In this episode of Autism Academy 360, we sit down with Speech-Language Pathologist Ashley Bird to explore the world of gestalt language processing. Ashley sheds light on what it means to be a gestalt language processor—a unique way some individuals, especially children with autism, learn and use language. Rather than picking up words one by one, gestalt language processors often acquire language in chunks or “gestalts,” which can show up as echolalia or scripting.Ashley discusses the characteristics that teachers and parents might notice in children who are gestalt language processors, including behaviors that are often misunderstood. We dive into how echolalia can be a powerful communication tool and a crucial stepping stone toward more independent language use, as well as practical strategies teachers and parents can use to support these children in the classroom and at home.Ashley also tackles common misconceptions about gestalt language processing, providing insights on how we can better understand and support these unique learners. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or caregiver, this episode offers valuable tools and perspectives for supporting meaningful communication and growth in children who process language differently.Connect with Ashley:Instagram: @ashleybellebird Additional Resources:Meaningful SpeechChild Led SLPConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Hollady tackles a common challenge in special education classrooms: elopement behaviors. Lisa breaks down elopement as actions students might take to avoid tasks or instructions and highlights the value of collecting ABC (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence) data to understand what drives these behaviors. She shares five practical strategies to reduce and manage elopement, like teaching students to request breaks, using visual schedules, offering choices, preparing students for transitions with timers, and using differential reinforcement. Each strategy aims to support students in a positive, structured way, making the classroom a safe, productive space for everyone.

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, we dive into the key differences between breaks and rewards and how they can both play a critical role in managing classroom behaviors. For many students, especially those with autism, understanding when to use breaks and when to offer rewards can be a game-changer in maintaining a calm, productive learning environment.We'll explore how breaks serve as an essential tool for preventing meltdowns by allowing students to regulate their emotions, and how rewards help reinforce positive behaviors, motivating students to keep moving forward. You’ll learn why both strategies are important and how they can be used in tandem to support students' individual needs.Plus, we’ll give practical tips for balancing these approaches in real-life classroom scenarios, helping teachers create a structured, supportive environment that encourages positive behavior and self-regulation. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, this episode will provide insights and actionable strategies to help you manage behaviors more effectively.Resources MentionedToken boardsBehavior contractsConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In episode 42 of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Hollady shares 12 practical tips for teaching students with autism in a general education setting. The episode emphasizes the importance of reducing sensory overload, establishing structured routines, and offering visual supports. Teachers are encouraged to use clear language, give limited choices, and explicitly teach rules and social skills. Incorporating students' special interests and providing breaks helps to enhance engagement. Overall, the episode provides strategies that promote inclusion, patience, and flexibility in the classroom to help students with autism thrive.

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, we dive into preventative strategies to help teachers and parents manage behavior on the bus for kids with autism. We know how challenging transitions can be, especially during bus rides, so this episode is packed with practical tips to create a calmer, safer environment. From using visual schedules and teaching clear expectations to implementing positive reinforcement like Bus Bucks, we cover how to set students up for success.You’ll also learn ways to keep kids engaged during the ride with sensory-friendly activities and how to respond calmly when behavior challenges arise. These strategies are designed to prevent problems before they start, making bus rides a smoother experience for everyone. Tune in for actionable insights that can make a real difference on the bus!Resources Mentioned:Bus VisualsConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

 In this episode of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Holladay shares valuable insights on setting up a structured work area in inclusion classrooms. Drawing from her extensive experience in special education, Lisa explains the importance of creating an organized and accessible environment that meets the needs of both general education and special education students. Lisa outlines key strategies for establishing a structured worktable, minimizing disruptive transitions, using multipurpose visual supports, implementing efficient storage solutions, and incorporating all-inclusive core boards. With practical examples from her own classroom, Lisa emphasizes the significance of collaboration, flexibility, and thoughtful organization in fostering a productive learning environment.

