Communication is a basic human right, and nonspeaking students should have access to tools that help them express themselves. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems, along with training for educators and caregivers, are essential for full participation in school and society. Free resources are available to support students and ensure communication goes beyond spoken words. Read More Supporting Nonspeaking Students on the Spectrum: Training Opportunities and Resources
Tis the Season for Gift Giving – Assistive Technology Style
We are in the season for giving and receiving gifts. Toys and games are on many holiday lists. Selecting gifts with Assistive Technology supports can help children be more engaged and play independently. Sometimes just a large knob, velcro, or audio support can make all the difference. Finding and acquiring toys and games which are… Read More Tis the Season for Gift Giving – Assistive Technology Style
VLA Walkthrough Look-Fors: There’s an HLP for That!
Beyond utilization of high-quality instructional materials, effective teaching strategies are essential for fostering student success. The purpose of the Virginia Literacy Act’s Literacy Walkthrough Tool is to support administrators, teachers, and reading specialists in the implementation of evidence-based literacy instruction to improve student learning. When aligned with Ceedar Center’s High Leverage Practices (HLPs), it is… Read More VLA Walkthrough Look-Fors: There’s an HLP for That!
Five Effective Approaches to Address Interfering Behaviors: Classroom Disruptions
Building Self-Regulation Skills and Supports How often do you observe classroom disruptions such as students being out of their seats unexpectedly, using objects like pencils or other items to tap, and making noises that seem disruptive or at the very least irritating? What about the students who frequently bump into others and have difficulty maintaining… Read More Five Effective Approaches to Address Interfering Behaviors: Classroom Disruptions
Five Effective Approaches To Address Interfering Behaviors: Attention-Seeking Behavior
Reframing Attention with Connection How many times have we observed loud and disruptive behavior in the classroom that we quickly labeled as attention-seeking? These behaviors occur when a student does something to get a response from another student or adult (Minahan & Rappaport, 2012). Unfortunately, this perspective alone may lead us to view the behavior… Read More Five Effective Approaches To Address Interfering Behaviors: Attention-Seeking Behavior
Five Effective Approaches To Address Interfering Behaviors: Student Apathy
Provide Voice & Choice “When students feel supported and have a sense of belonging, they are more likely to actively engage.” (Baker & Will, 2024) It is important for adults to remember that all behavior is communication – ours and our students’. Equally important is that we do not take student behavior personally, but rather… Read More Five Effective Approaches To Address Interfering Behaviors: Student Apathy
Five Effective Approaches To Address Interfering Behaviors: Excessive Talking with Peers
Dialogue by Design Off-task conversations can disrupt classroom instruction and constantly challenge teachers and their overall classroom management. While there are many effective routines for regaining the class’s attention and refocusing students on the lesson at hand, the most effective approaches are proactive. Talking and social learning are developmentally appropriate, especially for school-age learners (Wood,… Read More Five Effective Approaches To Address Interfering Behaviors: Excessive Talking with Peers
