tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44934881692848672902024-03-05T19:50:23.534-08:00Education In All Ways SpecialEducation In All Ways Special is an edublog that promotes special education awareness,and trends in education and literacy. All blog entries are written a positive way.@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-60195228013580177432019-05-21T04:05:00.001-07:002019-05-21T04:05:27.003-07:00Education In All Ways Special: My "Why" In Special EducationSped Thread<a href="https://mittaubs.blogspot.com/2019/05/my-why-in-special-education.html?spref=bl">: My "Why" In Special Education</a>: I was a teacher of special education in New York for 8 and a half years. I loved my self-contained classroom. I loved my coll...@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-16969781650379544882019-05-20T11:14:00.001-07:002020-05-28T12:23:57.651-07:00My "Why" In Special Education<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I was a teacher of special education in New York for 8 and a half years. I loved my self-contained classroom. I loved my colleagues. I worked in the same school that I had graduated from. On paper it sounds like a win-win situation, right? In so many ways, it was. The town I taught in is nestled quite comfortably in the Adirondack mountains and borders Vermont. Picturesque, most definitely, mostly. The town is plagued with poverty. The impoverished homes are not so pretty. It is riddled with the haves versus the have-nots. The nearest grocery store and hospital is 25 miles away. There are no clothing stores. There is a pharmacy. My students were the have-nots! I worked tirelessly to change this. In a small way, I did. I made sure that my students were not openly teased. In my classroom all were equal. I worked feverishly to bring my students out of the back corner of the school building and into the limelight! I did just this! We made the television news and the newspaper for our work with: The Not Perfect Hat Club, Special Olympics, and raising money to help the people of Nepal build a new school after their devastating earthquake in 2015. My students became champions!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Then, my long-time friend in Pennsylvania called me to tell me about a classroom that was perfect for me! A middle school/high school life skills class. My dream was to build a better future for all special education students everywhere! I also wanted my husband to see beyond the small town that he had always lived in. It would be nice to live in an area with amenities. I pondered deeply about what I should do. I didn't really want to leave my New York students, but I also believe in taking chances to better myself. I left New York for Pennsylvania with sadness, trepidation, and hope. I didn't just hope for myself, I hoped that my New York students that I had nurtured for over three years would continue to blossom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> My new classroom in Pennsylvania was truly my dream job. Again, I found myself in an impoverish town but this town did have ample amenities. My husband was a changed man! He loved Pennsylvania! The grocery store was less than a mile away! What a treat! My new students of course tested me but I had two competent paraeducators who helped ease me into my new school and classroom. I also went from a public school system to a education company. This was a very big change!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Did I keep in touch with my New York students? Of course! Each year I made a reading chain in my classroom. The student earns a ring for every book read. I made this a contest between schools! The kids even started making cards for each other! We Skyped! It was wonderful! I won't say which class won, because to me, every person who chooses to read is a winner!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> My joy was short lived! I work for an education company. After two and a half years in my new school. The school decided to take their classes back from the company that I work for. Devastated? Oh, yes! Scared? Yes! Sad? Most definitely. My new class had come so far! They became independent. They learned to write! They went from crying and having tantrums about writing to writing paragraphs! We had a Makerspace! Also, I had began the first ever Unified, Special Olympic Bocce team for the school. We won the bronze medal! I had a student going to regular Algebra class! So much good was happening in this classroom! Alas, there was nothing I could do! I had to say good-bye!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSL_AUt3ALBpf-x4_AFrNwo6svA06BPKOrHnntG-fkRKKIVnmz9dtj5Z_xPgm8y3NfRaZtLV9FOgt0foduPvzLcFyQwnZ8qCgqF9zRWQY4dPMwBagx_agduaZB2nqCwecfwJsew7tT_os/s1600/VB-MAPP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSL_AUt3ALBpf-x4_AFrNwo6svA06BPKOrHnntG-fkRKKIVnmz9dtj5Z_xPgm8y3NfRaZtLV9FOgt0foduPvzLcFyQwnZ8qCgqF9zRWQY4dPMwBagx_agduaZB2nqCwecfwJsew7tT_os/s200/VB-MAPP.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> I was transferred to another program within my company. I would be beginning again in another new school. I was going to the infamous Autism Support program. I was quite nervous to say the least, but decided to give this a try! I poured over my new students IEPs. They are all in a center based program because they are aggressive. I would need to learn Verbal Behavior-Milestones Assessment and Placement Program by Mark Sundberg, Ph.D.. I would become a part of the Pennsylvania Autism Initiative Program. I would lead a staff of 8. My question, "How can I lead when I don't know the program?". </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I won't lie, this year has been the most difficult of my 22 years teaching and 35 years in education! Did I learn? Yes! Did I learn more? Yes! Do I still need to learn more? Always! Did I give up? No way! I never would.The best part is that my staff truly respect me! We became a family!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> My most valuable lesson is how valuable my students are. They are precious. They are so beautifully themselves! They don't care what anybody else thinks, they are always true to who they are! Did they become aggressive toward me! Yes! Yes, they did! Was it my fault? No! Like I said, they are true to who they are. Their aggressive ways are how they express themselves. My job is to find ways to avoid and/or cope with the aggression. My job is to teach them ways to communicate so that they can express their wants and needs better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> It has been a hard year! I truly needed the support of my special education consultant, my board certified behavior analyst, the behavior support assistants, my paraeducator, my personal care assistants, the speech pathologist, my therapeutic support staff, the other Autism Support Teachers, and my student's parents! Thank you! My staff is amazing! My staff works so incredibly hard every day. Our job is not glamorous. We can't wear pretty teacher clothes or jewelry. My only hair style is to wear my hair pulled back so that just maybe it doesn't get pulled! We wear arm guards to protect us from bites and pinches. I think I have been bruised since day one! We do toileting duties. I have a student who vomits multiple times a day. My students will not say "thank you". Yet, actually they do! I see little smiles when they see me. They calm down when I am make their discomfort, better. I may get hit, kicked, pinched, or punched but at the end of the day I do realize that this is why they are here and if they feel the need to do this then inside they are uncomfortable too. I see peace in their eyes when they see that I am there. I know that days I am not there are harder for my staff and my students. I have always prayed to teach the kids who need me the most. These are the kids who need me the most. We work hard in my classroom. We follow a comprehensive schedule, faithfully. My students need structure and routine and we provide this continuously. My class is learning life skills. This is new to them, they are learning through task analysis. Their lives are improving!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> My heart is in turmoil because I am searching for the next group of kids who need me the most. Again, I love my current kids and all of my former kids! If I move on great. If I do not move on, also great because this is where I need to be. I truly want to teach in the field of special education forever! My goal is to always leave my classroom and my students better off than when I started. I always do this! I am also always grateful to the parents who entrust me with their most cherished blessing everyday.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> My "why" is because all kids whether special or not need a champion and need hope. My vow is to never give up on kids! </span></div>
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-50563821279059510022018-01-06T16:34:00.003-08:002018-01-06T16:34:52.156-08:00In Special Education: Love is What Matters Most<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> There is one thing that I believe almost more than anything else, special education matters. I have been a special education teacher for 34 years and have never doubted that this career was my calling. Thirty four years later plus the four in undergraduate studies, and I have never forgotten any of the precious children that walked through my classroom door. Each one has offered me insight to the human connection and beyond!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> My very first "student" was Jonathan. He was a four year old autistic boy. I was still in high school. It was believed by Jonathan's special education teacher that he needed more human involvement beyond that given by his parents and teacher. She developed a program to give Jonathan more time to learn about himself and the world around him. She interviewed and gathered five student volunteers who would work with Jonathan one night each. My night was Friday evenings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBMHpQxXWBlk3gbxa8M7L51ei5EYFxlXf5W1nRmNPwqXAJy8t2u6JNfYxwk_0QTInLQMRZGzGEAsMdyh9CYETLvw6_VfQ1yPMSMink19_3BINELgws2vq78QexmliDJquRnVs8gH3qic/s1600/Son-Rise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguBMHpQxXWBlk3gbxa8M7L51ei5EYFxlXf5W1nRmNPwqXAJy8t2u6JNfYxwk_0QTInLQMRZGzGEAsMdyh9CYETLvw6_VfQ1yPMSMink19_3BINELgws2vq78QexmliDJquRnVs8gH3qic/s200/Son-Rise.jpg" width="150" /></a> </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raun and his mom, Suzi.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raun and his dad, Barry</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> We were trained mostly by reading the novel, <u>Son-Rise,</u> written by Barry Neil Kaufman. Barry Kaufman wrote this book in 1976. The year I began working with Jonathan was 1978. Against all odds and all professional advice, Barry and his wife, Suzi, refused to stop loving, trying, or hoping that their son, Raun, would leave the safety of his quiet, autistic world and gradually share his life with their family. Barry Kaufman recorded their journey. Their steadfast love and tireless work ethic gave Raun back to his family. This is truly a story about love, and family. Jonathan's story was about love and family too. Jonathan's parents were devoted to him. They converted their home into a haven where Jonathan could feel safe, happy, and loved. As I entered Jonathan's home, there was a tire swing between the living room and kitchen. It was there that I would greet Jonathan every Friday evening. Jonathan showed me what my calling was. My original plan was to become a registered nurse. Jonathan taught me that there was a different career that I belonged in, special education.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Early on in my career, I learned that in special education as in all education, love is what matters most. If their isn't love behind what we are teaching then their is little chance that the student will gain progress. Special education requires tenacity, dedication, and persistence with a foundation of doing what you know is right in your heart. It is not for the weak of heart. A special educator must be gentle, yet firm and fair. Repetition and routine go a long way in building new skills. Practice really does make perfect!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> There is one thing about Special education that is bothering me lately. I guess, that this "thing" is happening throughout all of education, really. This "thing" is called <i>paperwork.</i> This is my opinion about that. I believe wholeheartedly in Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for special education students. IEPs are after all kind of like road maps that direct teachers and special education providers on the right path when working with new students. IEPs make sure that that students receive all of the services that they need. IEPs protect the child. I also believe in data collection. I believe that the data shows us how the child is doing and takes us to where the child needs to go next. I believe in progress reports, because parents absolutely deserve to know how their child is doing. I even believe in some testing! Again, I believe that tests can be like a road map to tell us where the child and the teacher need to go next! Tests should really be for the teacher to see how well his/her teaching is reaching the students. If the lessons are not reaching the students, then the teacher may want to review his/her delivery style. That's it! This is where I believe the paper work should end except for the occasional incident report or field trip form! Lesson plans are really for the teacher to guide their lessons. Teachers should have them of course, but should be allowed to write them in a way that makes the most sense to them. Administrators should ask to see lesson plans during observations, but the teacher's creativity and thought process should be allowed to shine on the lesson plans.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8vz0FqwZKxGv9i7KQgnLi8HJGbR1XPbpEea2O1vrVptnMyI8AVGVsr1XXIvbq_CI4uaTWK4zvJiyxy64Fiqo7UGoNMTG06jc_gpsQupAqogGNJLUT3oQ_vmzYcW8rjtWHcZq62Gc3A8/s1600/Over-planning+Kills+magic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="672" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8vz0FqwZKxGv9i7KQgnLi8HJGbR1XPbpEea2O1vrVptnMyI8AVGVsr1XXIvbq_CI4uaTWK4zvJiyxy64Fiqo7UGoNMTG06jc_gpsQupAqogGNJLUT3oQ_vmzYcW8rjtWHcZq62Gc3A8/s200/Over-planning+Kills+magic.