Guiding Kids Through Global Uncertainty

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The news can be particularly unsettling in these turbulent times, marked by myriad global conflicts that resonate within our communities. Even for adults, the daily news and breaking headlines have the power to shake our emotions and sense of security. But what about our children? How do we help them understand and process the complex events dominating the news cycle? It may seem like a challenging task, but as parents, there are strategies we can employ to guide our families through these tumultuous times.

For children aged six and under, negative news stories typically offer little value for their young, impressionable minds. Unless the news is an inspiring story of someone triumphing over adversity, it’s generally best to shield these youngsters from the news.

However, if your child stumbles upon the news while you’re not around, perhaps at school or a friend’s house, it’s essential to be open to their questions. Avoid dismissing their concerns or brushing off their worries.

If your child has already heard distressing news, redirect the conversation towards a more positive path by reassuring them that your family is safe. But if the news hits close to home, discuss safety measures and how to stay secure in various emergency situations such as severe weather, fire, or getting separated in a public place.

For younger children, wrap up the conversation by transitioning to a joyful, light-hearted topic. You could read a funny book together or enjoy your favorite family show. The key is to move the discussion away from potential negative thoughts and replace them with more pleasant ones.

As children age, they become exposed to various information, including current events and political topics. While you can’t shield them from everything, you should be mindful of their maturity and sensitivity when allowing them to engage with certain news topics. Pay special attention to filtering information about their age group, as issues like school violence or teen suicide can be particularly distressing for older elementary schoolers.

Consider implementing filters and restrictions on specific channels or websites and explain why certain content may be inappropriate to your children. Stress that it’s not about distrust or punishment but a way to protect them emotionally. Respect their questions and curiosity, and always highlight the positive news happening in the world around them.

Your own opinions play a significant role in shaping your child’s beliefs. Children trust and adopt their parents’ perspectives, so it’s crucial to be mindful of the messages you convey both at home and outside.

Avoid making sweeping generalizations that lump groups of people together, create divisions, or cast others in a negative light. Phrases like “they always…” or “we would never…” can slowly shape your child’s beliefs about entire groups.

By meeting your children where they are, emotionally and developmentally, and maintaining open lines of communication, you can help them navigate the news they encounter and make sense of the world around them. Empower your kids with the knowledge and emotional intelligence to thrive in today’s complex information landscape.

Shine Brighter in School

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Introduction: Dispelling the Dysgraphia Myth

Let’s debunk a common misconception about dysgraphia—it’s more than just messy handwriting. Dysgraphia is a profound learning disability rooted in processing challenges. Let’s delve into this world and understand how it impacts both the physical and mental aspects of writing.

Understanding Dysgraphia: The Quarterback Analogy

Imagine dysgraphia as a quarterback on a football field. Sometimes, it’s a struggle to handle the ball physically, and at other times, it’s the mental decision-making that’s challenging. In both cases, sensory input and output issues can hinder your child’s academic success.

Tackling the Physical Challenges: Strategies for Success

For young writers dealing with dysgraphia, writing can be a daunting task. However, there are strategies to help them thrive.

  1. Raised and Perforated Lines:

Consider using paper with raised or perforated lines to guide your child’s letter size and spacing. These tactile boundaries can be invaluable in keeping their writing neat. Encourage them to trace raised outlines to reinforce proper letter formation.

  1. Consistency is Key:

Teach your child to form letters consistently every time. Whether it’s the letter ‘C’ or ‘A,’ consistency builds muscle memory and improves writing over time. Reinforce the correct technique until it becomes second nature.

  1. The Right Tools:

Experiment with different pencil or pen shapes and styles. Rubber pencil grips can alleviate discomfort. Some kids find stability in hexagonal or three-sided pencils, while others prefer round ones. Find what works best for your child.

  1. Short and Sweet:

Writing can be frustrating, so keep practice sessions brief and focused. Avoid discomfort and frustration by taking breaks before hands and fingers become tired. Break down the goals—one step at a time. Today, focus on spacing, and tomorrow, tackle letter sizing.

Conclusion: Empowering Your Child

Dysgraphia may pose challenges, but armed with these strategies, you can empower your child to overcome them. Remember, every small writing victory is a significant step towards academic success.

