The standard classroom supplies go beyond binders, pens, and notebooks for special needs educators. Having calming sensory items and spaces to decompress can mean the difference between a productive day and a day hampered by triggers and meltdowns. We would like to share what we consider to be some must-have items and considerations for any […]
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The case for STEM in special educationSTEM, which stands for “science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” is creating new and exciting opportunities for students with special needs. The main goal of all educators is to ensure their student’s success by teaching them necessary life skills while cultivating their natural talents. Unfortunately, the current perspective on special […]
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Functional math is the equation for better independenceWe use math in our daily lives all the time to do important things like shop for groceries, pay bills, save for a big purchase, measure ingredients to prepare a meal, and get to work on time. Our ability to live as independent adults depends on our understanding […]
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On November 19th, 2021, Diane Gray, Supervisor of Instruction at Alpha School in Jackson, New Jersey, and Amy Brandon, Supervisor of Instruction at Harbor School located in Eatontown, New Jersey, presented at this year’s 43rd annual ASAH Conference. Ms. Gray and Ms. Brandon presented a workshop on incorporating STEM into the special needs classroom. What is […]
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The importance of Life SkillsLife skills are essential for everyone, but helping children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) learn these skills is especially crucial as it can help prepare them for the day-to-day challenges of participating in their community and workplace, and feeling independent at home. Life skills also serve the important function of preparing […]
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Planning for your kids’ future can be daunting, but parents of children with special needs must take a few extra steps to make sure their children will be taken care of in adulthood. The list below gives you an overview of the topics you should start thinking about and planning for. Be sure to fully […]
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Representation of neurodiverse characters on screen matters because it shows all kids that they are an integral part of our culture and not separate from it. Everyone deserves to see affirming visions of themselves in the culture around them. Atypical (2017-2021) is one example of a show streaming on Netflix right now that attempts to […]
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Planning for your kids’ future can be daunting, but parents of children with special needs must take a few extra steps to make sure their children will be taken care of in adulthood. If your child is or will be receiving government benefits, be sure that any money you bequeath in your will or any […]
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Children with autism and other special needs frequently engage in challenging behaviors, such as aggression, self-injurious behavior (SIB), and property destruction. These behaviors can range from skin-picking and slapping to head-banging, self-biting, punching, and kicking. Challenging behaviors negatively affect the whole family, and parents are struggling to properly care for loved ones who engage in […]
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