schedules

  • Blog, schedules

    I’m Questioning Life Choices? I Work With Learning Disabilities?

    Questioning-Choices-and-Decisions
    Being a Mom of special needs and Special Education Teacher is a lot!

    Questioning My Life Choices!

    Sipping coffee and questioning all my life choices! I am a special education teacher and mother of two boys. The youngest of which has a leaning disability, autism. Why did I think it was a good idea to become a special education teacher and then come home to a special needs child?☕️

    To be honest, I just needed to feel I was doing something positive that would benefit my son. On those days when we were home and I was trying to teach him to read and all the things before I became a teacher, I thought, who is going to work this hard to make sure he gets it? I guess you know the answer, me! I’m going to work that hard and you can too! No special degree required. 🤦‍♀️

    Unlocking Potential

    In a world where education is key to success, it is disheartening to see individuals with learning disabilities face challenges in unlocking their full potential. However, with the right strategies and resources, it is possible to provide the support necessary for these individuals to thrive.

    This post delves into the realm of learning disabilities, exploring effective strategies and valuable resources that can make a significant difference in the lives of those with these challenges. From personalized learning plans and schedules to specialized teaching methods, we will uncover the tools and techniques that empower individuals with learning disabilities. 📚

    A-little-planning-goes-a-long-way
    Jacob has sensory friendly clothes, school work in zippered bags and headphones!

    Let’s shed light on the best practices and approaches for supporting individuals with learning disabilities. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or caregiver, this blog post will equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to help unlock the potential of those with learning disabilities.

    Join us on this journey as we discover the power of understanding, empathy, and supportive strategies in enabling individuals with learning disabilities to reach their full potential.

    Understanding learning disabilities

    Learning disabilities are like solving a puzzle in the dark: challenging but not impossible! They’re not about intelligence, just a different way of processing information. Let’s decode the signs and strategies to support individuals with these unique abilities.🧠🧩

    Signs and symptoms of learning delays

    Detecting learning disabilities is like spotting clues in a detective movie . Look out for slow reading, spelling mysteries, and mathematical riddles. And don’t forget the attention to detail: struggles with organization, time management, and memory can be telltale signs! With Jacob it was obvious he had a learning disability because of the lack of language, sensory issues and his need for sameness.🕵️‍♂️

    1. Difficulty understanding and following instructions.
    2. Slow reading or difficulty reading aloud.
    3. Poor spelling and grammar.
    4. Inconsistent or inaccurate mathematical calculations.
    5. Difficulty organizing thoughts or expressing ideas in writing.
    6. Inattention, distractibility, or hyperactivity.
    7. Poor memory or difficulty retaining information.
    8. Struggles with time management and organization.

    Strategies for Success

    Cracking the code of learning disabilities requires a multi-tool approach. Personalized learning plans, multi-sensory instruction, and assistive technologies are like secret weapons in our toolkit. With a little creativity and a lot of patience, we can decode the challenges and unlock the potential within!🛠️

    Assistive technologies for learning disabilities

    Assistive technologies are like sidekicks in the superhero squad! Text-to-speech software, graphic organizers, and mind mapping tools level the playing field, making learning more accessible for everyone. With these gadgets in hand, individuals with learning disabilities can conquer any academic quest!🦸‍♀️

    Accommodations-Student-Support
    Students with Learning Disabilities will likely need Accommodations.
    Accommodations and modifications in the classroom

    Classrooms that provide appropriate accommodations and modifications can create an environment where students with learning disabilities can thrive. Here is a previous post that might help: The best schoolwork jobs and schedules for students at home in 2023! Here are some examples of accommodations and modifications in the classroom:

    1. Extended Time: Allowing extra time for completing assignments, tests, and exams can alleviate the pressure on students with learning disabilities.
    2. Preferential Seating: Placing students with learning disabilities in close proximity to the teacher can help minimize distractions and facilitate better focus.
    3. Visual Supports: Providing visual aids, such as charts, diagrams, and graphic organizers, can enhance understanding and retention of information.
    4. Chunking and Breaking Tasks: Breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help students with learning disabilities approach assignments and projects more effectively.
    5. Alternative Assessments: Offering alternative assessments, such as oral presentations or projects, can provide students with learning disabilities an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a format that suits their abilities.