Join us in celebrating your child’s unique journey in conquering dysgraphia—one letter at a time!

Discovering Kids’ Hidden Strengths

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Hey there, amazing parents! You’re the real superheroes when it comes to understanding your children inside out. From their quirks to their dreams, you’ve got it all covered. But let’s talk about something close to home: raising a child with a learning disability. We know it’s no walk in the park, but trust us, there’s a bright side!

ADHD: More Than Meets the Eye

Unlocking Hyperfocus 

Kids with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) might struggle with focus and impulse control, but they’ve got a secret weapon: hyperfocus! When they dive into a task, they can laser in like no other. Whether it’s sports, art, tech, or something else, they shine when they channel their energy.

Mastering Self-Awareness 

Navigating ADHD symptoms teaches kids to read their own attentiveness levels like pros. They’ve learned to think differently and become info-ninjas, zooming in on important details. This superpower makes them creative achievers.

 

Social Butterflies

Notice how chatty and friendly your kiddo is? That’s typical for kids with ADHD! Their verbal skills and vocabulary often soar above their peers. Storytelling, public speaking, and debating? They ace them all!

Dyslexia & Dysgraphia: Unleashing Creativity and Problem-Solving

Creative Geniuses 

Dyslexia challenges reading, but it unleashes a wave of creativity. These kids thrive in abstract thinking and holistic, “big picture” ideas. They’ve got a different kind of intelligence that’s equally amazing.

Problem-Solving Powerhouses 

Reasoning, problem-solving, and persistence are their strong suits. Dyslexic kids tackle challenges head-on and find ingenious solutions.

Dysgraphia’s Listening Skills 

Dysgraphia affects writing skills, but it sharpens listening prowess. These little conversationalists remember details like no one else, making them great storytellers and problem solvers.

In a nutshell, learning disabilities come with their own set of superpowers!  While they may face some hurdles, remember to look at the “glass half full” side. Your child’s unique ways of learning, understanding, and expressing themselves are major strengths. Embrace the journey, superhero parents!

#LearningDisabilities #ADHDStrengths #HyperfocusSuperpower #SelfAwareness #ADHDSocialSkills #DyslexiaCreativity #DysgraphiaProblemSolving #ListeningSkills #ParentingJourney #ChildrenWithSuperpowers #EmbraceUniqueness #SuperheroParents

Navigating the Journey of Dyslexia Advocacy

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October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month—a dedicated time to raise community awareness about learning disabilities and provide support for all children.

While awareness is crucial, parents of children with dyslexia are intimately familiar with their children’s day-to-day struggles. For these parents, another “A” word holds even greater power—advocacy.

As a parent, no one understands your child better than you do. In advocating for your child’s needs, it’s essential to recognize your unique role and the importance of being their strongest advocate. This blog will guide you through the process of advocating for your child with dyslexia, offering valuable insights, tips, and key information.

  1. Know Your Child’s Rights Under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA):

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), our nation’s special education law, children and their parents or guardians are guaranteed certain protections and rights. Once your child is identified as having a qualifying disability, schools are legally obligated to provide special education services. IDEA also grants parents procedural safeguards, ensuring they are informed and have a voice in every aspect of their child’s special education evaluation and IEP (Individualized Education Program) process. It’s crucial to understand these rights and the associated documentation thoroughly. Don’t hesitate to seek clarification before signing any documents.

  1. Stay Organized with a Binder:

An essential aspect of effective advocacy is staying organized. Maintain a binder containing all relevant documentation about your child’s diagnosis and evaluations. This should include test results, doctor’s notes, educator’s observations, report cards, writing samples, and academic skill data. This binder keeps essential documents organized and records progress and communication with your child’s educational team.

  1. Be Prepared for Special Education Meetings:

Being well-prepared for special education meetings is paramount. Your seat at the table matters because you know your child best. Prepare questions in advance and be ready to speak up if answers aren’t clear. Meetings often move swiftly, so don’t hesitate to request additional meetings for clarification. Taking notes during these meetings demonstrates your active involvement and commitment to your child’s special education services.

