School-Based Behavior Support: From Whack-a-Mole to a System
“The loudest classroom gets the help.” If you work in school-based behavior support, you may recognize the pattern. The next student added to the caseload is not always the student with the greatest need. It may be the concern that arrived in an urgent email, the teacher who caught you in the hallway, or the […]
Build Conversation Skills with This Fun 20 Questions Game for Speech Therapy and Early Learners
Looking for a fun and functional way to build reciprocal conversation and support expressive and receptive language? This 20 Questions Game for speech therapy or special education is perfect for early learners, autism support, and anyone working on social communication goals. In this interactive activity, students pick a familiar item from a visual board (think: […]
Teaching Conversation Skills for Autism: Helping Students Make Contingent and Observation Statements
Why Do Some Students Struggle with Conversation Skills? Communication is essential for learning, socializing, and daily interactions. However, many special education teachers, BCBAs, and speech therapists struggle with teaching conversation skills for autism in natural settings. Learners may answer questions briefly but find it difficult to expand on ideas or keep a conversation going. For […]
Data Collection for IEP Goals: A Guide to Streamlining Progress Monitoring
This week, we enjoy a guest post by my podcast partner-in-crime, Caitlin Beltran, M.Ed., BCBA with Beltran’s Behavior Basics. Don’t forget to check her out! Great resources! Accurate and consistent data collection for IEP goals is at the heart of effective special education practices. It is a critical tool that helps us understand student progress, […]
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 […]
Managing Paraprofessionals in Special Education
Building Teamwork, Accountability, and Clear Boundaries Working with and managing paraprofessionals in special education (paras) is an essential part of running a successful classroom. Paras are the backbone of our programs, providing invaluable support to students. However, managing and leading a team of adults can come with its own set of challenges, right? In a […]
5 Tips for Preference Assessments in ABA and Special Education
When it comes to supporting special education students or others with diverse needs, accurate data collection is critical for developing effective behavior intervention plans and meeting IEP goals. One essential tool that special education teachers and behavior analysts rely on is the preference assessment. Let’s see how you can use preference assessments to streamline IEP […]
Do We Need an FBA? A Guide for Special Education Teams
In the world of special education, behaviors can range from minor disruptions to more significant challenges that impact a student’s learning and the classroom environment. But when does a behavior warrant a deeper investigation through a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)? The decision to initiate an FBA is not taken lightly, as it requires time, resources, […]
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 […]
5 Reasons to Use Daily Behavior Charts and Positive Reinforcement Systems in a Behavior Classroom
Managing behavior in a special education classroom can be challenging, but with the right tools, it becomes much more manageable and effective. One such tool that has proven invaluable is the use of daily behavior charts and communication sheets in special education classrooms. These resources not only help track and improve student behavior but also […]
5 Tips to Make an IEP Meeting Run Smoothly
So, you’ve got an IEP meeting coming up. Maybe you’re feeling a little anxious, maybe you’re feeling like a seasoned pro—either way, we all know that a well-run IEP meeting can be the difference between a smooth sail and a choppy sea. But don’t worry! With a little preparation, a sprinkle of positivity, and these […]
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 […]
Back to School Essentials: Interactive Calendar Activities for Special Education Morning Meeting
Morning meetings and circle time are essential for setting a positive tone and building community in any classroom, but they can be especially challenging to keep engaging and educational for students with special needs. Finding interactive calendar activities for special education morning meetings that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities can feel like searching […]