Editable Trading Cards – Social Emotional Learning Activities for Autism That Build Classroom Superstars
Looking for social emotional learning activities for autism? A way to boost student confidence, track behavior, and build a strong classroom community—all while keeping things fun and functional? Let me introduce you to one of my favorite editable social emotional learning activities for autism and preschool: character trading cards! Don’t miss these ideas, too! ABCs […]
5 Strategies for Teaching Feature, Function, and Class in Special Education
Teaching feature, function, and class in special education (FFC) is a key part of language development, especially for students with autism and other communication challenges. These foundational skills help learners understand relationships between objects, their purposes, and their categories—critical for building vocabulary, receptive identification, and conversation skills. Here are five strategies to make teaching FFC […]
Strategies for Teaching Vocal Imitation to Children
Teaching vocal imitation to children is a vital skill that lays the foundation for effective communication. Vocal imitation, or verbal imitation, is the ability to repeat sounds, words, or phrases after hearing them. This skill is especially important for children with autism, as it fosters language development and enhances social interaction. Here are some practical […]
How to Improve Communication with Families Through Daily Reports in Special Education
Are you ready for a new school year? One crucial element in special education is effective communication between school and home. Our latest podcast episode dives deep into daily reports in special education and how they can significantly impact student progress and family collaboration. Why Daily Reports Matter in Special Education Daily reports in special […]
Creating Task Analysis Visuals: The Key to Independence in Life Skills Classrooms
Need some task analysis visuals ideas for your classroom? Hey there, fellow educators and behavior enthusiasts! If you’re a teacher, therapist, or parent working with students who thrive on visuals (and hey, who doesn’t love a good picture guide?), then this blog post is for you. Summer is the perfect time to gear up for the […]
Potty Training Tips for Children with Autism: You’re not Alone!
Potty training tips for children with autism On a recent episode of the Misfit Behaviorists podcast, Caitlin and I did a 2-part series on … dun dun dun … potty training, especially potty training tips for children with autism, cuz that’s our love! Woohoo! If you have a neurodivergent child or work with students with […]
Compassionate Care ABA in Schools: Moving Beyond Rewards & Punishments
Have you ever felt like traditional Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methods were missing a crucial element – compassion? The good news is, ABA is evolving! In a recent episode of the Misfit Behaviorists podcast, my co-host Caitlin and I had a heart-to-heart about the importance of compassionate care ABA in schools. Let’s dive into what […]
Streamline Receptive Language Goal Tracking – A IEP Data Binder Solution
Receptive language goal tracking for your IEP data binder! Are you overwhelmed by tracking receptive language IEP goals for your students, especially those with autism or speech and language disorders? Juggling objectives, data sheets, and creating materials on the fly can steal precious teaching time. Today I want to tell you about the “Receptive Language […]
Autism Awareness Month 2024: Creating an Inclusive Classroom
Supporting Autistic Students Beyond April and Autism Awareness Month April is Autism Awareness Month, but true inclusion for autistic students in preschool or elementary classroom means making all our schools welcoming spaces all year round. Understanding autism, recognizing the unique needs of each child, and making thoughtful adjustments can foster a learning environment where everyone […]
How to Teach Class and Categorization for Language Development
Teaching class and categorizing skills is essential for building a strong foundation for language development. Understanding how things relate to each other through feature, function, and class (FFC) expands vocabulary, improves comprehension, and supports communication. This is especially important for young learners, those with special education needs, and during speech therapy. If you’re looking for […]
Teach Emotions & Letters The FUN Way: ABC Emotions for SEL Success
Are you a parent or educator looking for creative ways to support social-emotional learning (SEL) in young learners, especially those with autism? Teaching emotions can be a challenge, but it’s a vital skill for kids to develop. The ABCs of Emotions transforms the alphabet into a fun and engaging tool for building emotional literacy, self-regulation, […]
Myths and Truths: A Quick Guide to Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis
What is ABA and what does it do? Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely-discussed subject, particularly in the field of behavioral healthcare and educational support. While ABA has been notably successful in improving various behaviors, particularly in individuals with autism, it also has its share of critics and misconceptions. Let’s set the record straight […]
5 Practical Strategies for Self-Regulation for Preschoolers
Are you struggling to teach your preschoolers self-regulation skills? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many teachers and parents find it challenging to help little ones navigate their emotions and control impulsive behavior. Whether you’re creating behavior or social emotional IEP goals or just helping littles learn about emotions and social interactions, it can be tricky! […]
English Language Development for Students with Autism
Supporting English Language Development for Students with Autism As an educator or parent of a child with autism, you may be wondering how to best support their English language development. Communication is a critical skill that opens doors to learning, socializing, and independence. However, kids with autism often struggle with language comprehension, expression, and social […]
World Autism Awareness Day 2023
What’s your autism story? Happy Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day! Here’s our story! He was our first, we were young, early 20s, we didn’t know which way was up! Still in college and barely making ends meet, but we were thrilled! He was a perfect little bundle! Came a month early but healthy and strong. […]