My students’ disabilities include non-verbal, Autism, developmental delays and ADHD. It is very difficult to reach each of their specific needs when resources are limited. Students with these types of disabilities benefit greatly when these special teaching tools are incorporated into their daily learning. Many children with autism have difficulties processing information taken in through the senses. Therefore, by utilizing multi-sensory tools such as devices that offer various motion, lightning and music/sound, these students are better able to adapt to a learning style that suits them. Also, allowing them to learn through play - using playdoh, sand, puzzles, fidgets, a variety of hands-on learning tools such as arts and crafts projects, blocks and building tools -makes learning fun and non-threatening. It can also help with tactile sensitivity. Like other sensory processing issues, tactile sensitivity can range from mild to severe and can be worked through by introducing various textures and tools little by little.
Lastly, the use of an iPad can help immensely when trying to communicate with these types of students; especially those who are non-verbal. They are able to "show" what they know rather than "speak" what they know. Communication apps can be purchased with iTunes gift cards and will serve as the student's “voice”. This can decrease frustration when trying to convey their wants and needs, which, in turn, will promote a more positive learning environment for them.
All other items on my list are simply age-appropriate learning tools that can help me to reach my students’ individual learning styles, or items that will allow me to create this resource room that will be therapeutic and calming in nature. It will ultimately be a place where my student’s will look forward to coming to each and every day, and it’s where they WILL reach success!
About my class
My students’ disabilities include non-verbal, Autism, developmental delays and ADHD. It is very difficult to reach each of their specific needs when resources are limited. Students with these types of disabilities benefit greatly when these special teaching tools are incorporated into their daily learning. Many children with autism have difficulties processing information taken in through the senses. Therefore, by utilizing multi-sensory tools such as devices that offer various motion, lightning and music/sound, these students are better able to adapt to a learning style that suits them. Also, allowing them to learn through play - using playdoh, sand, puzzles, fidgets, a variety of hands-on learning tools such as arts and crafts projects, blocks and building tools -makes learning fun and non-threatening. It can also help with tactile sensitivity. Like other sensory processing issues, tactile sensitivity can range from mild to severe and can be worked through by introducing various textures and tools little by little.
Lastly, the use of an iPad can help immensely when trying to communicate with these types of students; especially those who are non-verbal. They are able to "show" what they know rather than "speak" what they know. Communication apps can be purchased with iTunes gift cards and will serve as the student's “voice”. This can decrease frustration when trying to convey their wants and needs, which, in turn, will promote a more positive learning environment for them.
All other items on my list are simply age-appropriate learning tools that can help me to reach my students’ individual learning styles, or items that will allow me to create this resource room that will be therapeutic and calming in nature. It will ultimately be a place where my student’s will look forward to coming to each and every day, and it’s where they WILL reach success!
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