Neurodivergent is an umbrella term coined by sociologist Judy Singer in 1998 to describe how a person’s brain functions or processes information differently compared to someone who is “neurotypical.” Although the term was originally used to describe individuals on the autism spectrum, the definition has broadened over the years to include individuals with ADHD, dyslexia, […]
Continue readingAccording to the CDC, autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the world. While it has become more of a part of our society, as of 2019, a vast majority of adults with autism are unemployed or underemployed. How do we change that? Building autism acceptance. It is All About Building Autism Acceptance Year Round The […]
Continue readingAdapted books, or any book that has been modified in some way (usually to improve accessibility), and interactive books, which require active participation by the reader, are helpful tools in the world of special education. Both adapted and interactive books are more engaging than traditional books, which means students will have a stronger desire to […]
Continue readingLearning how to play and socialize with others is a critical aspect of a child’s social-emotional development. For young children with special needs, this type of play may not come as naturally compared to their neurotypical peers. Difficulty learning how to play with others can be due to a range of factors, including but not […]
Continue readingAn IEP, or individualized education program, is a written plan describing a child’s current performance and unique instructional needs to help them achieve academic success. This individualized program consists of annual goals that help ensure the child’s needs are met and that any challenges they face are appropriately addressed. But what exactly should these goals […]
Continue readingThe role of executive function in the classroom is a current topic of interest among special education teachers and professionals. More often than not, children on the autism spectrum struggle with executive function processes and may even suffer from “executive function disorder.” Special education providers should be well-versed in the role of executive function in […]
Continue reading“Adaptive living skills” and “life skills” are often used interchangeably. However, there is a difference, especially in special education. Adaptive living skills often develop in early childhood. During this stage, children learn the concept of autonomy and begin to mimic those around them. Depending on the age of the child, they will start by learning […]
Continue readingThe pandemic has laid bare the fact that children’s mental health is a significant concern. After almost two years of an unpredictable global health crisis, many children are acting out in school and home. Some may be dealing with everyday stress, but some children may be struggling to manage a serious mental illness such as […]
Continue readingBuilding and maintaining social skills is an important part of everyday life. Being human means interacting with and developing understanding between other people. Socializing is often difficult for neurotypical people, but for those on the autism spectrum or with behavioral challenges, the social skills needed to get along with others may seem downright elusive and […]
Continue readingA panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear. During a panic attack, the brain misinterprets danger, and the “fight or flight” instinct takes over. A panic attack may be caused by a specific phobia or general anxiety. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV), identifies the following symptoms for panic attacks: Palpitations, pounding heart, […]
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