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Hollady dives into the importance of creating a calm-down corner in classrooms for students who struggle with emotional regulation. Lisa shares 10 practical and easy-to-implement ideas to help students calm down, reset, and return to learning. From comfortable seating to mindfulness tools and personalized calm-down kits, these strategies create a peaceful and supportive environment for all learners. Tune in to discover how to make your classroom safe for emotional growth and regulation.Resources Mentioned:Mindfulness Apps for Kids:Headspace for Kids: HeadspaceCalm: CalmBoth apps offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises tailored for children.Fidget Tools and Sensory Items:Fidget Tools for Kids: A variety of fidget tools and sensory items can be found at SensoryToolbox.Weighted Blankets: Information on the benefits and types of weighted blankets can be found at Weighted Blankets.Reflective Journaling Resources:Emotion-Themed Worksheets: Free downloadable worksheets can be found at Teachers Pay Teachers.Mindfulness Journals: Printable mindfulness journals can be found at Mindful Schools.Calming Sounds:Nature Sounds Playlist: Check out calming nature sounds on YouTube, such as Relaxing Nature Sounds.White Noise Machines: Recommendations for white noise machines can be found at Sleep Foundation.

In this episode, Abby dives into responsive behavior strategies and how to repair relationships with students after behavioral incidents. She shares her top tip—always focus on mending the relationship after a behavior, no matter the severity. Abby outlines key steps for post-behavior conversations, including letting students share their side, naming emotions, and discussing alternative actions. She also highlights the importance of timing and self-regulation for teachers.If you’re looking for practical advice on managing classroom behaviors and building stronger connections with students, this episode is packed with actionable insightsResources Mentioned:Think SheetsConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, we dive into the essentials of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs). We explain what FBAs and BIPs are, why they are crucial for understanding and addressing challenging behaviors in children with autism, and how these tools work together to create effective, individualized behavior support strategies. Whether you're a teacher or a parent, you'll gain practical tips on participating in the FBA process, developing and implementing BIPs, and fostering consistency between home and school environments. Tune in to learn how these powerful tools can make a difference in your child's or student's behavior and learning experience.Resources Mentioned:ABC Data SheetConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

Episode summary: In this episode, we dive into managing disrespectful behaviors in the classroom and how educators can shift their mindset to better support students. Instead of viewing rude or challenging actions as personal attacks, we explore strategies to understand these behaviors as a form of communication. From fostering empathy and maintaining consistent expectations to using de-escalation strategies and focusing on relationship-building, this episode provides practical tips to create a more positive learning environment and help students navigate their emotions.Episode Highlights:Mindset Shift: Learn how understanding student behavior as communication can reduce stress and improve classroom dynamics.Empathy and Consistency: Explore how empathy and consistent expectations can help address challenging behaviors effectively.De-escalation Strategies: Discover key techniques to calm tense situations and prevent power struggles.Relationship-Building: Understand the importance of building strong connections with students before attempting to correct behavior.

In this episode, we’re breaking down preference assessments—those handy tools that help figure out what really motivates students, especially those with special needs. We chat about different ways to discover what kids love, from simple interviews to observing their choices in real-time. By collecting this info, teachers can create a preference hierarchy, which is just a fancy way of ranking what kids enjoy most so they can use those favorites to encourage positive behavior.We also share some practical tips for getting the most accurate results, like keeping things consistent and offering a variety of choices. Plus, we tackle common hiccups, like when kids aren’t interested in what’s offered or get overwhelmed by too many options, and how to work around those challenges. This episode is all about making behavior management smoother and more effective by truly understanding what makes each student tick.Resources Mentioned:Preference AssessmentRelated Podcast Episodes:Episode 11: Understanding the Functions of BehaviorConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa Hollady discusses the powerful role visuals play in both our everyday lives and the classroom. From driving directions to restaurant menus, visuals help guide us through various tasks without overwhelming us. Lisa emphasizes how visuals can support students with Autism and benefit all learners by creating independence and reducing frustration from verbal overload. Episode Highlights:Visuals help navigate everyday tasks like driving, shopping, and ordering food.Over-reliance on verbal directions in the classroom can overwhelm students, leading to frustration and negative behaviors.Classroom visuals such as labeled materials, turn-in bins, and task lists promote independence and reduce the need for constant reminders.Visual supports can also streamline home routines, with an example of how a bedtime visual schedule drastically reduced negative behavior.