  1. Summarize and Follow Up via Email:

After special education meetings, send a summary email outlining the main discussion points and decisions. This ensures everyone is on the same page and provides an opportunity for clarification. If anything remains unclear, your email can initiate further conversation. Request follow-up meetings as needed to address any outstanding issues.

  1. Establish Clear Expectations:

Communicate with teachers about your expectations, your child’s expectations, and the school’s expectations. Prevent miscommunication and surprises by setting honest, positive, and realistic expectations for your child’s success. Maintain objectivity when receiving feedback from teachers and professionals to foster productive discussions.

In conclusion, October’s Learning Disabilities Awareness Month is an excellent opportunity to underscore the importance of advocacy for children with dyslexia. As a parent, you are uniquely positioned to champion your child’s educational journey. By understanding your child’s rights, staying organized, preparing for meetings, communicating effectively, and setting clear expectations, you can be the most effective advocate for your child’s success.

Keywords: Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, dyslexia, advocacy, parents, special education, IEP, individualized education program, educational rights, communication, expectations

 

Conquer the Sunday Scaries for a Stress-Free School Week

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🎒 Banishing the Sunday Scaries: A Guide for Elementary Schoolers and Parents 📚

Ah, the Sunday scaries – that feeling of dread that creeps in as the weekend winds down and the school week approaches. 🙈 Parents, teachers, and even little elementary schoolers aren’t immune to it. But fear not! We’ve got your back with some epic strategies to beat those Sunday scaries and kick off the school week like champions. 🌟

📌 Get Your Game Face On: Mastering Organization

Parents, in the early years, you’re the maestros of organization. 🎻 Lay out those clothes, pack that lunchbox, and prep for the action-packed week ahead. Gradually, your little ones will catch on and embrace these organizational skills like superheroes in training. 💪

🎈 Super Start: Help your mini-me check the weather and plan Monday’s outfit. Rain or shine, they’ll stride confidently into the week, ready to conquer whatever comes their way.

📋 Conquer Chaos: The Power of Checklists

Picture this: a weekend checklist that battles the chaos and tames the Sunday scaries. 🦸‍♂️ Get your family together and craft a game plan for the weekend tasks. Spread the load, and voila – you’ve defeated the stress monster.

📚 Wise Warrior Move: Prioritize tasks like homework and reading early on the checklist to avoid panic later.

🔮 Crystal Ball Gazing: The Art of Looking Ahead

Grab a cup of tea and settle in for some light Sunday night fortune-telling. 🔮 Peek at the week ahead and banish the fear of the unknown. Family appointments, school events, and everyone’s responsibilities – they’re all fair game.

⏰ Time Traveler’s Tip: Let your little legends take the reins. Teach them to decipher the week’s calendar and own their tasks. They’ll rock the week with newfound confidence! 🚀

Remember, the Sunday scaries are no match for your family’s supercharged strategies. 💥 So, get organized, rule those checklists, and peek into the future – because the school week is about to get schooled! 🎉

Wishing you fearless Sundays and soaring school weeks, 🚀

#BackToSchoolBliss #SundayScariesNoMore

 

🚀 Supercharge Back-to-School Success: Epic Study Hacks for Parents & Kids! 🎒🌟

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🎒 Get Ready to Rock Back-to-School: Boost Your Child’s Study Skills! 📚

Hey there, super parents! 🌟 It’s that time of year again – back-to-school vibes are in the air! 🎉 But hold on, we know it’s not all rainbows and unicorns. Some of our little champs might be feeling the study stress right from the get-go. 😓 Don’t you worry! Let’s team up to tackle those worries and set up some epic study strategies that’ll have your kiddos shining like stars 🌟 in no time. Buckle up, it’s time to dive into the world of study success! 💪

📝 Note-Taking Ninja Moves

Let’s talk notes, folks! 📝 Imagine your teacher dropping gems left and right – catch those golden nuggets! If she’s going on about “tone in writing” or throwing around “GDP” (that’s Gross Domestic Product, by the way 🏦), jot it down and dive into those topics like a champ. 🕵️‍♂️ Pro tip: be curious! Exploring these ideas on your own turns short-term memory into long-term awesomeness. You’ll remember stuff and connect the dots with other cool concepts. 🧠