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I saw a quote recently from "Kindness is Magic" in Queensland, Australia. "Over-planning kills magic." I agree with this quote! My favorite thing to do is to plan amazing, interesting lessons that make memories for the students! Too much paperwork takes away from the time teachers have to plan highly-effective, creative lessons that are aimed at the student population.Too much paperwork limits the time that teachers have to go above and beyond to do what they love best...<i>create magical lessons!</i> I want to bring the magic and the love back in to education!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Teaching is fun, and can be so magical! Special education matters. That one "thing", <i>paperwork,</i> matters too, in moderation. It's important to remember though, that above all however, let us not forget, that every child matters. Every child matters with no judgement;only acceptance. If Barry Neil Kaufman, Raun Kaufman, Jonathan, and all of my current and former students have taught me anything: In Special education, love is what matters most.</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-70820596086914139662017-06-17T22:07:00.001-07:002017-06-18T00:16:18.361-07:00Happiness is a Special Education Classroom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I must admit, I have been procrastinating about writing a new blog post for some time! Most of what I have thought about writing lately isn't really blog worthy! So, I decided to write about the things that bring me joy! The things that make me happy as a special education teacher. My happiness comes from being in a special education classroom. I have never regretted my career choice. I won't lie, being a special education teacher is a very difficult job! I wouldn't trade this difficult job for anything. I am in it for the kids! So, let me begin with the number #1 reason why I love my career choice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1. The students! Just thinking about my students now and way back over thirty years ago, makes me smile. Kids are honest and are so good about being genuine. They say what they think, and they behave how they feel. Sometimes they are like tiny puzzles that must be figured out. Eventually through trial and error each child is understood. The child realizes that they are cared for, somebody gets them! When this happens, the teaching becomes magical! I love seeing them everyday!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2. My co-workers. I adore my para-educators, aides, and personal care assistants. When we all work together a beautiful thing happens. We become a school family! No one works in special education for the money! It's always all about the kids. Where else would you find a caretaker willing to change jobs just to follow a student? When a classroom works right the students feel safe and trust the adults in their classroom. This is when real learning can take place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3. The special education related service providers are third on my list! I love the team of professionals that share in the education of my students. The speech people, occupational therapists, physical therapists, autistic support teachers, job trainers, guidance counselors, social workers, psychologists, and special education consultants. These people run from school to school, class to class, and student to student all day long, yet enter the classroom with a big smile ready to see that certain student who they mean the world to. My kids (students) know right down to the minute what day and time each of their service providers come to see them. They all have their very own special unique bond with each student. Their expertise with these students is very helpful in helping the student to become more successful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU1r1SuwH4o3apJ3SP3zPHnSuR0l9rjXPnGA4ynCHkRzxTvpW8BZyMr0icnzoe6FQy-tyEdm8Oxb7fRdSMRY3assmQ3P7rLKoF-VHUkGt2CyiI2FyOHOESwTPjsnfx_B1HNa3f3r0CoA/s1600/IMG_2578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU1r1SuwH4o3apJ3SP3zPHnSuR0l9rjXPnGA4ynCHkRzxTvpW8BZyMr0icnzoe6FQy-tyEdm8Oxb7fRdSMRY3assmQ3P7rLKoF-VHUkGt2CyiI2FyOHOESwTPjsnfx_B1HNa3f3r0CoA/s200/IMG_2578.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> 4. The cafeteria employees and maintenance personnel are fourth on my list! I adore the cafeteria workers and the maintenance people. It just often seems that the cafeteria people and the maintenance people are the first to lend a helping hand when my kids or even a specific student needs a helping hand. Mrs. B. would often take the time out of her day to allow a certain young man to sweep the hallways with the giant broom. Mr. R. made the dreams come true for a student who wanted to help out in the cafeteria. I thank these unsung heroes because in the eyes of my students they are true heroes!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYyyWOSL-ksRN0miUehDyWvm6YJx-ninMrYl-xvfpL3Ppz58Pq3xENHK6xx8yhEfS1rMR50QyagbcAVE190dUX2ZH3Sa1sQ3B0Gn7NZ7XLDe73mr_-p1WUQIY4pXo7-MJ6LBSJqe0eJpg/s1600/IMG_3761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYyyWOSL-ksRN0miUehDyWvm6YJx-ninMrYl-xvfpL3Ppz58Pq3xENHK6xx8yhEfS1rMR50QyagbcAVE190dUX2ZH3Sa1sQ3B0Gn7NZ7XLDe73mr_-p1WUQIY4pXo7-MJ6LBSJqe0eJpg/s200/IMG_3761.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> 5. The creativity of teaching is my fifth love! Yes I love lesson planning! I love figuring out ways to deliver instruction to my students in a way that they will understand it and remember it! I love the art of teaching! Sometimes when teaching, I feel like an actress or maybe a cross between am actress and a comedian! I do whatever it takes to bring a point home! I love hands on learning: building, digging, pouring, imagineering; yes I meant to say <i>imagineering!</i> <i>Imagineering</i> is a product of making our imaginations come to life! There is also a kind of fine tuning that takes place everyday, I have to blend each activity carefully to a time of day that will benefit the students the most. Unfortunately, not all of our work can be "flashy" or "Fun"! So, we ease into the morning after breakfast, with our daily news, followed by social circle, followed by a full morning of English language Arts, and three different reading classes, all before lunch! To break this up we have a "brain break" with our friends at Go-Noodle! After lunch we have math, social studies, life skills, and science! It's during the afternoon when I turn things up a notch after a long morning of learning! It's in the afternoon when we sometimes bring our lessons to life! It's in the afternoon when good ol' <i>imagineering </i>takes place! Needless to say, I find the teaching part of teaching fun!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao-2kAHZwCWwRjFvxpsKxrPeWwnmfgB4Z5qWCdS6iNTq5SH1Xl8SAzlC_W-0FTxNxpcUFlAmSM59hVmgWnVgQ5T__MQvouTizVVo5ZlHapjeDphAYaQ87YQZmZEZlO-gnfwkUv314hr8/s1600/Wonka+party+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao-2kAHZwCWwRjFvxpsKxrPeWwnmfgB4Z5qWCdS6iNTq5SH1Xl8SAzlC_W-0FTxNxpcUFlAmSM59hVmgWnVgQ5T__MQvouTizVVo5ZlHapjeDphAYaQ87YQZmZEZlO-gnfwkUv314hr8/s200/Wonka+party+line.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a little Charlie and the Chocolate Factory/ Kindness Party</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">6. The sixth thing I love about Special Education is the IEP (Individualized Education Plan)! Maybe I'm crazy, but yes, I love the IEP. Writing them is not so much fun! I however appreciate their value. I believe that every child is different and not just kids in special education, but all kids. The IEP really does bring the best of education to each child to meet his or her personal needs. If it's on the IEP, then it must be followed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">7. Last on my list of things I love about special education is bringing the world to my students. I never, ever want my students to feel like they can't make a difference in the world because they most certainly can! I love doing service projects with my students because then they see for themselves the differences they can make in other peoples lives. In the past my students from two different schools have raised money for author Jena Ball to be able to publish her book "The Not So Perfect Club." We met with Ms. Ball, Marty Keltz (TV producer for the "Magic School Bus" series, and with students also helping Ms. Ball in Iowa, through SKYPE. We also raised money after the earthquake in Nepal to help rebuild damaged schools. Finally, we raised money for Special Olympics in New York State. Our current service project is, "Letters for Life". We make cards and send them to our "Little Warrior Buddies". Each student has been matched with a child to send cards monthly. The children all have very serious medical problems. My students adore their monthly matches! The "Little Warrior Buddies" post pictures of themselves with their cards for my students to see. Some of my students have received cards back. It has become a nice friendship. We also make and send cards by request. If you know someone who needs a pick-me up, message me and we will send them a homemade card. We are hoping to reconnect with the students in Nepal to send cards to </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">them too. Who says that we have to speak the same language to appreciate a new friend! It has been heartwarming to see the responses of my students when they know they are making a difference in someone else's life. The truth is though that those we are trying to help are making a difference in our lives too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I am beyond happy that I chose a career where I get to meet some of the most fascinating people in the universe! I value each and every one of them. My life is better because of the children I teach.</span></div>
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-65847885754317095862017-03-19T18:49:00.001-07:002017-03-19T20:32:48.613-07:00Letters for Life<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbnAY3Z2XM9YocdD6bqA9FovDqeX2ZvC6FEEDhItuzhDosU9xTFMF8bnpB1Ae0HVV2mqSEYVpsdiShbNhLvLfDMh4wOvOdj-4IilpEYB_1l2ECXJ9i-SjFQJFGcfdGUt2hI_21UfHYGCY/s1600/Letters+for+Life+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbnAY3Z2XM9YocdD6bqA9FovDqeX2ZvC6FEEDhItuzhDosU9xTFMF8bnpB1Ae0HVV2mqSEYVpsdiShbNhLvLfDMh4wOvOdj-4IilpEYB_1l2ECXJ9i-SjFQJFGcfdGUt2hI_21UfHYGCY/s400/Letters+for+Life+%25232.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> One of the most crucial yet most difficult skills to teach is writing. The task of just thinking about writing often overwhelms students and can cause them to shut down. My life skills students all have difficulty with handwriting, reading, spelling, and organization. So, when it comes to writing my motto is: "slow and steady wins the race." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> In the beginning of the school year we talk a lot about topic sentences. Next we move on to three important detail sentences. Currently we are working on three types of topic sentences: number, feeling, and fact. Next we will add the conclusion sentence, then voila...we have a complete paragraph. We of course work on our spelling, capitalization, and grammar in conjunction with writing a paragraph. My students are doing great with their writing and I couldn't be more proud of them. I have heard very little whining through this whole process. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Since I am a "Life Skills" teacher I wanted to come up with a way to connect my students writing with the real world. This is how our "Letters for Life"project began. My goal was for my students to make cards and write letters to anyone who was lonely or needed cheering up. Sometimes just getting a card and knowing that someone cares can make a world of difference to them. Cards of kindness, I like to call them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Somehow, I stumbled upon a group called, "Little Warrior Cards." It's a group of people started by moms who send cards to children who are sick or disabled. I asked for 10 children's names and addresses to match them to the students in my class. Our first cards went out near Christmas time. Each of my students has been assigned a child to send cards to once a month. Once the child receives heir card, his/her parent posts a picture of their child with the cards. My students love hearing how their "Little warrior Buddies" are doing. I consider this a win-win situation. My students are able to practice their skill at following directions (to make the card), their skill at writing both handwriting and paragraph, kindness skills which we practice everyday, and postal skills.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3EgnHFDjZNJHR_MFhuHT_aUmZT52Ln5s1vvfbqM4cfamanunO6z-40kz4Xg7RpINbTpy-_A6l973jy26cZIQu6hNK5CLDaswl95ZX8R8j99EmPrabe5MpDwHeGPB2ppNdvBVNwegAg1c/s1600/Roberto+and+Andre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3EgnHFDjZNJHR_MFhuHT_aUmZT52Ln5s1vvfbqM4cfamanunO6z-40kz4Xg7RpINbTpy-_A6l973jy26cZIQu6hNK5CLDaswl95ZX8R8j99EmPrabe5MpDwHeGPB2ppNdvBVNwegAg1c/s320/Roberto+and+Andre.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Their new friends are now connected with a student who will send them cards once a month. I cannot say enough good about our "little Warrior Buddies" and their parents. These parents are dealing with a critically ill child every day, yet still spread so much kindness themselves. The children who are dealing with diseases and disabilities that no one should ever have to face do it with such grace and bravery. One goal for this group is to spread the word that childhood cancer needs more money for research. Their ultimate goal is however to to bring happiness to their children during their darkest hours. I admire this group and their efforts so much.