    Resources for parents of individuals with learning disabilities:

    Jacob and I both benefit from the Autism Society of NC. Check them out if you are in NC. https://www.eventbrite.com/o/autism-society-of-north-carolina-6867453005

    Navigating the journey of learning disabilities is like embarking on a grand adventure. Parent support groups, educational advocacy organizations, and online workshops are like trusty maps, guiding us through uncharted territories. With these resources in hand, we can navigate the twists and turns with confidence!🚀

    Support services and organizations for individuals with special needs

    Various support services and organizations are dedicated to assisting individuals with learning disabilities. These organizations provide valuable resources, support, and advocacy for individuals and their families. Here are some notable support services and organizations:

    1. The Arc: The Arc is a leading organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They offer a wide range of services, including education, employment, and community support.
    2. National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD): NCLD is a trusted resource for individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and educators. They provide information, advocacy, and support through their website, programs, and publications.
    3. Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA): LDA offers resources, support, and advocacy for individuals with learning disabilities. They provide educational materials, conferences, and training programs for parents, educators, and professionals.
    4. Council for Exceptional Children (CEC): CEC is an international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with disabilities. They offer resources, publications, and professional development opportunities for educators and professionals.
    Conclusion: Empowering individuals with learning disabilities
    C onsistant Action forward A lways Celebrate Wins L earning to Create Schedules M indset
    C.A.L.M.-Consistent Action Forward, Always Celebrate Wins, Learn to create schedules!, Mindset.

    Unlocking the potential of individuals with delays is like discovering hidden treasure: exhilarating and rewarding! By fostering understanding, providing support, and embracing diversity, we can create a world where everyone’s unique abilities are celebrated and valued. Let’s embark on this journey together, unlocking the endless possibilities that lie within!💎#Autism Challenges🧩

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    3 Tips for dealing with Covid and your child.#Autism Challenges🧩

    COVID and Autism Schedules

    Covid and autism schedules
    Mom is always there; she has COVID-19, now what?

    Okay, so here we go again. I’m down with Covid once more. Covid and autism schedules are hard when you’re sick. Attempting to quarantine myself to prevent anyone else from falling ill, but Jacob doesn’t quite grasp the concept. He’s eager to burst into my room with his repertoire of movie quotes or to share his latest Amazon wishlist item. Thank goodness for the marvels of modern technology, allowing us to order groceries online and swing by for contactless pick-up. I’ve stocked up on all of Jake’s essentials, but I seriously need a guard dog or a lock on my door. Even my poodle, loyal as she is, is more into playtime than patrol duty.😷👦🏼🧩

    A schedule helps when you get Covid!

    Tip 1: Embrace Online Grocery Shopping

    Covid and autism schedules
    During sickness like Covid stick to a schedule with kids!

    My first tip? Embrace the wonders of online grocery shopping. Find a convenient store that allows you to order online and pick up your groceries without leaving your car. Harris Teeter our favorite grocery store, has drive thru pickup. Covid, did not beat us here! Alternatively, services like Insta cart can deliver groceries straight to your doorstep. It’s a game-changer, trust me. 🛒💻

    Jacob has inventory of all his favorite staples and always tells me what to get on my way out the door! We have started taking him for a weekly grocery store trip just for him! Peanut butter, cereal and milk and Harris Teeter’s chocolate chip cookies. 🍪

    Master the Art of Quarantine

    Tip 2:

    Covid and autism schedules
    Covid Quarantine Zone- Off Limits! Lock the door if you have to!