In this episode, we chat about Behavior Skills Training (BST) and its critical role in equipping educational teams to effectively support students with autism. BST is broken down into four key components: Instruction, Modeling, Rehearsal, and Feedback. We start by explaining the significance of BST in developing and maintaining effective teaching strategies. The Instruction phase is highlighted for its importance in providing clear and concise directions, using visuals, and demonstrating materials. The Modeling phase emphasizes showing specific behaviors or techniques with either students or adults.Next, the Rehearsal phase is defined as the opportunity for team members to practice new skills, with suggestions for creating these practice opportunities. The Feedback phase is discussed for its crucial role in offering constructive and supportive feedback to improve performance. We also address common challenges teams might face, such as time constraints and comfort levels, and provide solutions to these issues. The episode concludes with a summary of the key points, reiterating the importance of each BST phase in fostering a well-trained, cohesive educational team.Connect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

Episode summary: In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa Hollady delves into the importance and implementation of visual supports in special education classrooms. Visual supports play a crucial role in enhancing communication, easing transitions, and creating a smoother daily routine for students. Lisa outlines the benefits of visual supports, particularly for students with Autism, and offers practical tips for effectively using visuals in the classroom. From setting up daily schedules to using choice boards, this episode provides actionable strategies for educators to increase student independence and reduce classroom challenges.Episode Highlights:Benefits of Visual Supports: Visual aids improve communication, provide structure, and help manage transitions, leading to a smoother school day for students with and without disabilities.Importance for Autism: Visual supports are especially beneficial for students with Autism. They help decrease transition difficulties, increase independence, and reduce auditory clutter, which can enhance overall classroom behavior and communication.Practical Implementation Tips: Lisa shares actionable tips for using visual supports, including starting with a daily schedule, using generic visuals for crises, and providing visual choices to give students a sense of control.Supporting Specials with Visuals: Using visual schedules and step-by-step boards during specials like art, music, and PE can help students navigate these challenging transitions and activities more effectively.Resources Mentioned:Task Box Visual Labels for Independent Work StationsVisual SchedulesVisual AidsToken Boards

In this episode, we share five essential behavior tips to help teachers support students with autism at the start of the school year. The first tip is to pair yourself with positive reinforcement, a strategy discussed in depth in episode 9. Getting to know the child is the second tip, emphasizing the importance of conducting preference assessments, spending time with the student, and communicating with their parents. The third tip advises against overwhelming students with too many directions and activities at once, recommending a simple and gradual approach with regular breaks.The fourth tip stresses the importance of using visual aids from day one. Teachers are encouraged to have visual schedules ready and to model their use, rather than waiting to see what the students might need. The final tip is to reinforce good behavior immediately, whether through a token economy, verbal praise, or allowing students to earn rewards. This positive reinforcement should be tailored to each student and evolve throughout the year, but it must begin on the first day.Resources Mentioned:Token BoardsVisual SchedulesVisual directions Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 9  Connect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Hollady explores the importance of establishing effective classroom routines to support students with autism in the general education setting. Lisa discusses how routines can enhance independence, and time management skills, and provide a sense of structure. She offers practical tips for creating and maintaining successful routines, emphasizes the need for visual supports, and provides examples of routines that can be implemented throughout the school day to minimize disruptions and enhance learning.Resources Mentioned:Visual Aids

 In this episode, we speak with Jenna, a mother whose son Connor has autism. Jenna shares her family's journey, the challenges they faced after Connor's diagnosis, and their experiences with the education system. Jenna discusses Connor's diagnosis, the initial challenges, and how they found support. She shares her interactions with the education system, highlighting effective strategies and approaches that have helped Connor. Jenna offers practical advice for teachers working with children with autism for the first time, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between school and home to create a consistent environment.Connect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Holladay delves into the importance and implementation of independent work systems (IWS) in special education classrooms. These structured systems, such as the three-drawer bin system and task boxes, are designed to help students with special needs become more self-reliant by providing visual cues and prompts. Lisa shares practical steps for selecting appropriate tasks, utilizing visual supports, and collecting data to monitor progress. She emphasizes the transformative impact of these systems on classroom dynamics and offers free resources to help educators get started, including a one-hour training and a starter kit. Whether you are a brand new teacher or a seasoned veteran, IWS can be a huge game-changer in your classroom! Resources Mentioned:A free one-hour training on how to start implementing independent work systems.A free Starter Kit for implementing task boxes in your classroom.