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> In conclusion, I'd like to add that if you know someone who could use a little pick-me-up I know the best people to bring joy to them. Simply message me with their address, approximate age, and likes at: https://www.mittaubin.weebly.com. You can find the page under: Educational strategies and activities, followed by service projects, "Letters 4 Life" or simply go to the contact page. My students and I thank you in advance.</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-35881813466425712562016-09-10T18:25:00.002-07:002016-09-14T17:16:52.313-07:00The No-Excuses Homework Supply Bag<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have an incredibly ironic secret to share with my fellow teachers. I despicably, vehemently, despise giving homework to children! It's my belief that children are in school all day working hard. When they go home at night they should be outside playing, participating in sports, joining after school clubs, eating dinner, spending quality time with their families. Kids need to spend time just being kids. These are the things that may give them interests in life-long hobbies and many positive memories. Right? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> So, even though I am not a staunch believer in lots of homework, I am a believer in a little bit of homework to give children a responsibility and to also practice skills so that there is more time in school to do the bigger lessons. I teach Life Skills to children in 7th-12th grade. Is it cruel to give homework to special education students? I say no!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I decided that instead of working on spelling day after day in school. We could work on spelling two times a week in school and use the other days for heavy duty ELA lessons. My theory you ask? What good is spelling if you can't write a sentence! I want to make homework as painless as possible with an almost guarantee that ever student will bring their homework back to school everyday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> My plan: We made <i>no-excuses, take home homework supply bags </i>filled with everything necessary to complete home work at home. We had a blast making the bags with duct tape! Initially, I had visions of duct tape stuck in my hair or kids tangled up in it! Thankfully how wrong my vision was! The kids had fun and so did I! Since it is so ridiculously easy to make a no-excuses homework supply bag, I am sharing this fabulous invention with you.</span></div>
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1) Buy the materials:</h3>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Several rolls of colorful duct tape. I bought mostly solid colors with a few printed rolls to accent the bag.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Gallon sized plastic bags with zippered locks.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Supplies that your students will need for home work:I filled ours with pencils, pens, erasers, colored markers, crayons, colored pencils, and a spiral notebook. It's best to purchase the supplies during the back to school sales, when the prices are low.</span></li>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">2) Lie the plastic bag flat on the desk in front o</span><span style="font-size: large;">f each student. Tape the bottom with excess tape on both sides so that the bag doesn't move while the kids are adding more tape.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxPXXbQRdMFUIcwhzBLLgGDRmSO36RKg981eZKh02PxU6hqtAt5HgLBMiPu4bEJjcjINo6q7T-fSj8r9fWf2dZsSgPp5j7KH2JZOQsfQtZX-UvNfZ0tjJK0D0mILpKjN7fJQ8Zos9dt0/s1600/Angel+with+strips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxPXXbQRdMFUIcwhzBLLgGDRmSO36RKg981eZKh02PxU6hqtAt5HgLBMiPu4bEJjcjINo6q7T-fSj8r9fWf2dZsSgPp5j7KH2JZOQsfQtZX-UvNfZ0tjJK0D0mILpKjN7fJQ8Zos9dt0/s320/Angel+with+strips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
3) Allow the students to choose their own colors. I had my kids use solid colors and then add the fancier duct tape for fun! We put duct tape on the first side of the plastic bag in strips. We then flipped it over to do the same to side two.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">4) Next we embellished each bag with the printed duct tape.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">5) Since we are a life skills class who uses an assembly line on other projects, I chose to practice our assembly line skills to fill our <i>no-excuses home work supply bags</i>. The kids did a great job!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbusLcPkROH97hi4Kz2fh7d68Wb4noTb2PYwozD8gO3u4s2bsaqmZovsuWL_gUtXhPYCFDJfmMjECsAIlvRyMZ5HfI8Mv6b0HHulKgT0UmJDP0f4VyImK1Q2LnhLnNx3ZvBQY-cdDFNHA/s1600/HW+bag+assembly+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbusLcPkROH97hi4Kz2fh7d68Wb4noTb2PYwozD8gO3u4s2bsaqmZovsuWL_gUtXhPYCFDJfmMjECsAIlvRyMZ5HfI8Mv6b0HHulKgT0UmJDP0f4VyImK1Q2LnhLnNx3ZvBQY-cdDFNHA/s320/HW+bag+assembly+line.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> The next task I did to ensure homework completion was to sign my class up for Spelling City. http://www.spellingcity.com Spelling City is an on-line site where I can post my students spelling and vocabulary words. The best part for me is that since my students spelling lists are individualized according to their own personal level, I can easily add as many lists as I want. I was also able to print letters to the parents in both Spanish and in English so that the parents knew that their children can practice on their computers at home. I am notified of the time each student spends on Spelling City and see their progress. Better yet, the games on Spelling City are varied and fun! My students love it! A few have downloaded it to their cell phones! No, I don't work for Spelling City. I just like to share helpful tools for my colleagues. So whether you send home spelling homework or another subject you should never again have to hear, "I couldn't do my homework because I didn't have any supplies".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Now I can tell you that the <i>"No-excuses Homework bags </i>combined with Spelling City have made ten highly successful students in my classroom. We have a 90% success rate with homework and 100% on all of our spelling tests. I'm proud, my kids are happy. ELA is going great! In a very odd sense the <i>No-excuse homework bags </i>have seriously changed our classroom lives for the better! I hope this tool can work for you too!</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-36678028654973227662016-07-27T21:47:00.001-07:002016-07-27T22:07:08.663-07:00SymbalooEDU Social Bookmarking Service Gets this Teacher into the Cloud!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span> <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span></span><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Three weeks ago I had never heard of SymbalooEDU. I went to a professional development class feeling not so tech enabled with my head literally in the clouds and left with a free social bookmarking service in the cloud! Clouds now have a whole new meaning to me! SymbalooEDU has changed my life for the better.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJH3KKDw4alnYtGiRRUYiJzJbVYLWJ8SZO9U_v5LqwEkh2s7EYjyBiuHxNZ_PJAdFbUmx_2zJRMFHHdfoDY5zkO7fN9jWqYAEzBpu8EVM0KMXgJ8-com21IVuBl01-Qk7hmYRlW9_qJ8/s1600/symbaloo+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJH3KKDw4alnYtGiRRUYiJzJbVYLWJ8SZO9U_v5LqwEkh2s7EYjyBiuHxNZ_PJAdFbUmx_2zJRMFHHdfoDY5zkO7fN9jWqYAEzBpu8EVM0KMXgJ8-com21IVuBl01-Qk7hmYRlW9_qJ8/s1600/symbaloo+image.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> With SymbalooEDU teachers can organize and share the best of the web with their students. To me SymbalooEDU is an amazing tool. To the right of this page is a sample picture of what SymbalooEDU looks like. SymbalooEDU is a free educational tool that gives teachers and students a way to save their on-line resources in the cloud with access from any technological device, such as: an iPad, iPhone, MAC, and/or personal computer. Each tile on the SymbalooEDU grid (actually called a gallery) is a website, app, or a resource. As a busy teacher who always wants to give their students the best possible lessons, SymbalooEDU is not only a life saver but also a time saver. Now with a click of a button, the classroom teacher can share websites with students and colleagues. There will no longer be gaps in instructional time while the teacher types in web addresses manually. Just one click and the whole class is together on the correct website. There will no longer be the worry of advertising getting into what the student sees. The best part is that all resources in the SymbaloEDU gallery are saved in the cloud. This means that they can be accessed by any device in or out of school. SymbalooEDU resources automatically sync between a user’s ipad, iPhone,Mac, and personal computer.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"> Again, please look at the sample SymbalooEDU picture above. Each color coded section which will actually have pictures or graphics on it from the website, demonstrates how each teacher or user can organize their SymbalooEDU gallery. This actually has a name called: a<i> webmix.</i> Simply stated, a webmix is a collection of links around a specific topic. My personal teaching gallery is actually made up of six webmixes:<i> lessons, typing practice, behavior, presentations, teacher made websites, and music to teach by. </i>Webmixes can be published for other teachers to find and use. Symbaloo EDU is very user friendly. I am not a strong tech person, but even I was able to quickly and easily add my frequently used websites to my SymbalooEDU gallery. It is very simple to search the web from the SymbalooEDU gallery. There you can find your favorite websites that you frequently use and place them on a tile in your gallery.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; line-height: 20px;"> Another great feature of SymbalooEDU is there is a tile where you can create or obtain lesson plans in the marketplace. There is even a Symbaloo basic certification lesson plan!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; line-height: 20px;"> Since I'm not an expert of SymbalooEDU my recommendation is to hop on over to http://www.symbalooedu.com to learn more about it. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; line-height: 20px;">Soon you will be just like me: a teacher in a cloud! Best of luck.</span></span></span></div>
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-60621915273670907382016-06-24T00:34:00.000-07:002016-06-24T00:53:23.338-07:00ADHD Informational Guide: Three Main Types<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-26708343074157520772016-06-14T22:26:00.002-07:002016-07-03T14:16:50.208-07:00Life: Two Questions Answered!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;">My son's friend recently asked me two questions to get to know me better. I decided to share them in a blog form because everyone chooses their own path in live for different reasons. My path from day one was special education. I have chosen to be an advocate for children who need special education services for very personal reasons. I love my career choice and even though I may gripe about the long hours of paperwork that goes along with this career, I do believe that the paperwork is necessary to give children the best education possible. The paperwork is simply the glue that binds all of the services together and keeps the team connected. I have never regretted becoming a special education teacher.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;">Question 1: Why did you go into special education instead of regular education?</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;">"Hmm...My reason for going into special ed as opposed to regular ed is highly personal but not so personal that I won't share. I was a preemie back in 1961. I actually almost didn't make it because my heart stopped beating when I was only a few days old. I was saved. My story could have easily turned out differently. I could have been intellectually challenged. Thankfully I was not. I went into special education to help kids who were not as fortunate as me. I wanted to treat kids how I would have wanted to be treated if I were disabled. I believe that every kid is "normal", it's just that everybody's normal is different. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing kids happy and excited about learning. I love watching kids work hard to get to the next step in his/her education and then get it! I love coming up with new and creative ways to make lessons memorable to keep my students talking about what they have learned and experienced. Not every child learns in the same way. I love finding the key that helps unlock each child's learning potential." </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;">Question 2: What is your favorite holiday and why?</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;"><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;"> "My favorite holiday is Christmas Eve. I love Christmas Eve because it is a true family holiday. Everyone is happy and together reliving Christmas's past and full of hope for the next day. I love reading Christmas books. When my kids were young we had a holiday reading jar. I actually wrote a blog about it! I love unfilled stockings and the smell of the air. I love Christmas Eve Mass as a family. I still remember the feel of my grandmother's smooth, leather gloves as she</span><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;"> </span><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 16.08px;">held my hand in church. I hope my kids have warm memories too.#</span></span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-24619908916861982392016-06-13T18:47:00.000-07:002016-06-19T23:22:34.669-07:00Summertime Play: A Child's Work<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Summertime is here! Did you know that some of the best lessons don't come out of the classroom but from your child's imagination? The belief that play is a child's work is commonly accepted among researchers and educators in the field of early childhood. Practically from birth, children learn best from touching and experiencing objects using their five senses to see the effects of the items on their world and on themselves. Play, along with proper nutrition, hygiene, and adult interaction is essential for proper social adjustment and problem solving skills. Children who play develop abstract thinking skills which will later help them with the necessary skills to be successful in their academic and personal lives.