    Secondly, quarantine like a pro. Social stories that you can give to help the child understand to stay away when someone is sick with Covid. https://autismlittlelearners.com/autism-little-learners-covid-social-stories/ Learn from my mistakes and ensure that your quarantine zone is strictly off-limits. Unfortunately, my attempts at barricading the door were futile, and Jacob made himself right at home. Coming in and grabbing my iPad to show me what he wanted from Amazon. Make sure your space is off-limits and enlist the help of family members to enforce the rules.🔒🚫

    Stick to Routine

    Tip 3:

    Thirdly, stick to your routine. If you’re lucky enough to have your child on a schedule, routines are a lifesaver. Covid and autism schedules? Covid is not as bad with a child who already has a schedule laid out! Need help with that? Check out this post: 3 Ways Jacob’s Monthly Calendar and Daily Schedule Work on Autism Island! Not only do they give you the rest you need to heal, but they also provide a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos. And don’t forget to stock up on essentials like ibuprofen and Alka Seltzer Cold and Flu to help you weather the storm.⏰🔄 Here’s another blogger on schedules: https://www.healthline.com/health/visual-schedule-autism

    Stay Prepared and Stay Strong

    In times like these, preparation is key. Having Jake’s weekly work organized in zippered bags and his clothes laid out for the week has been a game-changer. This solved the problems of being sick with Covid and having to worry about schedules for autism. It takes the guesswork out of our daily routine and gives me the peace of mind I need to focus on getting better.💪🧼

    Here’s a helpful resource I stumbled upon that offers tips on managing schedules during remote learning: [Remote Learning Round-Up: Schedules & Routines]. https://medium.com/swlh/remote-learning-round-up-schedules-routines-30c08ea0dde2

    Stay healthy, stay safe, and remember to take care of yourself, too.

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    Help! 3 Ways a schedule can help sensory issues and communication barriers? #Autism Challenges🧩

    Ever felt like a detective trying to crack the case of your child’s meltdown? You may need to try sensory-friendly schedules. Welcome to the world’s quirkiest puzzle, where flickering lights, itchy shirts, and vacuum cleaner roars can trigger an emotional rollercoaster. Sensory sensitivities team up with communication barriers, leaving us feeling like we need a superhero cape. 🦸‍♀️🕵️‍♂️

    Example of Jacob's schedule
    Here’s and example of things on Jacob’s schedule.

    Sensory-friendly schedules 📅

    The first superhero of parenting: the schedule! When Jacob’s world feels like it’s spinning out of control, a visual schedule swoops in to save the day. With clear expectations and a roadmap for his day, Jacob finds comfort in the chaos. From school work to chores, the schedule guides him through, offering a sense of security and predictability. And when sensory overload strikes, the schedule becomes a lifeline, helping us navigate the storm before it hits. 🌪️⏰

    Empowering Independence: With a sensory-friendly schedule as their trusty guide, children gain independence and confidence in navigating their world. From choosing sensory-friendly clothes to managing their daily routines, the schedule equips them with the tools they need to thrive despite their challenges.🌟🚧 

    Read more about schedules: How can using schedules can change your child’s life?

    Sensory-Friendly Breaks: Keeping Calm  🧩

     Second in our toolkit of sanity savers, sensory breaks reign supreme. Whether it’s fidgets, sensory bins, or noise-canceling headphones, these magical tools turn meltdowns into moments of calm. Jacob’s favorite? His trusty headphones, shielding him from the dreaded vacuum cleaner roar during cleaning sessions. And when it’s playtime, it’s all about hands-on activities like playdoh, legos, and puzzles, offering a welcome escape from the sensory whirlwind. 🧩🎧

    Sensory Sanctuary: A visual sensory-friendly schedule offers a safe harbor amidst sensory storms, providing structure and predictability in a chaotic world. It guides children like Jacob through their day, offering comfort and security when sensory overload strikes.🆘🕒 

    Need more help with sensory? Read here: Tired and Frustrated Mom! Sensory Challenges for the Autism Spectrum

    Mastering the Clothes Conundrum: A Sensory-Friendly Solution 👕

    How-using-schedules-can-change-your-life2
    Using schedules for Jacob to understand his days changed our lives!