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Abby takes on the topic of token boards, an effective tool for motivating and managing behavior in autistic students but also a controversial one. First, we define token boards and explain their basic concept. This is where confusion comes in, so we are going to talk about what they actually are.Then we address common concerns and provide counterarguments. We first will cover the very valid concern that is the over-reliance on extrinsic rewards. Another common argument is the complexity and time-consuming setup and implementation. Lastly, the concern of inequity and fairness is addressed and talked about how to make them fair in your classroom.Finally, Abby will discuss how to implement token boards effectively. The implementation sometimes causes these systems to completely break down which is why she is here to help prevent that.Episode Highlights:What token boards areArguments of why not to use them & counterpointsImplementation tipsResources Mentioned:Free token boardsBehavior Contracts & Charts editableConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of the Autism Academy 360 Podcast, host Lisa Hollady delves into strategies for landing a job in special education, particularly in autism settings. The episode covers essential tips for acing interviews, such as preparing answers to common questions, highlighting your experience, and effectively communicating with families. Lisa emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive learning environments and being prepared for panel interviews. The episode also offers practical advice on behavior management, conflict resolution, and collaborating with support teams to ensure holistic support for students with autism. You won't want to miss this episode if you are a new educator, or you're a seasoned educator who needs some tips on landing a new job!

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Abby discusses the essential topic of teaching self-regulation and coping skills to autistic students. We begin by defining self-regulation and discussing its significance in daily life. We delve into the common challenges autistic students face with self-regulation and examine how these difficulties can impact their learning and social interactions. Next, we address the importance of identifying triggers and stressors that can disrupt self-regulation.Then we move on to practical strategies for teaching self-regulation techniques. Breathing exercises and mindfulness practices, sensory-based strategies, and discuss the concept of a calm-down corner or safe space, offering guidelines for setting up and utilizing these areas effectively in the classroom.Collaboration with support networks is essential for success in teaching self-regulation. We discuss the importance of involving parents and caregivers, sharing techniques and tools used in the classroom that can be applied at home. Working with occupational therapists and other specialists to integrate professional advice and support into classroom strategies is also covered. This episode offers a comprehensive guide for SPED teachers looking to enhance their approach to teaching self-regulation and coping skills, providing practical tips and real-life examples to support their efforts.Episode Highlights:What is self regulationSelf Regulation TechniquesHow to teach these techniquesResources Mentioned:Self Management Task BoxesConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa discusses how to prepare for the Extended School Year (ESY) services for students on the autism spectrum. This episode provides strategies for special education teachers to help their students maintain and progress their skills during the summer.Lisa shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of communication with current teachers, organizing student data, and creating a structured yet engaging schedule. The episode underscores the significance of tailored instruction, consistency, and community-based activities in supporting students' development and preventing regression.

In this episode we are talking all about the concept of core vocabulary and its profound impact on communication in special education settings. This may be something new to you, or something you think is just for SLPs.We will talk about why core vocabulary is important in the classroom, not just the speech room. We will talk about how you can teach students these skills, materials you can use to teach core vocabulary, and some must do’s if you have students who use AAC devices to communicate.Episode Highlights:What is core vocabulary?Where to start with core vocabulary?Materials for Core Teaching VocabularyResources Mentioned:Assistiveware Printable BoardsFree Core Word Unit: WantCheck out all the core word units hereConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa tackles the challenge of managing reinforcers for students with unique interests by introducing the concept of reinforcement bins. She explains how organizing preferred reinforcers in labeled bins can save time and improve classroom efficiency. By storing these bins in a central location, educators can easily access the items when needed. Lisa also recommends a weekly routine where students select 5-10 preferred items to keep in their bins, ensuring the reinforcers remain relevant and motivating. This strategy enhances engagement and supports consistent reinforcement practices throughout the school day.Resources Mentioned:Preference assessment

In this podcast episode, we are talking about 4 things you can do this summer to change behaviors in the fall. First and foremost, establishing clear routines and expectations is essential. Abby will give you some exact steps to take other than just having clear rules so you can have a plan from day one. She’ll also talk about visuals and which ones you need ready for day one of school. By preparing these materials in advance, educators can save time and facilitate smoother transitions during the school year. She also talks about how creating an environment can impact a student and gives suggests of what to look for. Lastly, reviewing and understanding individualized education plans (IEPs) is imperative for effectively implementing accommodations and ensuring student success. She will give some easy tips to easily facilitate this information to all staff working with a student.Resources Mentioned:Token board freebieReal Life VisualsVisual Cue cardsJoin the Behavior Support Hub Membership here!Connect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