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Children are constantly observing the interactions of adults. Through play they imitate these interactions. One of the best summers my children ever had was the summer that we got a new refrigerator. I had placed the refrigerator box in the garage for disposal. My kids begged me to keep it! So, we did. For the next couple of months my driveway and that box became a playhouse for all of the kids in the neighborhood! It's amazing what kids can do with duct tape, paint, and their imaginations!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Another favorite of my children was play-doh! Kids can make play-doh into anything they want it to be. They can make figurines to role play and/or food to pretend to cook. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Let's not forget blocks and sandboxes or better yet the beach. What better things to use to build castles and dreams!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I have one other activity that I used to let my kids do! We played in the rain! We put our boots and jumped in puddles. We got wet! (Only for rain showers without thunder and lightening). We laughed and had such a great time. What is the difference in getting wet in a pool or beach and a puddle? Okay, yes, puddles may be not quite as clean, but it's all good fun. I also wouldn't advice letting children jump in puddles unattended but within the realm of your own safe neighborhood, why not?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Kids need to be kids! Kids need to play! So, this summer just let your kids be kids! Let them develop their sensori- motor skills, constructive play skills, their dramatic play scenarios, and if they are ready, play games with rules! Remember, the interactions in child's play, will give your child the lessons of giving and taking in social relationships. Creativity will strengthen as the child acts out make pretend dramas and expands on real life situations that the child has observed. Play also helps the child with math and reading because of symbols and shapes used in play. This will become an even stronger skill if you read to your child as part of a regular routine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> So this summer let your child do his/her work and let them play! </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-5966466709360081672016-05-07T11:45:00.002-07:002016-05-08T14:06:22.710-07:00Empower Special Needs Teens with Appropriate Social Strategies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJpBGzmO_VxKwowLCKGeD_d2Qq6UarqSgfVcuNNc16ETwBfz8NnyFK3XwfafC69O_baQnOJXJgZsOvlCrpo1pUbN-bnckGNvXtuGesoepbAdOtKVTIc8awNStzeXyJba78AsJoLWQlF4/s1600/Last+Empower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJpBGzmO_VxKwowLCKGeD_d2Qq6UarqSgfVcuNNc16ETwBfz8NnyFK3XwfafC69O_baQnOJXJgZsOvlCrpo1pUbN-bnckGNvXtuGesoepbAdOtKVTIc8awNStzeXyJba78AsJoLWQlF4/s320/Last+Empower.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Teenagers with special needs have a whole host of hidden difficulties that aren't often thought about or mentioned. Up until puberty and the growth spurt that comes with it, it was okay for these kids to be cute and lovable. They could hug their family members, classmates, or mostly anyone who was kind to them. Often kids with special needs misread people and think anyone who smiles at them or says a kind word to them is an instant friend. Not only is this not true but can also be dangerous.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> When a person is given a properly administered IQ test and has a score or IQ below 70, s/he is in the bottom 2% of the population. A person with an IQ between 60-70 is on the approximate grade level of a third grade student. A third grade student is 8 or 9 years old. Therefore, a teenage or adult person with the mental age of 7 has scored the same amount of questions correct as a 7 year old first or second grade student.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Let's talk about seven year old children for a moment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Socially, seven year old children want recognition for their individual achievements. They are not generally good sports when losing a game or even a sharing a preferred toy. Seven year old children are learning to stand up for their own rights but must be taught boundaries for self advocating. They want to be more independent. They are more critical of themselves and are critical of their own failure. They also become concerned with their own lack of skill and achievement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Now let's take the traits of a seven year old and place them in the mind of a teenager with an IQ lower than 70. This teenager may speak clearly, be able to do simple</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> math equations well enough to balance a checkbook, and may be able to read on a second grade level. This teenager may look just like his or her same aged peers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Up until middle school these teens were expected to be thankful and to express their gratitude. When they were younger it was perfectly acceptable to openly express their appreciation with big smiles and hugs. It was okay to feel safe by holding their caretakers hand. It was okay to sit on well known adults laps. Suddenly their bodies grow and hormones kick in just like their age equivalent peers and <b>"OH NO!" </b> These same expressions of gratitude are no longer appropriate! Let's keep in mind that people with lower IQ's take longer to learn to learn skills and proper behaviors than their age equivalent peers. So these skills and behaviors that were learned early on have been habituated and will be very difficult to change. Learned behaviors are not like academic skills that build on to each other, for example learning alphabet sounds, then applying phonics skills to create the basis for reading. Behaviors become habits which are very difficult to undo. Behaviors become deeply ingrained in the person's brain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> So now, this teenager who was once labelled <i>sweet</i> and <i>affectionate</i> is now labelled <i>weird</i> or <i>perverse, </i>or perhaps even<i> dangerous! </i>The special needs body has grown but their emotional and social growth has remained childlike. Special needs teens often don't know their own strength. their reactions to others is often the same as it was when they were seven years old but now it is isn't adorable or acceptable. Sadly, in reality these teens are victims of circumstance. They are not weird, or perverse, or dangerous. They simply haven't completed their learning on socially appropriate behavior yet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This leaves the special needs teenager and soon to be, adult in a very vulnerable situation. most people in the world are not trained to see hidden disabilities. If a person is walking and talking and seemingly functioning as<i> "normal",</i> then to the untrained eye, this person is normal. It's an oxymoron of fortuity. Teens who are intellectually disabled often face teasing, taunts, abuse, and rejection by peers yet because they want to be accepted and have friends these teens think these "<i>bullies" </i>are their friends. They believe that their <i>"friends" </i>aren't laughing at them, they are laughing with them. Again, this is because since birth a smile has been a sense of approval.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Low intelligence coupled with limited social-emotional skills, lead to special needs teens missing important social cues. An example:<i> Dorothy is an outgoing, kind 16 year old teenager. She is in Honor Society so volunteers her time to help in a self-contained special education classroom in her school . Dorothy helps Christopher in math. He is learning how to balance a checkbook. Christopher writes his first, perfect bank deposit slip. Dorothy gets excited, she smiles at Christopher and touches his shoulder to congratulate him. Christopher gets very excited and misreads Dorothy's cues. Christopher leans in and tries to kiss and hug Dorothy.</i> <i> Christopher gets reprimanded by his teacher. Dorothy who is embarrassed leaves the room. Again she unknowingly gives the wrong social cues by saying "It's all right Christopher.You did great!" Later, Christopher sees Dorothy at the playground with her friends. Christopher begins following Dorothy and her friends everywhere. At first Dorothy again gives misguided social cues to Christopher so that she doesn't hurt his feelings. She smiles and tells him to please stop following her. The smile tells Christopher that she likes him even though her words do not make sense. Eventually, Christopher follows Dorothy home, often. Christopher's parents believe he is safely hanging out at the local playground, because he returns home on time. He has been going to the playground his entire life. He is allowed to go alone because he is never a problem and can tell time so he knows when to walk home.They do not expect any problems because Christopher has always been kind to others. One day Dorothy and her parents decide that Christopher may be a threat. They call the police. Christopher now has a police record for stalking when in reality he was only misunderstanding social cues. </i>This story is false but realistically special need teens face these hidden dangers everyday. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Another danger that intellectually challenged teens may face is their size and strength. They are not dangerous they just may not realize their own strength. An example is: <i>Jane, who is an intellectually challenged seventeen year old. Jane has younger siblings who are ages three and six. Jane enjoys being with her siblings. Jane sees her parents playing with her siblings and wants to join in. When mom or dad is present Jane is reminded to be gentle. One day Mom is distracted by the mailman; Jane decides to help by pushing her three year old sister on the swing. Jane pushes too hard and her little sister Jacqueline flies off the swing. Jacqueline is not seriously hurt but Jane feels bad that her sister is crying. Jane also is worried that she will be in trouble with her mom for pushing the swing because she may only push it when a parent is watching. </i>Again, this example is false.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> It is very important that the special education teacher and team of psychologists, social workers, speech therapists, para-educators, and parents take the time to </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">reteach socially appropriate strategies for the special needs teen. Going back to that seven year old mentality, of not being a good loser and difficulty taking criticism from adults, even constructive criticism, coupled with misreading social cues and not reeducating a special needs teen, is a recipe for disaster. Sadly, the person who is a victim in the end might be the teen who in reality is a gentle soul, with a pure heart, who either never learned socially acceptable responses to visual and verbal cues or is in the process of learning them. It seems unfair that an innocent baby is born with special needs, grows up with a loving heart, only to be the victim of a social misreading that places him or her and another person or persons in jeopardy. Remember please if you are a parent or person working with a special needs teen, the importance and value of teaching and modelling age appropriate behaviors that will keep this good-natured teen safe. </span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-8951283174585651352016-04-07T17:14:00.001-07:002016-04-30T17:48:09.846-07:00How Far The World Really Goes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypBad6f91hMNDfA_9FRBVi_qOvQ0ud-vr7BgcKjfDfXb0JZbAcpF1zgMKZ0pJHJzdXr6UpeJ-Bcm1fB_Vf_hU461U4DOiL-E3enwHnKqmffZxjBhEAOe0gCapCO0Hh58iV2MrhIHPTGE/s1600/FotoJet+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhypBad6f91hMNDfA_9FRBVi_qOvQ0ud-vr7BgcKjfDfXb0JZbAcpF1zgMKZ0pJHJzdXr6UpeJ-Bcm1fB_Vf_hU461U4DOiL-E3enwHnKqmffZxjBhEAOe0gCapCO0Hh58iV2MrhIHPTGE/s400/FotoJet+Collage.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better she never knows</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> How far the world really goes...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better she only sees old...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> for her belongings to her are purely gold.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better she's never seen Parents who work...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> they wait for the check unlike a crook.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Her parents are home, they're drunk, they never cook.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better there's free meals in school,since now she can read.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better her parents can't read...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> She can a little, not enough to be freed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Her clothes are tattered, rarely clean, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> ...doesn't matter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">The colors are pretty pink, blue, purple, </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">..drabble.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better her hair is all knotted ... layers of hairspray to keep lice out ... </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> undoubted</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">More kids means more money. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> Don't worry honey. Brothers and sisters are built in friends</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> Maybe it's better they love to the ends </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Holidays are grand, people give this is </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> normal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> Mom and Dad are always cordial.