is part of self-care. You can't take care of yourself if you are overwhelmed by the demands. And yet I know that many of you are like me.  You want to do everything.  And you can't do everything.  So we have to prioritize to what needs to be done.  But we still need to get them done efficiently or doing 1 thing will take up all your time. Grab the free download, a transcript and more in the blog post at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode61 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Thanksgiving weekend episode bonus.  Over the years, I've shared on social media things that I think your students would thank you for.  So as a bonus episode (i.e., no blog post, but there is a transcript below), I thought I would share 3 things that I think your students would thank you for in this crazy year. Grab the transcript: https://acrlinks.com/thanks Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Episode 60 focuses on how to teach students to initiate communication.  Students with ASD struggle with initiation and often don't tell people what they need for want.  Learning how to initiate is a specific skill that needs explicit instruction.  This episode will get you started to teach it.   Highlights of Episode 60 Learn why initiation is such a critical life skill to teach explicitly Review the steps of teaching initiation of requesting Get tips on how to build independence in initiating through your instruction Download a free poster (see Resources below) to remind staff to wait expectantly Grab a transcript or read the post at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode60 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Today I'm going to talk about the 4 keys you need to address in your instruction for expressive language.  Expanding expressive language goes beyond just getting longer sentences or adding vocabulary, particularly for students with ASD.  In order to improve communication, we have to focus on how the expressive language is used.  That includes increasing the reasons or functions of the use of language.  You need to expand the situations in which the student uses expressive language. We should focus on initiating and independence of language. And finally we must expand the types of vocabulary. BONUS! Plus, I have free quick tip videos in the dropdown post that demonstrate different strategies I talk about in this episode.  You can grab them all in the dropdown of the post at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode59 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In today's episode I want to share my 5 tips for communicating with a nonverbal student. It is probably the question I get asked most frequently in some form or other.  Many of us work with students who do not have a way to communicate effectively and don't speak.  And we also sometimes work with students who communicate in alternative ways (e.g., a device, pictures, sign language). Highlights of Episode 58 Highlights of research showing that expectations are different for nonverbal students Discussion and examples of the impact of being nonverbal 5 tips to help you avoid these expectations traps in the classroom 2 free downloads to help you implement the tips in your classroom Grab the transcript, your free download and pictures at https://autismclassroomresources.com/episode58 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

I talked about the importance of using adult language in the classroom in a purposeful manner to model communication for students with autism in the last episode of the podcast.  Today I am following up with a freebie to help teachers share the information with classroom staff.  And I'm also sharing 3 ways that you can help all the classroom staff stay on track with adult language in the classroom. Highlights of Episode 57 How adult language gets off track in the classroom and why Why it’s so important to address adult language in the classroom 3 ways to to help staff keep their language on track with students’ needs Ways to get your staff to buy into why it’s important Grab the transcript, your free download and pictures at https://autismclassroomresources.com/episode57 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Have you been trying to figure out how to promote language in your special education classroom? There are some simple steps that can help with this to get started. My next few podcasts are going to focus on some of them, starting with this episode. One of the easiest ways to promote language in your classroom is to be quiet. I know that sounds counterintuitive but it’s true. And in today’s episode, I have 5 reasons WHY it’s so important to listen to (and modify) your language in the classroom. Highlights of Episode 56 5 reasons why talking may not always the right language facilitation model Differences between modeling and directing Ways to use language modeling effectively to effectively facilitate language The importance of expectant waiting and how it can be impacted in distance learning The role of language and talking in facilitating independence for our students HELPFUL LINKS Grab the transcript, your free download and pictures at https://autismclassroomresources.com/episode56 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

We all know how important visuals are for students in special education. When we think visuals we sometimes think daily schedule as the default.  But for some students, mini-schedules (or task analysis schedules) are even more important for independence. In this week’s episode I talk about 3 reasons why mini-schedules can improve your classroom and your students’ learning.   And there's a free mini-schedule to get started. Highlights of Episode 55 Find out why visual schedules are useful for more than just students with autism Discover why we should use them in every classroom Find out how they encourage nonverbal prompting Mini schedules (and schedules) aren't just for the students, they help staff And find out how and why they help to build your students' independence HELPFUL LINKS Grab the transcript, your free download and pictures at https://autismclassroomresources.com/episode55 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

As a preschool teacher recently said to me…"So I realized, for this kid, it's all about choices."  This particular kid (and many others) liked to be in control of EVERYTHING!  And he did it by refusing the teacher's directions.  This episode focuses on WHY choices can help behavior problems in the classroom and HOW to use them effectively.  You want to give the right kind of choices so you aren't getting into huge power struggles and negotiations.   And there is a free download in the blog post linked below. In This Episode Learn Why you win when you use choices What the research says about using choices as a preventive strategy for challenging behavior What type of choices you might give 6 tips of how to make choices work for you HELPFUL LINKS Grab the transcript, your free download and pictures at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode54 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