    Ah, the age-old battle of clothes selection! With Jacob’s clothes schedule in hand, we’ve cracked the code to stress-free dressing. Planning ahead ensures we have soft, sensory-friendly schedule options ready for action. Weekdays are all about functionality, while weekends offer a chance for Jacob to flex his fashion muscles and choose his own adventure. It’s a win-win for everyone! 👖👚

    If you need more help with a clothes schedule go to this post: “How to create a personalized schedule for children with autism”

    Breaking Down Communication Barriers: The Schedule’s Secret Weapon 🗣️

    But wait, there’s more! Third, the visual schedule doesn’t just tame sensory storms; it also breaks down communication barriers. When Jacob feels overwhelmed and a meltdown looms large, words become scarce. https://autismclassroomresources.com/visual-schedules/ But with the schedule as our trusty guide, we bridge the gap between chaos and clarity. With each routine task and scheduled activity, Jacob finds his voice again, transforming meltdowns into moments of connection. 🗝️💬

    Communication Catalyst: When emotions run high and words fail, the schedule becomes a lifeline, bridging the gap between chaos and clarity. Routine tasks and scheduled activities empower children to find their voice again, transforming meltdowns into moments of connection, allowing them to have independence.👥🗣️

    schedule-fun-jacob-is-the-hulk-barnes-and-noble
    Jacob having fun at Barnes and Noble after a week of completed work!

    So, fellow parent detectives, when the sensory storms hit and the meltdowns loom large, remember: humor is your secret weapon. With a dash of laughter and a sprinkle of patience, we’ll navigate the quirkiest puzzles together, one meltdown at a time. #AutismChallenges🧩

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    No Schedule for Jacob to Use This Week? No Peace! Autism Challenges 🧩

    The Importance of Managing Autism Routines and Schedules 🧩

    We all have off days or weeks, and I’m no different. At the beginning of this journey, I didn’t have routines or scheduled activities for Jacob. I just didn’t know any better. We have to be able to manage autism routines when our children are not able to manage their day without meltdowns or chaos.

    But now that I do, I understand the importance of always having a schedule and plans for Jacob. With consistent routines, the chaos is gone. 🌟

    managing autism routines with schedules, day by day roadmap
    Roadmap to success! Use a schedule. Be consistent, celebrate all wins!

    The Power of the Schedule

    managing autism routines with schedules, Jacob's clothes need to be on the schedule
    Pack the sensory friendly clothes, work and headphones!

    📅 We know that schedules help keep down anxiety, aid with emotional regulation, and help Jacob enjoy his day, just to name a few of the huge benefits. So, what happens when I’ve had a yucky day, and now it’s time to fill the zipper bags for the weekly work? Or, I didn’t put the haircut, manicure, and pedicure on the monthly schedule, and now it’s needed, and I’m not in the mood to complete these tasks???

    Managing Unplanned Changes

    📆 Well, normally I can just show him the monthly calendar and add the haircut to the following day, and he’s okay with that. But if the nails are too long and bothering him, he will probably pick at them. This can be a big problem because Jacob easily gets ingrown toenails, and he will pick if it’s bothering him. See this previous post:3 ways to help your child on the autism spectrum navigate doctor visits more smoothly

    managing autism routines with schedules, Jakes manicures need to be on the schedule
    Jacob’s big toe became infected due to picking at skin around toenail that was bothering him.

    Managing Autism Routines

    🔧 Now, I just caused a major problem because I didn’t have my act together today. That’s just one example of life falling apart because I just let the schedule go and didn’t do my part. Also, if it’s not done and I’m grumpy because he’s not handling his day well, then I also know it’s partly my fault. Now, if I can fix and get us back on track, then, of course, I do.

    🔄 If, however, he spirals into an emotional meltdown and dances on everyone’s last nerve and gets in trouble before I can course correct, then I have to punish him by taking away his ability to buy his Amazon purchase at the end of the week for completing work and having a great week.

    Consistency Is Key

    🚫 If I’m not consistent in rewarding good behavior and holding back rewards when he hasn’t stayed in check, then the whole system breaks down.

    🤷‍♀️ Now, if I have to punish by not allowing the Amazon purchase he’s supposed to get on Friday, I feel incredibly guilty because I know I could have helped him more by having that schedule and work in place to guide his week.

    📝 Sometimes though, life gets in the way. You start thinking he’s so used to the schedule he’ll be alright for one day. Maybe you just plain forget because you’re tired or sick. Just self-correct as soon as possible and get on track so your child is set up for success. Because you don’t want to carry guilt that you could have possibly prevented the whole scenario!

    Give Yourself Some Grace

    💖 Give yourself some grace. Remember if you don’t have a plan for your child, they will have one for you!

    So, let’s keep those schedules in check and ensure our days are filled with structure and peace.

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