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Thanksgiving turkey...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Christmas rum balls, cheap toys make everyone perky.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better she never knows how far the world really goes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Parents, kids, cats, dogs, mice, sleep on the floor,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">surrounded by trash, chip bags, beer bottles galore. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Maybe it's better she never knows how far the </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> world really goes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Life in this podunk town makes fewer foes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">The neighbors' life story is simply the same,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">as the little girl next door who isn't yet the one</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> to blame.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">So to those who know how far the world goes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> who never would wear tattered clothes,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Think of the children who will be lost forever </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">in filth, poor education, poverty, however....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">If those who know how far the world goes would take a few minutes to reach out and care </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"> Perhaps a little girl may someday dare</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">to reach beyond her podunk town</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">to find a world so sweet and sound</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">To learn that going to school was more than </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">free lunches...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">That book or two and that teacher who taught,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">Gave her a ticket to see past her zone...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">She saw the world...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">She came back to help her own.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-88861485898155412862016-03-08T16:24:00.001-08:002016-09-18T10:31:19.479-07:00Starting the School Day Right<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;"> I recently started teaching in a new school. I can only send praise to my predecessor. She was brilliant. Since I began my new assignment in an established classroom, I decided to not make any major changes until August when the new school year begins. The kids in this classroom already had a routine and a certain way of doing things. Instead of changing what they knew, I decided to change my ways to adapt to them. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKuqG1t0l76eZTQZGUPjUWV9qlo7nM3OHDn4SYiUrzrEKr0UPSKz5OZLknU1bmnmK6v12J3Mo56bTPubutytI-4jHGWNP33FtoeF9Ou3CrasFhcnqB5PcDjSjA-r7G1Hd4KO7eP4aups/s1600/IMG_9678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKuqG1t0l76eZTQZGUPjUWV9qlo7nM3OHDn4SYiUrzrEKr0UPSKz5OZLknU1bmnmK6v12J3Mo56bTPubutytI-4jHGWNP33FtoeF9Ou3CrasFhcnqB5PcDjSjA-r7G1Hd4KO7eP4aups/s320/IMG_9678.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> One of the most outstanding things my predecessor did was to start the students academic day with daily classroom news. First thing every morning after breakfast, my students begin by reading our classroom newspaper. The newspaper highlights what we are learning in school, upcoming events in school, real world news, what's for lunch and more. The newspaper doubles as a point card on the back to track the students behavior. The students bring their newspaper home every night so it is also an easy way to communicate with parents. There is a place for comments on the point card side so if a student does something really well, or something s/he shouldn't have done this can be written on the back side of the newspaper too.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Now this is where the true genius of the newspaper comes in: There is a joke in it everyday that the students must solve! There is a weekly joke person who's job is to find the daily joke for the newspaper. So now the teacher is linking reading, current events, challenges of the mind...and wait...there is more! The newspaper also has a wordsearch built in! Each day the students are asked to find five words present in the articles of the newspaper! This gives the students more reading power and vocabulary! What more can a teacher ask for than to have a meaningful activity every day to ease the students into their day of learning! So kudos to the teacher before me in this classroom who found a stress free way of starting the school day right! I sincerely praise your efforts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A Newspaper sample:</b></span><br />
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P.S. The names in the sample have been changed for anonymity.</div>
@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-19381075476156765472016-02-23T15:16:00.001-08:002016-02-23T15:16:43.038-08:00The House of Q's: Easy Crafting: Origami Dresses<a href="http://thehouseofqs.blogspot.com/2016/02/easy-crafting-origami-dresses.html?spref=bl">The House of Q's: Easy Crafting: Origami Dresses</a>: I have a new addiction and can thank the interwebs for it. This new addiction has prompted me to start another branch of the blog titled &q...@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-3263659758547201312016-02-07T12:55:00.000-08:002016-02-07T16:53:32.588-08:00The Trust Parents with a Disabled Child have for Professionals.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Over two decades ago, I joyously became pregnant with my first child. At this time, I was a youngish special education teacher, teaching in a private, residential school for children who were dually diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and emotional disturbance. Despite their disabilities which sometimes caused them to have episodes of impetuosity causing mayhem amongst themselves and others, I adored these children. They had the most outgoing and endearing personalities. Eventually all who work with these children learn their triggers and physical signs that precede their pernicious moments. We learn <i>tricks of the trade</i> that lessen the incidents of pandemonium. Oddly, it never occurred to me that I could have a disabled child. One would think that since this was my career path I would be fearful of having a disabled child. I however genuinely cared for these children. I saw them as unique individuals who made every day brighter. As Meryl Streep once said, "What makes you different or weird-that's your strength." She is right.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Since this was a residential setting, I rarely saw the parents. Some of them no longer had parents because they just couldn't handle their child's total uniqueness. Either way, I have to applaud these parents as I do any parent with a disabled child. When one has a disabled child, they are facing new ground of the unknown. Bookstores are filled with books on how to parent <i>normal</i> children. but not much is written on how to care for a disabled child. I can't begin to imagine the numbing fear of giving birth to a child who is disabled. These parents have no choice but to trust the professionals who are working with their children. Giving up that control has to be terrifying. Regardless of the situation parents love their babies. Eventually most parents learn all about their child through the trials and tribulations of raising them. Still, throughout their child's life, they must jump through hoops going to each new professional in their child's life, and again and again explaining all of the things that makes their child meet his or her maximum potential. Doing this again and again takes so much courage and strength. Each time, they are handing their "baby" over to someone they just met. Some parents can't handle this so they make the decision to let go and let those who they perceive as having more knowledge than they do become guardians to their child. Either way, courage and tenacity are involved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> All parents the fear of letting go. The fear of the first day of daycare, kindergarten, middle school, high school, and college. Imagine if your child can't speak clearly or at all. This magnifies the fear. Imagine too that your child perceives the world slightly differently than it actually is. What does a parent to then? I have a few bits of advice:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1) Keep the communication line between your child'</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> s professionals and yourself open. Have a journal that travels </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">between home and school. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2) Make frequent phone </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">calls. Ask the professional to call you when </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> changes in your child are noticed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3) Listen carefully to your child and their professional. If you have questions ask them. If you need a second opinion get one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">4) Don't be a bully. A parent who bullies makes everyone shut down including the child.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> 5</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">) Remember the child is at the heart of the matter. The professionals who work with your child dedicate their lives to this profession because they believe in making a difference for you, and your child.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> In the end, it's not only the parents with disabled children who have fear for their child. Parenting is difficult. There will be times in every parents life when they have to put their child in an unknown person's <i>capable</i> hands and trust them to give the best advice. Just remember as the parent, you may ask as many questions as you need to to get the right answer for your child. Also, not every professional will have the approach that your child needs, the professional already knows this, it's not a one size fits all world. Fear not getting second opinions. Do what is right for you and your child, while staying in control and thinking through your challenge in a respectful manner. In the end everyone will benefit from your diligence and conviction, especially your child. </span></div>
@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-29840164180315528972016-01-24T10:07:00.001-08:002016-01-24T20:12:53.712-08:00Reading Beyond the Classroom: The Reading Chain Challenge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">A little over a month ago I left my dream job to begin a new chapter in a similar position in a different state! I spent many sleepless nights trying to decide if this was the right thing to do. I fought myself because my whole life I generally took the road less travelled. This was once again, the road less travelled! I have always looked out for others before myself. I cheered for the underdog because I believe that all people deserve a chance in life no matter what their home circumstances are like. I grew up watching Walt Disney films where the underdog always wins. Now, I was leaving an amazing group of children who usually gave me their best work. Children who followed my every whim. Children who trusted me to take care of them and guide their education. In our short time together, we all became stars. We didn't sit quietly alone in our special education classroom. We emerged during our time together. We were in the newspaper several times and made television news on two stations. How did we do this? We did this by working hard for others and in the process building our own confidence and academic skills. We made memories that last a lifetime. I learned more from these kids than I ever did in any higher education classroom. In the end, I didn't want to be just one more person walking out of their lives. Saying goodbye was hard. As my assistant reminded us, this goodbye was forever. At the time I thought this word "forever" was going to break my heart! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> My first day in my new position, I was greeted by two amazing paraeducators and a new classroom of children. Beginning a new position in the middle of a school year is an unique challenge. My new students were unsure about me, rightfully so. I of course thought of the children that I left behind. I always say "once my student always my student". I found myself using many of the same techniques that I used in my previous position. Techniques that my former students helped me to hone. In my first month in my new position I have learned so much. I have learned, that just like students, teachers are always learning too. I still have so much to learn. I am grateful for this. I still get excited when learning new skills and techniques. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> It's been a month. My new students were curious about my former students. They asked lots of questions about them. In this month , I have gradually blended my brand of teaching to my new classroom. We decided to make a reading chain like the one my former students in room 215 have started. Then we decided to challenge the room 215 kids into a reading challenge to see which class can read the most books by the end of the school year! My new students in room 10 kept track of their books read this school year, so we made a reading chain like the one in room 215! The challenge is on! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "Forever" isn't forever! Two groups of teens who come from different worlds have come together to compete for the top reading title! The prize, a pizza party for the winning classroom. The real prize: teaching students that reading is fun and is a skill that takes us all beyond the classroom. The goal: to make better readers, one link at a time!</span></div>