In this episode, I’ve got 3 ways that can help you easily, efficiently and effectively communicate with families. And hopefully to get information back from parents as well. Because we know that it needs to go both ways. Highlights of Effective Teacher Parent Communication So these three ways to communicate with families will meet share these characteristics. Easy to use Provide concrete information about activities, issues and performance Provide options for families to respond and share information Don’t require lots of time to complete on either side To help with all of this, I also have a free download in the Free Resource Library that I talk about in the episode. You can grab it by signing up or logging in below. This is a free Google form I created for the Special Educator Academy for the members to be able to edit and use with their families. Grab the transcript, your free download and pictures at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode53 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Teaching is hard. You know it’s true…I believe (especially right now) it’s one of the hardest jobs there is. And to do it well, it is essential that special educators advocate for themselves. Educators never cease to amaze me with their ingenuity and grit. But truly, no one can do this job alone. Our special education system is actually built to keep it from being a one-man show. And yet many times our classrooms feel like an island with no where to turn for help. Asking for help is a critical skill and this episode covers why that is so.  I also talk about the barriers that keep educators from advocating for themselves.  And finally I have 3 tips that can help advocate most effectively for what you need to make your classroom what you know it can be. Grab the transcript and pictures at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode52 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

This episode focuses on 3 ways you can create routines and strategies in the classroom to support engagement in learning and reduce downtime.  I'll start by talking about what downtime is. Because, no I don't think that teachers make a decision to have downtime in the classroom. They don't say, "Well it would be nice to take a little rest right now and let them do whatever they want." And then I'll share 3 ways that you can prevent downtime in your classroom that can lead to challenging behavior. Grab the transcript and pictures at autismclassroomresources.com/episode51 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Finding ways to monitor progress in distance learning for special education students is one of the questions I hear most frequently these days. We usually take data hands-on in the classroom, observing the student directly. And educators usually have control over (to some degree) the environment and conditions under which they observe the skills and behavior being monitored. But that's not the case in distance learning, where the student is at home and frequently being facilitated by family or caregivers. So, how do we get the data we know we need? Highlights of Episode 50 learn 3 easy ways to collect data download a free digital tool to allow you to get the information you need learn ways to modify data collection to meet the unique needs of distance learning Grab the transcript and pictures at autismclassroomresources.com/episode50 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

I love cooking in the classroom. It's one of my favorite activities to use with younger students and with life skills students. One of the things I like is that students are motivated by it. Because who doesn't like to eat, right? Another is the number of skills you can build and teach with cooking. But what about cooking now, as I'm writing and recording this--in the middle of the pandemic? How do you cook in the classroom with virus precautions? Or how do you use cooking as a teaching strategy in distance learning? In this episode I've got tips that address just those questions. I've got tips about how to cook in the classroom during the pandemic as well as tips for how to incorporate cooking into distance learning. Grab the transcript and pictures at autismclassroomresources.com/episode49-Includes links to cooking activities in my store Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Face-to-face online learning is useful in distance ed, but engagement can be an issue. Use these 3 tips to boost your students' engagement. Grab the transcript and pictures at autismclassroomresources.com/episode48 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

At the beginning of the school year, it's always all about the classroom routines.  But if you are back in the classroom in 2020, you probably have a few new Covid-19 classroom routines that are new to everybody.  Adding any new routines in the classroom can throw off the rhythm of the best functioning team.  And let's face it, there is enough going on in your head right now that anything you can begin to tame and rock the classroom organization is so worthwhile! In This Episode Rethink delegation as a way to boost collaboration Find out strategies to delegate effectively Grab a free tool to help you delegate and still get things done the way you want them Grab the transcript and pictures at autismclassroomresources.com/episode47 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Struggling with distance learning in special ed? The way to make it work lies with strong collaboration and coordination with families.  Grab 3 big, meaty tips in this episode for effectively working with families in distance learning to make the year a success. Highlights of Episode 46 Three big, meaty tips for collaborating effectively with families and caregivers in distance learning for special education Ideas for how to establish roles when collaborating with families in distance education Ways to assure documentation for distance education of learning plans Grab the transcript and pictures at autismclassroomresources.com/episode46 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

We know that the coming year is going to be different, in the fall of 2020.  But whether you are teaching at a distance or teaching in the classroom, you will probably still be working with paraprofessionals as part of your classroom team. In today's episode, I've got tips for managing staff by setting expectations with a classroom zoning plan for all different situations you may find yourself in.   And there are examples of zoning plans and more information at the blog post for this episode: autismclassroomresources.com/episode45 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

