In early intervention settings, Structured Play Groups are a perfect, developmentally-appropriate evidence-based practice for autistic students and can be a valuable support for developing friendships and communication skills. In my experience, the benefit of these groups certainly stretches beyond just my autistic students but those with other developmental disabilities and even their neurotypical peers! Especially in these unique post-pandemic lockdown times when all students have had gaps in their opportunities for social engagement. Play-Based Communication Boards To facilitate communication during structured play groups, I created communication boards with common play phrases in predictable locations and fringe words specific to the play activity including related labels, actions, and even descriptive words.  Each board was easy to implement because all I needed to do was print and laminate and they were ready to go! In my opinion, sometimes low-tech options are all you need!......

Download my FREE Calming and Alerting Sensory Cheatsheet! I look forward to connecting with you and sharing SpEd Spot tips and FREEBIES! Download the Sensory Cheatsheet Built with ConvertKit Did you know that research has shown that up to 88% of students with an identified disability have difficulty processing sensory input? Therefore, addressing sensory needs in the special education classroom is essential to ensuring students are ready to learn. In my classroom, I used a variety of whole group and individual sensory supports. Every day I had proactive supports embedded within our schedule. Then, during difficult moments when students were dysregulated, I could rely on these well-established strategies to provide additional support. Deep Breathing I love deep breathing to help myself calm when I am stressed. Often it was hard for my students to master this strategy because they would breathe too quickly or intensely (picture hyperventilating in a paper bag 😬). I created an i......

Download my FREE Being a Good Friend Social Story and Choices Sorting Mat! I look forward to connecting with you and sharing SpEd Spot tips and FREEBIES! Download the Social Story Built with ConvertKit As I have shared before, in the special education classroom student behaviors often stem from a deficit in social skills. If we only reactively address the behavior, then it will be hard to see lasting improvement. However, proactively addressing behavior concerns with social skills direct instruction can make a huge difference! Problem Scenario Circle or Carpet Time is often a time of the day when we see an increase in unexpected behaviors. Not only can students struggle with their own on task behaviors, but they can also have difficulty juggling social expectations as well.  Circle Time Social Skills Direct Instruction When teaching social skills (or any new skill really) I tend to follow the same sequence of steps: 1. Teach:  First, I teach the expected skill. Using ......