@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-66681905179272569062015-12-13T08:46:00.000-08:002016-01-07T17:51:09.006-08:00Saying Good-bye is So Very Hard to Do<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">How do I say good-bye to kids that have been part of my every thought for the past three years? I have become a person in their lives that has not let them down. I have taught them that school is okay. That learning can happen and can even be fun! When we are in class, I think that for a little while we all forget our out of school circumstances. I think that we all have hope for brighter futures When we are together we work hard to make sense of the Common Core Standards in all of our subjects.We don't bad mouth the Common Core because there are many solid learning objectives in them. Objectives that may open our minds to think deeply and critically. Objectives that will keep the kids talking to each other long after the school day has ended. Isn't this what we want?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Tonight I am thinking critically and deeply. I didn't expect opportunity to knock mid school year. It's suppose to knock during the summer so there is a clear cut beginning and ending to the school year. Leaving mid school year seems unfair to my students but that's when my opportunity came. The trust that I have built with these students is partly due to the fact that I am always fair to "my kids". They are my kids! I teach them, I discipline them, I do laundry for them, I feed them, comb their hair, call their parents with good calls and sometimes not so good calls. Their families are my families too. I understand that raising a family is difficult and expensive, and more so if there is only one parent. We all do the best we can.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> So what do I do? Do I answer the door with opportunity knocking? Do I break the news to my kids that they have to finish the year with someone new, causing sadness and anxiety in all of us. Or, do I say no to this opportunity and stay here until June hoping that opportunity comes knocking at my door again. This decision doesn't affect only me, yet the decision is only mine to make.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Today I handed in my resignation. I had to do it quickly, without thinking too much about it. If I thought too much then I would have been overwhelmed with heartache over leaving a group of terrific kids! Quite honestly I learned more from them than they ever did from me. I have learned to never pass judgement on any of my students or their parents. Their biggest feat of the day is getting themselves to school. Outside of school they are often faced with adult problems and situations that deeply affect them but because they are children they are expected to go with the flow. School is their hope and mine that they can each ultimately find their own way with the skills they have learned in life and in school and run with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Four days left. I have seen signs that "my kids" are anxious with my departure. We have talked a lot about it. They know that I care deeply about them. They know that I expect their full cooperation with their new teacher. I am hoping that technology and the U.S. Postal Service can keep us all in touch for many years to come. I'm hoping that their new teacher and I can connect our classrooms via Skype and do a lesson together. Perhaps all of my kids can make new friends long distance. Isn't technology great?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Three and a half years ago, I took on a class full of holes and with my students, colleagues, and a few twitter friends made it whole. As I leave, it is my goal to find a way to keep each child in it whole. After I leave, I am no longer their teacher. I can only hope that I was able to plant enough seeds to keep these kids moving forward, beyond their personal circumstances, and to follow their wildest dreams! To the kids in room 215 a piece of my heart will always be with you.</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-44268227165273579112015-11-07T17:57:00.001-08:002015-11-08T10:45:27.128-08:00Reflection By a Special Education Teacher.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The older one gets in life, it seems like everything that has happened to the current point becomes more clearer. I'm elderly yet, but I believe that every experience good and challenging has brought me to the place I am today with greater awareness. I have worked in some form of education beginning before I left high school. Back then, I was chosen to train and work with a young autistic child every Friday night. I knew from the moment I met this child that I was meant to work in Special Education. I pursued a B.S. in Special Education N-12, and obtained an Pennsylvania Instructional II teaching certificate. More recently I earned a M,Ed. in Literacy 5-12. It's my belief that education is non-ending. We learn new things every day. I have learned from coursework, reading, professional development, but most importantly from my students. As a teacher, I have learned to listen to my students auditorily and visually. To learn, a child must be heard. When a child acts out or shuts down it's because I am not reaching him or her in the way that the child needs, it is therefore my job to find the right approach or strategy that speaks to this child. I value each child, I will teach each child the skills that s/he needs, I will advocate for each child, and I will write appropriate IEP's for each child. At the end of the day I will take the whole of my experiences and reflect on what I can do the next day to make that day better for every child in my classroom. </span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-61768911170430585582015-11-07T17:09:00.000-08:002015-11-07T17:44:10.231-08:00Special Olympics: Passing the Torch to the Happiest Place on Earth<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Smiles, sneakers, color coordinated t-shirt, cheers, flapping, dancing, hugs, singing, anticipation, pure joy, pride. The chill is in the air. Happy people are everywhere. Confidence is shown in the smiles on everyone's face. There's not a moment of doubt. Hearts are filled with the anticipation of success. Everyone's a winner tonight. Everyone from the parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, friends, teachers, coaches, athletes, aides, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, entertainers, politicians, fans, my son, my students, my colleagues, and me!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Where am I you ask? The New York State Special Olympics opening ceremonies at the Glens Falls Civic Center. What a night! A huge stadium filled with fans carrying homemade posters. The floor filled with empty folding chairs waiting for the enthusiastic athletes to arrive. A stage decorated with colorful flags and banners, giant screens for video footage, and a grand torch unlit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Months of planning went into this big Special Olympic weekend. My small class of six was contacted last spring to head up the Special Olympic Icon Sales for the Whitehall, New York. My students take every task seriously. We watched a documentary o</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">n our smart board to see what special olympics is all about. My kids wanted to help our New York athletes. We made a bulletin board to support our friends and to advertise our icon sales.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> As always, our small school supported our efforts. Our hearts were made bigger from the generosity of the students, faculty, and community of the Whitehall Central School District. One tiny student who barely spoke three years ago became our Special Olympic Icon sale leader! She eagerly spoke over the loudspeaker during morning announcements to announce our sales. She bravely approached our new Principal and other faculty members for their help. She sat day in and day out at our icon sales table! She became our Special Olympic hero! That's the great thing about Special Olympics: we all become a little braver, a little more out-going, and win or lose, we are all winners. Then again, Special Olympics is all about heart.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> My first experience with Special Olympics was in Pennsylvania at the Devereux Foundation back in the 1980's. I helped to train athletes and went with them to their games. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Seeing my students, train, compete, and then win olympic medals just brought tears to my eyes. Seeing them stand on the podium with the National Anthem playing and pride in their face and stance was truly priceless. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> On October 16th my thoughts were with my former Devereux students, my current Whitehall students, our generous benefactors, and with my son Nate who was anticipating his very first Special Olympic games with me, as a fan. Tonight I was passing the torch to my son enlightening his heart with love for the Special Olympic games!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Finally, it was time for the ceremonies to begin. Bagpipes were played. Special Olympic athletes entered behind colorful banners representing each team. They waved and smiled to the crowds of fans. My son declared, "Mom this is the happiest place on earth. Thank you for bring me." It truly was the happiest place on earth. We listened an angel sing: Amber Macintosh sang the National Anthem, she herself is a Special Olympic Athlete. What an incredible voice! We listened to Senator Betty Little and Assemblyman Stec, along with other dignitaries speak to the athletes. We watched several dance and singing routines to honor the athletes. Then finally the torch run with police officers and correction officers. The torch was lit! The announcement "Let the Games Begin". The Special Olympic torch had been passed making the Glens Falls Civic Center filled with love for the Special Olympics the happiest place on earth!</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-49154650497565146412015-10-11T18:21:00.000-07:002019-04-25T15:04:06.336-07:00Bring History Alive with Art and Drama<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b> </b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b> </b> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. (Abraham Lincoln) Three years and one and a half months ago I began teaching in a 12:1:1 classroom. I had twelve little faces and three aides staring up at me day after day, all day, to improve their skill and knowledge in: ELA. math, reading, science, social studies, and life skills. I had an eclectic group of children with multiple disabilities with a wonderful common strength...They all wanted to learn! They didn't know what a continent was, or a state, they couldn't tell me what their own state capital was. They did know who Abraham Lincoln was but only as the President with the tall hat. I quickly learned that teaching them was a balancing act of knowing when they were best at doing seat work, when they needed to get up and move, when they needed a brain break or a snack. I planned each lesson accordingly. I rarely heard moans and groans from kids who didn't want to learn. My runners stopped running from class. The kids quickly learned that their classroom was their safe place where they could be themselves but did have to follow the parameters of our "point system". There was only one part of the day where "my kids" lost interest...Social Studies"! Social Studies came right after lunch. My kids just wanted to chill out but I had to teach them social studies!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Social Studies became my biggest challenge! Social Studies kept me up at night! Social Studies was my tempest in a teapot! I tried teaching map skills but even my aide moaned! We did a study of New York State which was beneficial but was not part of the regular curriculum. So during the holidays, we tried "Christmas Around the World." My idea was at least they will learn about different countries! We made paper suitcases. I gave each student a passport with their picture in it. I had different stamps for each country. Sounds like fun, right? It was, but phenomenal and memorable it was not! My kids still couldn't differentiate between a continent, country, state, city...town! We did activities to rectify this but it only helped short term.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> So, I went back to the beginning. I triple checked the NY standards for their grades (6th and 7th). I decided to find a way for them to learn American History. Sixth graders were suppose to learn Global History but how can they learn Global History when they can't even tell me that Albany is the capital of New York State! I decided to teach American History and tie Global History inasmuch as possible. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> It was mid-school year when we got started. I taught my students how to write two column, guided notes. We began by studying explorers which definitely included Global History. We made a growing timeline along the wall. Each student did a report on an a assigned reporter. They loved going to the library to do their research. They felt important because just like their peers they had a research project.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> There are two best parts to my story, the first one is coming now. Both best parts are important because it is me that learned the lesson! When we got to the colonies, I decided that we shall make a model of Jamestown with popsicle sticks. The clouds that had hung over my social studies class all year floated away and the sun appeared! My kids loved building Jamestown! They used milk cartons from lunch covered in pretzel sticks for buildings. They used Quaker round oatmeal boxes to build the bulwarks. They even landscaped their structure. Best of all because of their intense hands-on learning, they could name the buildings and sections of the fort!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowing at Jamestown by using microwaved Ivory soap from our science experiment!</td></tr>
