Attending Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings is one of the important ways that you help guide and monitor your child’s progress in school. The more you know about IEPs, the more you can contribute to a positive, constructive conversation with your child’s team at school. Being prepared can help you go into the meeting feeling […]
Continue readingWhat a Paraprofessional does to help special needs students.As I’m sure you know, special education is quite a bit different from the standard classroom environment. Teachers use a wide variety of materials, including multi-sensory and hands-on learning activities to help each child to reach his or her full academic potential. And, importantly, students require more […]
Continue readingThe Benefits of Special Needs PreschoolProviding opportunities for special needs students to attend preschool programs has demonstrated positive results for children, their families, and society. An analysis of data [GV1] by the Early Childhood Outcomes Center found over 75 percent of children who participate in special education preschool programs and services show “greater than expected […]
Continue readingThe past four months have felt like four years, and when our special needs daughter is done with ESY, we are taking a much-needed, socially-distanced family getaway. But while my family and I definitely need a vacation, we know it won’t be so relaxing for our daughter. For neurotypical family members, vacation can be a […]
Continue readingWhile a vacation can be a great chance for parents to unwind, it can be tough for the special needs child. With planning and flexibility, however, it really is possible to have a positive family vacation. Here are some tips for making it work. Keep it simple. Consider staying in one place rather than travelling around. […]
Continue readingYou are not alone during these challenging times.As a stepparent of a developmentally delayed son with autism, I don’t mind telling you I am struggling right now. The network of services we used to rely on to manage his care and education, from at-home ABA therapy to schooling to one blissful week of sleepaway summer […]
Continue readingIn response to Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 149, Harbor School will operate a “combination” ESY program this summer based out of it’s building on 240 Broad Street in Eatontown, NJ. The combination of services will include: 1) a continuation of remote learning through our Virtual Home Learning Plan (see Appendix) that has been in place […]
Continue readingWhat Is The Nurtured Heart Approach?According to the Children’s Success Foundation website, the Nurtured Heart Approach® (NHA) consists of a set of strategies that helps children of all ages in further developing their self-regulation. Anyone who cares for a child with challenging behaviors understands that traditional methods of discipline often fall short and may actually […]
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