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 […]
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 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 […]
Accommodations vs. Modifications: Your Guide to Inclusive Classrooms (and Why It Matters!)
Have you ever wondered about the difference between accommodations and modifications in special education? Perhaps you’ve heard the terms thrown around in IEP meetings, or maybe you’re a teacher who needs to support students with diverse learning needs in your classroom. Fear not! Let’s break down these essential concepts, share practical strategies, and even delve […]
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 […]
Navigating the Holidays in Preschool and Special Education
The holiday season is a time filled with excitement, new experiences, and festive activities. For preschool and special education teachers, it presents unique opportunities to infuse joy into learning while being mindful of the challenges that some students may face. Navigating the holidays for special education can be fun and games or it can be […]
Essential Cognitive IEP Goals for Preschoolers: Nurturing Early Learning Success
Why are Cognitive IEP goals important for preschool special education students? Navigating the early years of education for a child with special needs requires a thoughtful approach to their individual learning style. Cognitive IEP goals are a cornerstone of this journey, creating a roadmap for success in preschool and on. Let’s look at the importance […]
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 […]