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It's currently year three with my kiddos! We now <span style="color: red;">love</span> social studies! Let me tell you why! This is my second best part! We have recently been learning about the "French and Indian" War. I continue to use two-column, guided notes with blanks with the first letter of the word. The kids love to try to be the first one to guess what goes in the blank! When they do, they get extra points. I read the "stories" from their actual history textbook. I very simply act out the lesson and then repeat it for the kids to act out! I then do very rudimentary drawings on my whiteboard to bring history to life! The kids laugh at my lack of artistic talent, as I joke that I draw better than the art teacher! All information taught is straight from their history book, broken down in simpler language. The kids get it! They can repeat the stories! Just ask them why it wasn't a good idea for the British to wear red coats! They can tell you that and more! Social Studies (History) has become a game where we all win!</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-800463894560375662015-09-20T16:56:00.001-07:002015-10-12T15:56:52.944-07:00Never Give Up!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When days are rough, I sometimes need to remember my own motto, "NEVER GIVE UP"! I learned this motto on the first day, of my first, full time special education teaching job way back in 1984. First jobs toward one's career are the foundation for the rest of our days until we one day retire. I'm not anywhere near retirement, nor do I want to be, but my motto still rings true, "Never Give Up."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Today is a particularly difficult day for me tied in to difficult, weeks, months, and years. It's a personal journey that isn't at the point of sharing and doubt it ever will be. Those who know of it, tell me to "Give up". The thing is, I can't. If I give up I'm only failing myself, failing the other, and not fulfilling my motto of, "Never Give Up"! As in my first special education job, I have often received children who appeared so lost that there was no way to help them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In my first job, I taught 8 boys all under the age of 16. I was also home caretaker for four of the boys. Since this was a residential setting, this meant that I had to come to work an hour early to help the boys clean-up, get dressed, and eat breakfast. All four boys were basically non-verbal, one had a few words. They were also both self-abusive and sometimes aggressive. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> On my first day, I went with my Principal to meet my new students. While walking through the boys' residential home unit we found one, a rather large boy, about 5'5" weighing nearly 200 pounds, kneeling on the steps leading to the second floor, leaning on his elbows. He was jabbering in his own language. He was blocking the stairway from both directions. Since this was a locked unit, the principal simply said this is "Douglas".:" He never stays with the group. If he leaves, let him go. He'll hurt you if you don't. He can't get out the facility is locked and fenced in." I simply nodded. I wasn't agreeing with her, I was matter-of-factly processing what she said. I finished the day, meeting all of my students, and colleagues. The school had two full time teachers, and an art and physical education teacher that traveled between schools. There were numerous house mothers/aides, a cook, and two laundry persons. This was not a job for the light-hearted. This was also not a job that I ever saw myself in, but here I was and I was determined to make a difference in these kids lives. I was going to figure out "Big Doug", and make sure he became part of the group.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> That first night, I couldn't sleep. I read the boys IEPs (Individual Education Plans) carefully. It appeared that all kinds of people came in and out of these boys lives. I literally had the kids that nobody else wanted. The last teacher was let go for tying the children to chairs with shoe strings! My mind kept wandering back to Doug and what brought him here and why he did he not want to be with people. Oddly, our birthdate was the same! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Day two began bright and early. I had to be at school before 7:00 am. The other employees were not responsive to me. I guess they saw too many other people come and go. I found Big Doug staring out his bedroom window. He was having a full conversation, complete with hand gestures, and head shakes all by himself. He was so adorable that I had to chuckle. I gingerly approached him because I didn't want him to bolt. I simply placed my hand gently on his shoulder and listened as if I understood. He didn't flee. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Eventually I had all four of my boys up, cleaned and dressed. My self-abusive autistic guy scratched me up pretty good right down my neck when I removed his mitts to get him dressed. He was a tough one, but we made it through. I held Big Doug's hand all the way to the breakfast table down stairs. We made it! The table was U shaped with Doug sitting in the U against the wall so he couldn't escape. Doug would sit in his chair while eating and bounce up and down while giggling. He was precious! After the boys finished eating, I cleaned them up at the table. We then exited to go to the school house which was directly next to the residential house. Doug made a break for it when we went outside! He ran to picnic table put his knees on the bench and his elbows on the top and carried on his one man conversations! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I could see Doug from my classroom window. As I worked with my students 3 or 4 at a time I watched Doug walk between the picnic table to the fence all the while carrying on a full conversation. Finally a friendly adult, face, when the Physical education teacher came. He helped me collect Doug to get him to the gymnasium for gym class. After gym class, I fed the boys lunch. We then went upstairs to their living quarters for self-help skills (Brushing and flossing teeth, combing hair, clipping finger and toe nails and washing up.) Initially, I lost Doug on the stairs everyday, on our way to the boys living quarters! After self-help skills we had another class in the school house Doug would stay glued to the stairs! At the end of my work day I would bring "my boys" to the living room in the residential house to be with their night-time recreation counselor. He too told me don'y worry about Doug, that's just him, he does this to everybody.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I did worry, and I did think. In fact Doug is all I thought about. I couldn't give up on this kid or his peers! Giving up on any of them just wasn't an option! Days went by,some better than others. I was scratched on a daily basis by my self-abusive, autistic boy with mitts, "Henry". Henry too had horrible days where he'd get his mitts and helmet off and totally self abuse himself. He'd bang his head on the wall, poke his thumb nails into his hears and slap his face repeatedly. I'd have to restrain him and/or bring him to our padded time out room. When doing this the other boys would watch an educational video within sight in the living room. Doug would usually go the the stairs on his knees and converse with himself. I always made sure that the boys knew I was there for them too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Weeks went by. My plan after much thinking, was that when Doug left the group, I would take the group to him. No matter where Doug landed, inside, outside, rain, snow or shine, we'd go with our school supplies to Doug. We of course dressed weather appropriately and made sure that Doug was too! We did many lessons at the picnic table and on the stairs! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> As months passed, Doug greeted me with a hug in the morning! It was "our special time" to chat. He'd tell me stories and I'd respond with appropriate gestures and voice inflections! He'd laugh and I'd laugh, for real, this kid was so funny and good-hearted. Eventually Doug would take my hand. On the occasions he would bolt,he would willingly come back to class. I would go get him with my hand held out and he would grasp it. He would talk all the way to class. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Now for the next to best part of my saga and the reason why, "I NEVER GIVE UP." Doug went months without leaving the group. So the group was allowed to go on field trips! I passed a driving test to drive the school van. We always took an aide with us. We went to the Philadelphia Zoo, Longwood Gardens, Special Olympics, the Strasburg Railroad, The Jersey shore to my house to make a spaghetti dinner and more. Sometimes we just went out for ice cream. It didn't matter, Doug was with us! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <span style="color: blue; font-weight: bold;">The best part...</span>Doug didn't need to be in a locked facility any more! Doug got to move on to another residential unit with out fences all the way around! His mother could come to visit and actually take him out. Doug was happy. Everyone in Doug's life was happy. I was happy too. Every now and then I would see Doug on campus and he would bolt, right to me with a great big Doug, bear hug! Then back to his group he'd go! My motto is, "NEVER GIVE UP". Small steps for some are miracles for others.</span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-57474854288677049722015-09-13T15:33:00.000-07:002015-09-14T02:50:07.299-07:00Making Memories Back to School Schultüten a German Tradition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Every year parents,kids, and teachers are anxious and elated over the first day of school. It's funny but the air even feels different like something big, and special is about to happen. Children get new clothes, sneakers, back packs, and school supplies. Parents run around checking their kids lists to make sure that they have gotten everything they need for a successful start to the school year. Then it finally happens, day one! The bus pulls up, the children get on and are taken away for their first day of school. Anxious parents and caregivers leave the bus stop waving goodbye with hopes of great things for their children. I suppose memories are made but perhaps more could be done to make even more positive memories!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> This summer I traveled to Germany to visit my daughter, her husband, and my daughter's new family. We were welcomed with open arms. We stayed at my son-in-laws parents home for the first few days. My daughter kept asking her mother-in-law, "When can we watch the first year video?" Her husband not so eagerly added, "Can we not?". Finally we did! I swear it was the most amazing instructional video I had ever seen! It was a video of my son-in-law at age 6 in his first year of school after kindergarten. It was almost a grand celebration for all of the first year students to be welcomed to their education! Parents were included to take part in the festivities. The older children came and read to the new students. Smiles were everywhere as the older children unknowingly modeled positive school behavior and learning to the younger students. Next they did a round of math lessons using musical instruments to demonstrate the counts of each number in simple math equations. Before the video finished I realized that multiple modes for learning were used when the older children taught the younger children. They used sight, hearing, tactile-kinesthetic, and taste. All of the children were happy, proud, and their parents were too. As the children left school they were all handed different, colorful cones! At this point I didn't know what they were, but I knew that I wanted one! It also became me instead of my daughter who started begging, "Can we see the first year video again?"!</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYawCZTK-KIOYkivUCINpqWFVuPUlfEe5lgTqXQnmDbapPURZn-pX31EnXG8o0LtT1bV7SThfGZL09pDdtk0ZvAeBx3apDiQOanWLqL3F-Li_ccx6fDPdPYMFZdxpjVQqOesuJzRztaE/s1600/IMG_8267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYawCZTK-KIOYkivUCINpqWFVuPUlfEe5lgTqXQnmDbapPURZn-pX31EnXG8o0LtT1bV7SThfGZL09pDdtk0ZvAeBx3apDiQOanWLqL3F-Li_ccx6fDPdPYMFZdxpjVQqOesuJzRztaE/s200/IMG_8267.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> I soon learned that these colorful cones are called "<span style="line-height: 23.4px;">schultüten" . I was right, I would want one! They are filled with school supplies, candy, and small toys. They are typically given to first graders in Germany. On their first day of primary school, children are brought to school by their parents where they are welcomed by their teacher and new classmates. Just like in the video, there is a small two hour welcoming party, with songs, poems, and theatre which are performed by the older children. </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Through a bit of research, I have learned that the tradition of </span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">schultüten dates back to 1810. As the legend states, there is a tree at the teacher's home with a decorated cone on it for every first year child. After the tree fully matures, it is time for school to start. In the old days, it was the godparents who gave the children the colorful cone-shaped </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">schultüten at school. Today it is the parents who actually fill each </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 23.4px;">schultüte for their child. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"> I can only wish of having a </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">schultüte tree at my home. I knew that my middle schoolers would love hearing about this German Tradition and getting their own </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">schultüte. So I decided to make them for my students for the first day of school! I rolled old, colorful posters carefully and gently taped and stapled them into cone shapes. Next I filled each one with school supplies, snacks, and trinkets. After filling them I carefully cut and folded tissue paper and glued it to the wide end of the cone. I then sealed the cone with colorful ribbon making my </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">schultüten complete! Each </span></span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">schultüte had identical contents so that no one would feel left out!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"> The best part of this whole project was hearing squeals of delite and the thank yous! Every child chose to keep their </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 23.4px;">schultüte intact to bring it home to show their parents. So after opening them, we gently refilled them and replaced the closure ribbon for the trip home. It's a memory that my students will remember and better yet it connects them globally with the children in Germany. </span><span style="line-height: 23.4px;"> </span></span><br />
