Over the weekend I was doing some research for school to help out some of my special needs students. Unless you're working in a school, you probably don't know what things are like today in the general education classroom. There really isn't anything called "inclusion" anymore. The inclusion classroom was where the high functioning special education students were mixed with general education students. Today, we're all mixed together, so every class is an inclusion class!
It is incredibly important to understand what it's like to be a child living with Autism so we can meet the needs of these students better. I saw this video over the weekend, and it was quite eye opening. I suggest you take a moment to watch it. For me, it was tough to get through. I couldn't imagine living life like this, but I watched, because I know that the few kids I teach with this disorder can't hit the pause button.
As I was searching Pinterest, I came across the website, Snagglebox. This website is extremely helpful, and offers a lot of answers to the questions that I had.
The blogger, Bec, describes her website in the following: "Snagglebox is primarily a place that supports anyone looking to understand more about autism - autistic people, their parents and families, teachers, health professionals. I aim for honest, practical but encouraging help and useful information explained simply. I also write about other things here too, like being a parent and Minecraft and homeschooling and life."
One thing that was incredibly helpful are Bec's two posts, "99 Questions About Autism," and "99 More Questions About Autism." In addition, Bec has also created an incredible resource, the Autism Preparation Resource for Teachers, which explains to teachers what they can expect and how they can plan for their Autistic student. The resource is $5.00, but any teacher who has taught an autistic student will agree that it's well worth the investment.
Bec also discusses topics like why Minecraft is so addicting. To tell you the truth, my students discuss this game constantly, and I had no idea what it was until reading her articles on it. This game sucks kids in, and they can become addicted to it! It was definitely interesting to learn about.
The last thing that teachers should check out on Snagglebox is the Fidget Toys Download. Bec has compiled 45 different suggestions for fidget toys for students. I went out today and bought a package of bungee cords from Wal-Mart. Students will have them attached to their desks so they can fidget their feet. Hopefully it will help some of my students who need the constant movement during the day!
Dawn and I are taking part in the "Be.YOU.tiful Lifestyle Link Party" this week.
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