Understanding Reinforcer Hierarchies:After conducting a preference assessment to identify student reinforcers, the next step is ranking these reinforcers to create a hierarchy.This hierarchy provides a quick reference to understand which reinforcers students prefer and to what extent.Importance of Reinforcer Hierarchies:Different reinforcers are suitable for various times of the day or activities.For challenging tasks or skills that students are less inclined to perform, using highly preferred reinforcers can increase motivation.Easier or maintenance tasks can be paired with low to mid-range reinforcers.Flexibility and Adaptation:Students should ideally choose their reinforcers, but the frequency and timing of reinforcement can be adjusted based on the task difficulty.Reinforcers may not always be available; limiting access to highly preferred reinforcers can prevent satiation.Data-Driven Decision Making:Reviewing data from preference assessments is crucial for creating a reinforcer hierarchy.Data on which items students interact with and for how long can reveal preferences and trends.Creating the Reinforcer Hierarchy:Use preference data to categorize reinforcers into low, mid, and high levels.Aim for 3-5 reinforcers at each level and share this information with staff for consistent implementation.Maintaining the Hierarchy:The hierarchy is a dynamic document that should be reviewed and updated 3-4 times a year.Changes in student preferences should be reflected to ensure the hierarchy remains effective.By following these guidelines, teachers can effectively use reinforcer hierarchies to enhance student engagement and success in the classroom.

In this episode we are going to talk about easy behavior trick that costs nothing, takes, minimal time, and anyone can do. Sound too good to be true? Promise its not. We are going to talk all about choice, why it is important and the right and wrong ways to offer choices.Episode Highlights:Kids want control- so give it to them!How to offer choices & the wrong way to offer choicesBenefits of offering choicesResources Mentioned:Behavior Support Hub MembershipRelated Blog Posts   How Choice Can Prevent Problem BehaviorConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode, we are talking about the concept of errorless learning. Errorless learning is a teaching method used in special education to ensure students always choose the correct response without experiencing errors. The episode delves into why this method is beneficial for certain learners. Lisa discusses the advantages, how to fade this technique gradually, and suitable activities and settings for implementing errorless learning.Resources Mentioned:Errorless Learning Bundle

In today's episode, we explore effective strategies for managing behaviors when prevention efforts fall short. We discuss five different strategies that you can use when behaviors happen, because we all know they will, These strategies will help you get your student back to baseline and keep everyone safe. By implementing these strategies, we aim to create a supportive and nurturing learning environment while effectively addressing behaviors as they arise. Plus a bonus tip- what you can do after to really make a big impact.Episode Highlights:5 different tips for what to do when a student is escalatedBonus tip for what to do once they are calmResources Mentioned:Thinking SheetsCalming Tools freebie   Connect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode, Lisa discusses 12 tips for first-year special education teachers. Starting your first year as a special education teacher can be daunting, especially when unfamiliar with the students, staff, and school environment. Join us as we share invaluable insights gained from 16 years of experience in self-contained special education classrooms. In this episode, we unveil our top 12 tips to empower new teachers at the beginning of the school year, covering essential strategies from building relationships with support staff to setting up effective schedules and communication systems.Resources Mentioned:Special Education Teacher BinderIEP-AT-A-GLANCE FREEBIEPara Handbook and brochureBLOG POST: 6 Steps to Create an Effective Schedule for Your self Self-Containtained Classroom.Adapted BooksTask BoxesFile Folder GamesLife Skills Curriculum

In this episode Abby explores strategies for differentiating for our Autistic learners. She discusses the importance of modification and accommodation, highlighting methods such as using task boxes for hands-on learning experiences, adapting worksheets, and using technology to meet diverse learner needs. She shares implementation tips and emphasizes the positive impact of these strategies on both student learning outcomes and their behaviors. Additionally, we address common challenges and provide solutions for overcoming them.Episode Highlights:How to use task boxesEasy ways to differentiate worksheetsAn easy app to help differentiateUsing Boom CardsResources Mentioned:Math Task BoxesBoom CardsConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode, Lisa discusses common mistakes educators make when using visual schedules in autism classrooms. Visual schedules are essential tools for supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by providing structure, promoting independence, and enhancing predictability. However, several mistakes can diminish their effectiveness. Lisa explores these mistakes and offers practical solutions to optimize visual schedules for students with ASD.Episode Highlights:Individualization is Key: Personalize visual schedules according to each student's unique needs, communication abilities, and learning styles. Customize using personalized visual supports like photographs, icons, or written words that resonate with each student.Simplicity is Effective: Avoid overcomplicated schedules that can overwhelm students. Keep schedules clear, concise, and easy to understand by using simple language and uncluttered visuals. Break down tasks into manageable steps.Consistency is Crucial: Establish a consistent schedule routine and ensure easy accessibility to visual schedules throughout the day. Regularly review and update schedules to reflect changes in routines or upcoming events.Support Transitions: Integrate transition supports directly into visual schedules using countdown timers, transition warnings, or visual cues. Prepare students in advance for transitions by reviewing the schedule and providing clear expectations.Resources Mentioned:Color Coded Visual Schedules