As the next step of our Setting up Classroom Series, this episode focuses on designing your classroom setup in special education.  Given that it was recorded in fall 2020, I'm also including tips for designing your distance learning space and tips for helping families develop learning spaces at home.   Highlights of Episode 44 7 Goals of setting up the classroom  Tips for designing your virtual instruction area Ideas for helping families set up their child's learning space in distance education Find transcript, notes and links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode44 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

As part of our Setting Up Classroom Series, this episode focuses on creating the classroom schedule for the special education classroom.  As we approach the beginning of 2020, and grapple with how to best educate students during the pandemic, setting up the special ed classroom schedule may seem like the least of our problems.  In reality, though, it’s still the most important. Whether you are doing distance learning or social distant classroom learning, the schedule continues to drive the predictability and routine our special ed classrooms need. It’s also one of the most complex parts of setting up a special ed classroom. Highlights Free download of 5 classroom schedules for all different school ages Grab tips about how to select the activities for the special ed classroom schedule Find ideas about how to schedule for distance learning Thoughts for ways to schedule centers in a socially distanced classroom Learn my decision process in deciding on allocating time to activities Tips to help with grouping students Ideas for how to put it all together and samples of real-life classroom schedules Find transcript, notes and links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode43 Autism Classroom Resources' Free Resource Library... http://library.autismclassroomresources.com Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

Imagine knowing, as you start the classroom setup process, what every student's needs are and how you plan to implement them in the classroom or in distance learning. What if you had a document you could hand to paraprofessionals that would not only make sure they know the IEP goals, but that they would know where and how to teach them and take data? And what if you had a document that helped you plan out distance learning as well as classroom learning and communicate it to the family? Well the Teaching Implementation Plan can help you with all of those and help get your classroom foundation off to a strong and solid start. Find transcript, notes and links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode42 Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

We are kicking off a a series all about setting up your special education classroom to maximize the engagement of your students.   I'm super pumped about this series because it's one of my favorite topics.   hint: I used to feel like I set up classrooms for a living.   So come along and find out why i'm excited about it, what it's about, and get started.   *And I know that this fall (2020) is going to be different so I'll be giving tips and strategies that will help whether your classroom is virtual or bricks and mortar. Find the Building Classroom Teams at https://autismclassroomresources.com/episode1 Find transcript, notes and links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode41 Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

This is just a quick episode that talks about some of the thoughts around the very difficult time our country is going through.  But I am the first to say this is NOT my area of expertise.  But we have clear data that show that students do not experience education equally.  I'll talk about that and how we, in the classroom, can make a difference. Also, I'm taking a hiatus from the podcast until after July 4...I'll be back on July 12 with a new episode.  In the meantime, I have some blog posts I want to share that can help with distance learning and getting ready for the new year. So check it out at https://autismclassroomresources.com  Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

We are coming to a "rest" in our remote learning journey. And that gives us an opportunity to stop and reflect on what we learned. I am a big proponent of reflecting on classroom practice regularly.  Without taking the time to reflect on it, we don’t have the opportunity to refine it and improve it over time. When I set up a classroom, one of the things we do every day after students leave is to sit down and talk about what worked and what didn’t work.  I suggest doing this for at least a week or two at the beginning of the year. This is a procedure that I use in part because I’m consulting and introducing new things.  And it’s always interesting to hear that things worked—especially if staff didn’t expect it to. And knowing what didn’t work allows us to brainstorm how we should solve it. Today's Episode So, for today’s episode I’ve pulled 5 questions from our workshop on reflecting on distance learning that I think can be helpful in guiding the next steps in the process of transitioning our students back to school and/or continuing with some level of blended or remote learning.  And I've got a free worksheet you can use to get you started. Grab your free guide worksheets at https://library.autismclassroomresources.com Find transcript, notes and links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode40 Want more information about the Special Educator Academy? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message

As special educators, we all want our relationships with families to result in positive IEP meetings.  This episode focuses on 5 things special educators can do during IEPs to build positive relationships with families and result in positive IEP meetings. I've talked about the mechanics of virtual IEPs in Episode 34. But with the advent of more virtual IEPs, I think the 5 tips from today's episode are increasingly important to assure that we can build strong collaborative relationships with families, which ultimately will lead to more positive IEPs. From the SEA Todays episode comes from the Morning Meeting Reflections Podcast from the Special Educator Academy. This bi-weekly podcast (1 of 2) focuses on stress relief, self care, and managing interpersonal issues like working effectively with families and building collaborative teams with educators. If you are looking for a community and ideas to make your job easier as an educator, come check out the 7-day free trial. Find transcript, a free checklist, notes and links at http://autismclassroomresources.com/episode39 Want more information about the SEA? SpecialEducatorAcademy.com Join the Free Facebook Group specialeducatorsconnection.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/autismclassroomresources/message