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@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-59196456741980451082015-09-13T10:52:00.001-07:002015-09-13T10:52:40.141-07:00The House of Q's: Southern Spotlight- Jade Beckwith<a href="http://thehouseofqs.blogspot.com/2015/09/southern-spotlight-jade-beckwith.html?spref=bl">The House of Q's: Southern Spotlight- Jade Beckwith</a>: Hey Y'all! One of the best things about blogging is getting to share the interesting stories of my readers and friends. We all come f...@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-34155559397090883892015-08-20T16:46:00.000-07:002015-08-24T14:33:16.229-07:00When Reading Doesn't Work!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJQJgTrFBLC6GJPtKumGVa_IS7EbkXzpON8d4_LsZZP1FSLSnVsE6ouvuCtRt7bnhyphenhyphenWC0_jrn7uUXxfLpSUPiQxXFROVtFXt3q5PPAUKxR_rKOxOsA0RNt0xVW1LYftejq19p-xEeVY8/s1600/Reading+Collage%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJQJgTrFBLC6GJPtKumGVa_IS7EbkXzpON8d4_LsZZP1FSLSnVsE6ouvuCtRt7bnhyphenhyphenWC0_jrn7uUXxfLpSUPiQxXFROVtFXt3q5PPAUKxR_rKOxOsA0RNt0xVW1LYftejq19p-xEeVY8/s400/Reading+Collage%2521.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> On July 22nd I jetted off on a three week journey that has forever changed my life! Due to flight delays and flight changes my luggage was lost before I even left Trenton, New Jersey! Still I was on an adventure of a lifetime so quickly decided that I wasn't going to let exhaustion and lost luggage ruin my trip! I was on my way to Germany to meet my daughter's new family and to share in the joy of her marriage. I was on a Lufthansa flight with a cozy feather pillow and perfectly coiffed stewardesses. Though the flight to Munich was was aesthetically pleasing, it was very hot to the point that I was soaking wet! I was in the middle section between larger men on both sides, one with his elbow jabbed in my side throughout the flight. His English was about as good as my German so we really didn't communicate! I had to go to the bathroom for the longest time but since the men were sleeping, I was polite and kept my discomfort to myself! I found myself thinking about my students who have so much difficulty reading English. One student in particular who cannot read, write, or clearly communicate in English. Now I was in his shoes! I am unable to read, write, or speak well in German! So since I was going to be in foreign countries for the next three weeks I decided to consciously think about what it must be like on a daily basis for my students who have so much difficulty reading, writing and communicating in what to them is like a foreign language. This is my saga of when "reading doesn't work"! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> From Munich I flew to Frankfurt where my daughter and son-in-law would clearly know how to find my luggage! The problem was that the Frankfurt Airport is <b>HUGE</b> so knowing where to find my daughter and son-in-law was an issue! So, I decided to be self-sufficient and go in search of my missing luggage. I found a "polizist" (policeman) who surely could point me in the right direction! He kindly stamped my passport but didn't see my dilemma as much of a priority! So, I used my visual skills to go toward the way he was pointing and found the baggage area! I searched the baggage area high and low keenly using my visual skills to find my luggage! I looked at every black suitcase I saw, none were mine! I did find my daughter and son-in-law though, a definite perk in my frazzled state!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> An hour later, my luggage was still missing! All three of us asked questions; they in German and me in English but in the end we were running in circles to all of the same places. I thought how exhausted my students must feel by the end of a day! Just when everyone was about to give up, I saw a woman who worked for my original airline, U. S. Airlines. We gave each other the universal symbol of kindness, a <b>smile.</b> In English I carefully showed her all of my documentation from the beginning of my trip until now. She made phone calls. She learned that the luggage was in the airport. She sent us to a place we had all ready been. It was now closed! We then saw an elderly man in work clothes with suitcases. We asked him if he knew where suitcases were kept that were unclaimed. He did! He had a key! He unlocked a door and there sat my suitcase! I hugged him! I don't think that my students would have been able to navigate this system. They would have given up in frustration and possibly cried. It was rough for me with two others helping me. Reading and communicating were key components of finding my luggage. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> In the next few weeks with my daughter at my side, we traveled in Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands. Luckily, my daughter is fluent in German so I had assistance in most things that we did! My only real difficulty was in Berlin at a bathroom with no visual aides. There I had to decide between <i>herren </i>(men) and <i>damen</i> (women). Again, I relied on my visual senses and waited until a man came out of the door marked <i>herren</i> before entering the door marked <i>damen!</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5ryiYp0x314gJ6H34Pv0LbL9DXLldoatwnfGzoyaIa6Ubs2qbk33EQ-mjR4wOOsae4_Ryj8s09MFpB1pskuNaKTjyl8huVlWk4_o5MKrEOllMHtxmQF62Xxz99uszO8s98tffeBiPOA/s1600/Herren+and+damen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5ryiYp0x314gJ6H34Pv0LbL9DXLldoatwnfGzoyaIa6Ubs2qbk33EQ-mjR4wOOsae4_Ryj8s09MFpB1pskuNaKTjyl8huVlWk4_o5MKrEOllMHtxmQF62Xxz99uszO8s98tffeBiPOA/s200/Herren+and+damen.jpg" width="200" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i> </i>My conclusion in my personal "social experiment" on the importance of reading is this: Life is not impossible without being able to read or write but everything takes longer because it must be thoughtfully done. Also, one must be able to communicate even if in rudimentary ways. Smiles and hand gestures, and pictures go a long way when trying to communicate with someone with a different language than your own. The pierogi lady in Poland became so much kinder to us after our second visit when we all learned to communicate better through smiles and visuals! In the end it was hard to say <i>zegnaj (goodbye) to her. So, as a special education teacher it is my duty to not only teach my students to read and write but how to communicate when they can't read and write. When reading doesn't work then tolerance in getting your point across to others is essential. </i></span></div>
@mittaubinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11694410098502900694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4493488169284867290.post-21574997287938915512015-07-12T21:23:00.000-07:002015-07-12T21:45:52.935-07:00Fun Ways to Motivate Readers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">It is my steadfast belief that reading everyday improves literacy. I began reading to my own children as soon as we were home from the hospital! Crazy, maybe, but my children were solid readers well before kindergarten. Not all children are born natural readers. Some children really have to work hard at learning how to read, for multiple reasons. As an educator, I take reading very seriously, as I should! As a special education teacher in a 12:1:1 classroom, I can tell you that most of my students struggle with reading in one way or another. Some with decoding, others with comprehension, some with both. I can also tell you that these kids work hard everyday to improve their skill at reading. They also all love reading!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I love coming up with creative ways to help children become motivated readers. Some kids are intrinsically motivated, others need a little push. I guess I am the reading pusher! Sounds scary but it's all good fun! Over the years I've developed many ways to motivate children to read, even children who like to read enjoy a new "gimmick" every now and then! So, here are a few ways to make reading fun!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1UOfWA7xwrngE7v5NN_i_ntUITyDA7JbzvDKlgvcikyoWpIKp4_K10yn70ocF00FWwOc3R-RE2Eq93ladN8HJdrAG2mxxhCxcj29c2c-syehbd81olPUSj_X30YsXTqKo95xtJKS8Gf0/s1600/IMG_4328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1UOfWA7xwrngE7v5NN_i_ntUITyDA7JbzvDKlgvcikyoWpIKp4_K10yn70ocF00FWwOc3R-RE2Eq93ladN8HJdrAG2mxxhCxcj29c2c-syehbd81olPUSj_X30YsXTqKo95xtJKS8Gf0/s200/IMG_4328.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: magenta; font-weight: bold;">1) The Reading Chain Challenge: </span>The reading chain challenge begins on the very first day of school! Everyone in the classroom including the aides, students, and me are invited to participate. It's an honor system so all books read count, even those read at home! After a book is completed the reader needs to fill out a pre-cut strip </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">of paper that includes their name, the date, the book title, and the author. If the children are young or unable to write, a note from Mom, Dad, or their guardian works too. Each strip is then added to a chain that we attempt to get all the way around the classroom. This year we made it about half-way around the room. As a class we read 233 books this year! On the last day of school the strips are tallied and the person who read the most books wins a sizable prize! This year's winner read 35 books. The runner-up read 34 books! The race was so close! This strategy can be adapted at home. Imagine the great chain that could adorn your den or child's bedroom.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQALhJ82OP1IcFPucjx4ET1y_m4KUJrm31p2l0v49AQ2z3Fd9MCesucSWsK8tyaup57QrijaiVsn-U-IYwNW7K4ImgGmUMeXtD2jadtr4ft5zeGReBIYAmvn0jk9Dl7L66VTxL91nAs4/s1600/IMG_4330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQALhJ82OP1IcFPucjx4ET1y_m4KUJrm31p2l0v49AQ2z3Fd9MCesucSWsK8tyaup57QrijaiVsn-U-IYwNW7K4ImgGmUMeXtD2jadtr4ft5zeGReBIYAmvn0jk9Dl7L66VTxL91nAs4/s200/IMG_4330.JPG" width="150" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red;">2) The New Year Challenge...read fifteen books in 2015:</span> </b>Just in cast the <i>Reading Chain Challenge</i> didn't give out a reward quickly enough, there is the 15 in 15 <i>New Year Challenge!</i> This challenge begins on the first day back to school after the holiday school break. The goal: To read 15 books before the last day of school in June. The Prize: A <span style="color: red;">BIG </span>"Symphony" with a round of applause! A <i>big symphony</i> is a large size chocolate bar from Hershey. Some students earned more than one Symphony with a round of applause! In this challenge, for each book read, the students had to write a short book report and draw an illustration. I keep track of the number of books read in a wall display (shown in the picture) with big numbers to remind everyone to read! I also use this challenge for "early finishers" who need a task to do to fill-in time while their classmates finish work they have all ready completed. This challenge is easily adaptable for home use as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">3) Balloon Pop: </span></span><span style="color: cyan;"> </span></b>Balloon Pop is a motivational reading strategy that I enjoy using in the summertime but it can be used anytime during the year! I write the names of all of my kids favorite books on to tiny strips of paper (cut up sticky notes work well); I fold the paper and place it into a balloon. I then blow the balloon up and place the balloons into a basket or bucket. When reading time comes the child chooses a balloon and pops it! They can pop-it any way that's safe, stomping on it, sitting on it or with a fork or pin. Never ever let a child pop a balloon with their teeth because this can be a chocking hazard. I would of course suggest adult supervision, especially with younger children. This is a fun, memorable way to enjoy reading time!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the end, the only thing that matters is to keep reading! It's fun to motivate readers. Reading provides a valuable hobby that promotes literacy. When done at home with the parent reading together creates a bond that lasts a lifetime. A child that reads will be an <span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;">adult who reads. Have fun reading!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;"><u style="background-color: #d9d2e9;">Book Review:</u></span></h2>
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<u style="background-color: #d9d2e9; font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">Diary of a Wimpy Villager</u><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; font-weight: normal;"> by: Cube Kid. This is a self-published book for Kindle. It is a diary of a twelve year old minecraft villager, named Runt. Runt wants to be a warrior. The characters in this story are engaging. Kids think it's funny. In the end kids want more because <u>Diary of a Wimpy Villager</u> is a cliffhanger! In my opinion this is always good, because it keeps kids reading! </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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