In this episode Abby talks about how to collect behavioral data- which isn’t always easy to do! We will talk about how data collection provides objective insights into behavior and supports the individualization of interventions. We discuss the types of data to collect and why the need for consistency is so important across the entire team. Additionally, we chat about how  data collection can be collaborative and talk about just how to get the entire team on board. We touch on ways to use technology to streamline data collection and offer solutions to common challenges.Episode Highlights:how you can collect itdifferent ways to collect itwhat to do with it once you have itResources Mentioned:ABC Data SheetQR Code GeneratorConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode, Lisa goes in-depth about her favorite sensory tools to use for students on the Autism spectrum.  She talks about the importance of ensuring that you are hitting all of the sensory needs of your students, including vestibular input, proprioceptive input, and oral seeking input.  Take a listen to hear about all the different tools that she uses in her classroom.Episode 12 will give you so many great ideas for sensory tools used for students and children with autism, make sure you're tuning in to this one!Episode Highlights:Gross Motor ToolsFine Motor ToolsProprioceptive ToolsVestibular ToolsTactile ToolsVisual ToolsAuditory ToolsOral Seeking ToolsResources Mentioned:Blog post: The ultimate checklist of sensory tools

In this episode, Abby dives into the reasons why behavior happens. Behavior never happens out of the blue or in isolation, but for one of four reasons: attention, escape, sensory, or gaining access. In addition to talking about these she also provides some interventions you can do.Episode Highlights:Why figuring out the function is essential to stopping behaviorsThe two most prevalent functions we seeInterventions for eachResources Mentioned:Real life visual SchedulesRelationship Skills Task BoxesRelated Podcast Episodes:Contingency MapsVisual SchedulesMini SchedulesConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa explores ten effective transition supports tailored for students with Autism, acknowledging the challenges transitions pose for individuals who thrive on consistency and routine. From visual schedules and audio cues to transition objects and "check schedule" cards, Lisa discusses a toolkit for easing transitions in various settings. Lisa talks about the importance of matching visuals to individual students' needs, incorporating reinforcement techniques, and utilizing simplified schedules like first-then boards. Additionally, Lisa highlights the value of social stories in preparing students for transitions and the significance of appropriate reinforcement levels. You will want to tune into this episode for some valuable insights and resources for educators and caregivers striving to support autistic individuals in navigating transitions successfully.Resources Mentioned:Visual AidsColor Coded Visual Schedules

In this episode, Abby dives into the crucial concept of pairing yourself with reinforcement for all students, but particularly Autistic students. She defines what pairing is and why it is the foundation of everything you do. She discusses some practical strategies for pairing that you can do in your classroom. She also gives some tips on ways to make pairing successful with even your toughest students.Episode Highlights:Defining what pairing with reinforcement actually isStrategies to pair with your own studentsReal life scenariosResources Mentioned:Getting to Know You Ice Breaker ActivityFREEBIE: Social NarrativesRelated Podcast Episodes:   Episode 5: Contingency MapsConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this episode, Lisa delves into the concept of social narratives, also known as Social Stories, originally coined by Carol Gray. Social narratives serve to help children with disabilities comprehend past or future events, aiding in scenarios ranging from daily routines to significant life changes. Lisa emphasizes the importance of tailoring narratives to individual students, using specific language, and incorporating visuals for better understanding. Join Lisa in episode 8 for a step-by-step guide to creating and implementing social narratives effectively.Resources Mentioned:N/A

