July 2010 Blog Posts (9)

Mr. Joe sent us this classroom design idea that worked for him last year.

He had two students diagnosed ADHD, that parents had decided medication was not an option. Lack of focus in class was an issue. Joe invited his class to use Hang Time independently as long as they did not interupt class.

(This picture shows what Joe had in the back corner of…

Continue

As we have been discussing in previous blogs, children need movement to help their bodies learn. With the decrease in physical education and recess time combined with the increase in sedentary activities (like computer, TV and video games) it's no wonder we are seeing more frustrated teachers and children in the classroom.

Do you have any classsroom tips that help students focus more effectively?…

Continue

The smallest things bother kids with sensory processing disorder, but skeptics scoff at the diagnosis.



Our Member, Toni Schulken, has been featured in an article in the Charlotte Observer. The article quotes Toni right next to Dr. Lucy Jane Miller. See the wonderful Pathways for Learning Staff and the families they care for.



Most of you know Toni as the capable creator… Continue

 

---

When it comes to setting up your classroom for the greatest year ever, I turn to my favorite teachers for their tips. These teachers believe the classroom design affects how much attention students are able to give you and their lessons - ultimately impacting how much they learn. All the teachers I talked to were in favor of a reading area, especially with a cozy nook feel.…

Continue

Many children are overly sensitive to sights and sounds in the classroom and get overwhelmed as the day goes on. The lights seem to blare, and sounds like papers shuffling or the air conditioning fan can wreak havoc on focus and…

Continue

Is it already that time of year? Where did the summer go?

A special needs child will need special preparations to ensure a smooth transition from home routines to school routines. If a child is going to be with a new teacher, it would be a great idea to set up a meeting so that everyone is on the same page and to ensure a secure, safe transition into the new school year.

If that is…

Continue

...and what a wonderful, witty voice hers is!

Have you seen the 20/20 ABC News story about a girl that was so trapped in her autism, that others assumed that she was mentally challenged? Carly Fleischmann,…

Continue

Did you know that brain research shows a correlation between color, mood and behavior?

The color blue, for example is known to promote calming and increase feelings of well being. Green is also known for calming and lowering stress. These are considered cool colors as they help relax the nervous…

Continue

We start out using black and white contrasting shades to engage an infant's attention. Somewhere around 3 months we move on to primary colors and then introducing an entire rainbow of colors to brighten up our homes, bedrooms and classrooms.

The question is, are we overstimulating our children? The answer is, it depends.

For most children, the use of colors - to engage and brighten up…

Continue