🖍 Color Your Way to Genius

Highlighters, unite! 🌈 Sprinkle some color magic on your notes and study guides. History test coming up? Highlight dates in yellow, key peeps in green, and fancy words in pink. Keep the color code game strong across all your subjects – it’s like making your notes do the cha-cha! 💃 Color vibes help your brain remember things during tests and build a web of knowledge. Plus, it just looks plain cool. 🤓

📜 Write, Rewrite, Remember

Who knew rewriting stuff could be a power move? 🖋️ Copying notes by hand might seem old-school, but studies show it’s like giving your brain a high-five. ✋ The trick? Take it slow, chunk by chunk, and rewrite to your heart’s content. Less boredom, more brain power. 🚀

🧠 Mnemonic Magic

Ever heard of HOMES? 🏠 No, not where you live – it’s a trick to remember the Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior. And remember that “Raven”? It helps you ace affect (verb) vs. effect (noun). 📚 And spelling? Bam! “I before E except after C, or when it sounds like ‘hay’ as in neighbor or weigh.” 🎩 Mind blown, right? 💥

🎓 Teach Like a Pro

Picture this: a big math test looming. 📏 Wanna rock it? Teach those math marvels to a parent or sibling. 🤓 Explaining stuff to others checks your own knowledge – double win! Plus, teaching makes you an expert on the subject. It’s like getting paid in knowledge. 💰

🏰 Memory Palace Magic

Foreign language fears? Not anymore! 🌍 Enter the memory palace. Imagine your home sweet home or fave grocery store. 🏡 When you learn new words, pop ’em into your memory palace. You’ll be chatting in another language like a champ. 💬 “La cama” to “la cocina,” anyone? 🛏️🍳

🚀 Ready to Rock!

Alright, rockstar parents, you’re armed with study hacks to make even the toughest subjects feel like a walk in the park. 🎸 Time to cheer on your little legends and make this school year the best one yet. 💥 Stay awesome, keep the good vibes rolling, and let’s show those textbooks who’s boss! 🙌🎓

🚀 Launching a Rockstar Back-to-School Routine: Your Ultimate Guide!

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Hey there, super-parents and awesome kiddos! 🎉 Can you feel it? The school bells are ringing, and it’s time to switch gears from summer vibes to school-time swag. We know it’s not always easy, but fear not – we’ve got your back! 🚀 Let’s dive into the magical world of routines and make this school year the best one yet!

  1. Embracing Routine from Day One: The Toothpaste Trick 🦷

Imagine if you could put the toothpaste back in the tube! Well, starting a routine right from the get-go is like that – it keeps things smooth and avoids the mess. Let’s decode why kicking off with a cool routine is your secret weapon!

  1. The Benefits of a Set Routine: All Aboard the Success Train! 🚂

Guess what? Routines aren’t just for grown-ups. They’re like the superhero capes of the kid world! 🦸‍♂️ Discover all the rad perks that come with having a routine that rocks.

  1. Nurturing Healthy Habits: Steps to Kickstart a Successful Routine 🌈

Ready to get your groove on? Check out these wicked strategies to get your kid’s routine game strong:

– Set Clear Expectations ✨: Let’s make the rules crystal clear, so your kid knows what’s up. No more “But I didn’t know!” moments.

– Master Time Management ⏰: Time isn’t just a number – it’s your secret weapon. We’ll spill the beans on how to make time your BFF.

– Provide Essential Structure 🏰: Just like building a LEGO castle, having structure makes everything sturdy. Learn how to be the architect of your kid’s day.

– Reduce Anxiety with Predictability 😌: Say bye-bye to the jitters! Routines are like comfort blankets that chase away those anxious thoughts.

– Strengthen Bonds through Trust 🤝: Teamwork makes the dream work! Let’s chat about how routines can be the glue that sticks your fam together.

  1. Flexibility Amidst the Chaos: Adapting and Thriving 🌪️

Life’s a rollercoaster, right? But guess what – you’re the fearless rider! 🎢 Find out how to keep your routine cool, even when things go topsy-turvy.

  1. Practical Steps to Launch Your Routine: From Calendar to Collaboration 📅

Ready to rock? Let’s get hands-on:

– Create a Family Calendar 🗓️: Time to unleash your inner Picasso with a colorful family calendar. It’s like art and organization had a baby!