Episode summary:Dive into the latest episode where we explore the power of 'First-Then' boards for students with Autism. Discover how these visual supports, assist in navigating sequences of events and help with problem behavior. Learn effective strategies for pairing undesirable tasks with motivating reinforcers. The episode emphasizes how to implement these tools with efficiency and to be sure they work for both you and your students. As they progress, find out tips for fading support and don't miss the special freebie – First-Then boards paired with token boards. Tune in now for valuable insights into creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment!Episode Highlights:What is  first-then boardHow to use themImplementing with successHow to fade these supportsResources Mentioned:Token board freebieConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this insightful episode, Lisa chats all about how to start using Token boards in your special education classroom. Lisa goes over helpful tips and tricks and some do's and dont's once you get started. This podcast episode is a compelling call to special education teachers to understand the value of token boards as a powerful tool in creating a supportive and hands-on learning environment for all students.Don't forget to grab those Token boards that she we about in this episode!!Resources Mentioned:Token Boards on TpT

In this episode, we are focusing on a transformative tool for special educators – contingency maps. Abby will guide you from the basics, exploring the ABCs of behavior (Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence), to unraveling the purpose and benefits of contingency maps in special education settings.Discover the power of these visual aids in analyzing and addressing behavior patterns, making them a game-changer for students with Autism. We chat about the creation of effective contingency maps, breaking down essential components and providing practical tips to ensure clarity and impact.Join us as we discuss real-life success stories, share anecdotes, and address potential challenges, empowering educators to overcome obstacles in implementing contingency maps. Whether you're a seasoned SPED teacher or just starting your journey, this episode equips you with the knowledge and tools to revolutionize your teaching approach and create positive learning experiences for all students. Episode Highlights:Understanding behavior basicsPurpose and benefits of contingency mapsHow to create effective contingency mapsImplementing them in the classroomResources Mentioned:ABC data trackerContingency Map templateConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store

In this podcast episode, Lisa chats about ten different types of visual schedules that special education teachers can use.  In this episode, Lisa goes over, object schedules, mini-schedules, picture schedules, written schedules, traveling schedules and MORE!  Lisa talks about what they look like and how to set them up.  She even talks about different examples on how you can implement these in your classroom today.  Each type is carefully explained, with practical examples and insights into how they can be tailored to individual student needs.  Lisa stresses the importance of flexibility and personalization, encouraging educators to choose the visual schedule that best suits each student. Overall, the episode serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing visual schedules effectively in special education classrooms.Episode Highlights:Topic 1: individual schedulesTopic 2: 10 unique typesTopic 3: Other examplesResources Mentioned:Color Coded Visual SchedulesVisual AidsBlog post: 10 Types of Visual Schedules for Special Education teachers Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom 

In the latest podcast episode for special educators, we delved into the world of visual supports with a focus on mini schedules. We define what mini schedules are, highlighting their role in providing step-by-step guidance for specific tasks. We dive into the use of mini schedules in various educational settings, emphasizing their versatility across subjects and activities. Additionally, we discuss the importance of customization for individual students, encouraging collaboration with students, parents, and colleagues. Practical tips were also shared on how to seamlessly integrate mini schedules into daily routines, showcasing their positive impact on student engagement and understanding. The episode also emphasized how mini schedules contribute to supporting independence and self-regulation in students, with real-world examples.To celebrate the podcast's launch, there's an exciting giveaway! Two lucky winners will each receive a $25 gift card to our website stores. You can enter by either screenshotting your favorite episode and tagging us on Instagram (@chalkboard_superhero or @mrs_moes_modifications) or by writing a review on Apple Podcasts. Doing both gives you two entries! The giveaway closes on Feb 18th, 2023, with winners announced on Feb 19th on Instagram. Check out our websites for more details, and thanks for joining us on this inaugural episode – catch you in the next one!Episode Highlights:Introduction to Mini SchedulesApplicability Across Different SettingsCustomizing Mini Schedules for Individual NeedsIntegration into Daily RoutinesSupporting Independence and Self-RegulationResources Mentioned:Real Life Visual SchedulesBlog Post: Mini Schedules for the Sped ClassroomConnect with Us:InstagramLisa at @chalkboard_superheroAbby at @mrs_moes_modifications Join my our Facebook groupsAbby’s at Mrs. Moes SpeducatorsLisa’s at Special Education SuperheroesJoin our Email ListsJoin Lisa’s hereJoin Abby’s hereShop on TPTAbby’s storeLisa’s store