– Encourage Responsibility 🌟: Middle-school peeps, this one’s for you! Step into the spotlight by planning your own activities. 🎤

Conclusion: 🎈

Alright, legends, it’s go time! 🚀 As the new school year zooms in, grab the chance to create an epic routine. You’re the director of this blockbuster, and routines are your superstar actors. With a dash of flexibility and a sprinkle of fun, you’re all set for an unforgettable ride. Let’s make this year a routine-tastic adventure! 🌟🎒🚌📚

Autism Awareness Month

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April is also Autism Awareness Month. In an effort to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is important to both spread valuable information and to debunk common misconceptions. With diagnostic data indicating a rising rate of almost 1 in 70 births, it is likely that autism will affect someone that you know. 

An autism diagnosis will affect each member of the family differently.

Because of the time, money, and stress associated with treating and managing a child with an autism diagnosis, the entire family will experience the pressure in some way.

For instance, due to lack of knowledge on the topic, or misconceptions about ASD, parents or guardians may blame themselves for somehow contributing to the disorder. It is a natural instinct for parents to feel that they must shoulder the blame, but this is simply not the case. When the condition was first recognized in the 1940s, experts in the field of psychology believed that autism was an emotional disorder brought on by “detached” or unaffectionate caregivers. Psychologists thought that the child’s inability to socially connect was primarily due to parenting styles. While these theories surrounding children on the autism spectrum have long been discarded, parents sometimes still maintain a sense of guilt or responsibility.

Naturally, other siblings in the family may feel that the parents are focused more on the child with special needs. They may feel neglected or even act out to gain attention. Similarly, it is common for children with ASD to follow very specific routines, including sleeping and eating patterns. This may mean that the family’s meals and schedules revolve primarily on the child with special needs—again creating a sense of jealousy or competition amongst the other siblings in the household.

Early diagnosis and interventions are crucial.

According to autism-society.org, “The estimated lifetime cost of caring for someone with autism ranges from $1.4-2.4 million, but this cost can be reduced by two-thirds through early diagnosis and intervention.” Resources, such as behavior specialists and different nonmedical interventions provide numerous options for families that have encountered a recent autism diagnosis. The many options available—from art, music, and animal therapy—to applied behavior analysis allow families to take multiple approaches when it comes to treatment.

An autism diagnosis should not be a roadblock to independence in adulthood.

Too often, a developmental delay or disability of any kind is seen as an obstacle—a door that is closed. What many people do not know is that autistic children, while they do not grow out of the condition, go on to become successfully independent adults. Mainstream education is simply the beginning. A large percentage of students with ASD further their education after high school, earning degrees and preparing for the workforce. More and more, colleges are providing support for students with special needs. Everything from social skills and career readiness, to life skills and job placement, are provided on campuses.

Independent living and close social relationships are also a reality for many adults with ASD. Simply put, with the right interventions and supports, families managing an autism diagnosis have a plethora of supportive resources and options to help their children thrive and succeed.

Autism Awareness Month: In the Classroom

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April is Autism Awareness Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder may present itself in many different ways in and out of the classroom. In an effort to raise awareness and support for each and every student, it is important that educators are informed about Autism Spectrum Disorder and learn strategies to help our students feel comfortable and achieve success. With diagnostic data indicating a rising rate of almost 1 in 70 births, it is likely that this information will prove to be helpful in the classroom.

Because treating and managing a child with an autism diagnosis is often stressful and nerve-wracking for parents, it is common for parents to be more involved and hands-on in many aspects of the child’s education. Especially when transitioning into a new class or school, parents, too, will likely need some extra TLC and reassurance to ease the stress of acclimating their child into a new environment.

Plan to maintain consistent and positive communication with parents of your students with special needs. Be sure to ask parents about successful strategies that they implement at home. As much as possible, reinforce these practices in your classroom. The more consistency that your students experience, the better. Remember that, as always, parents are your biggest assets when finding ways to best serve your students.

Maintaining a stress-free environment is always the goal. However, this is especially important when considering the needs of a student with an autism diagnosis. Stress, loud noises, commotion, or unexpected changes in the routine can totally throw students for a loop. Students on the spectrum are usually most comfortable when routines are maintained and expectations are met. If you are planning a collaborative group activity, a boisterous lesson, or anything that strays drastically from the norm, consider how your student may react. Being proactive as opposed to reactive can mean the difference between a good day and a bad day for your student.

Plan assignments and activities that generate positive self-esteem and celebrate every student’s unique talents. Too often, when we hear of a diagnosis or condition, our minds jump straight to the hurdles—“such and such is more difficult for so-and-so.” Instead, consider how to highlight your student’s unique strengths and hidden talents. Student choice is the best practice as is, but be sure to keep an open mind and truly tap into the interests of your students with special needs.

Providing encouragement while maintaining your perspective is not always a simple task when dealing with a student’s strengths and weaknesses. What we consider to be supporting, praising, or reassuring may actually come across quite differently, depending on a student’s social perceptions. Some students with ASD are not comfortable with any sort of recognition or attention—giving this type of attention, no matter how positive, may cause unnecessary distress. It is also possible that constructive criticism or suggestions could be taken more negatively than intended. Thus, we must be cognizant of student sensitivities and preferences when providing praise or suggestions for improvement.  

Autism Awareness Month: Advice for the Classroom

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April is Autism Awareness Month. One of the more mysterious developmental disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder presents itself in many different ways from child to child. In an effort to raise awareness about the many learning styles of students with autism and effectively support them, it is important that educators receive valuable, current information and strategies to help empower students in the classroom. With diagnostic data indicating a rising rate of more than 1 in 70 births, it is likely that this information is vital for parents and educators.

No two students with autism are alike. This disability is unique in the sense that it manifests differently from person to person. The age of onset varies, as well, with most children exhibiting symptoms by age three. However, there are some consistent findings: boys are almost four times more likely to have autism, and language regression and sensory sensitivity are often the first reported signs or symptoms.

Because early intervention is paramount for treating and managing an autism diagnosis, students in your classroom that are affected by autism are likely to have certain routines or practices already in place. The key then becomes streamlining the successful practices and strategies from home into the classroom environment. Be proactive when asking parents about successful strategies that they implement at home. Be sure to make contact with families early in the school year to ensure that the classroom transition is smooth. As much as possible, reinforce the successful practices from home in your classroom. The more consistency that your students experience, the better. Parents are a teacher’s greatest assets when finding ways to best serve your students.

Plan to maintain consistent and positive communication with parents of your students with special needs. Parents of a child with autism may be hesitant or anxious about their child’s acclimation to a new classroom environment. This is 100 percent understandable, as some past experiences may have been unfortunate or stressful for the child. Put parents at ease by maintaining a communicative relationship—one based on positivity and growth. Of course, weekly reports may vary in positivity, but remember to lead with the pros. What did the student do well this week? What growth have you seen of late? What social milestones did you witness in class or at recess? And so on.

Since students with autism frequently experience a sensitivity to sensory stimuli, teachers should be sure to maintain a calm and consistent environment. This is much easier said than done, however. A classroom of 35 boisterous children does not necessarily lend itself to calm and consistent. In an effort to best accommodate your students with special needs, consider keeping a cozy corner or quiet spot in the classroom. Use cushions, pillows, and bookcases to create a somewhat private “cool down” area if a student is experiencing stress from the classroom. Bright lights or darkness, loud noises, commotion, or unexpected changes in the routine, like a fire drill, can totally throw students with sensory sensitivity for a loop. Students on the spectrum are most comfortable when routines are maintained and expectations are met. So consider giving your student a heads-up if the daily norm is going to be disrupted. Knowing what is to come is immensely helpful for students that rely on continuity.

Be careful about praise, criticism, and sarcasm. Generally speaking, sarcasm should be avoided in the elementary classroom because of the students’ inability to read those cues. However, with students on the spectrum, sarcasm and dry humor can be even more confusing or misleading. Similarly, comments of support, praise, or reassurance may actually come across quite differently, depending on a student’s social perceptions. Be careful when recognizing a student’s achievements. Some may loathe the limelight and attention. If you know that your student is particularly shy, consider writing him a congratulatory letter, or recognizing his accomplishment in a small group of his friends.