In this episode, we welcome back Ashley Lutz to discuss the importance of CORE vocabulary in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE). Ashley shares her expertise on incorporating play to enhance learning, using visuals effectively, and modeling CORE vocabulary for students. Join us for practical tips, success stories, and a special freebie that will support your classroom implementation.

In this episode you will learn:

• The essentials of CORE vocabulary and its importance

• Enhancing learning through play

• Effective use of visuals to support communication

• Practical tips for modeling and practicing CORE vocabulary

• Overcoming challenges and ensuring consistency at home

Links and Resources

How to Use Core Vocabulary in the Classroom BlogFREEBIE: Top Core Vocabulary Words to Use

Connect with Ashley from Spedtacular Days

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If you are anything like me, you can't survive without your paraprofessionals. They are absolutely essential to everything that happens inside my classroom. But sometimes, we fall into routines that are not effective or that are not maximizing their benefits.

In today's episode I'm sharing practical tips for paraprofessionals working in special education. Whether you're new to the role or looking to enhance your skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you succeed

In this episode you will learn:

• How to understand your role in the classroom

• How to communicate effectively with the classroom teacher

• A few must-have behavior management strategies

• Professional development ideas just for you

Links and Resources

Paraprofessional Training Manual

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

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If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In this episode, we welcome back Heather C. to discuss effective strategies for teaching writing in special education. Heather shares her expertise on Predictable Chart Writing (PCW) and integrating Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to support diverse learners. Tune in to learn about engagement techniques, customization for different needs, and practical tips for getting started with these methods.

In this episode you will learn:

• Creative ways to keep students engaged and motivated

• How to adapt PCW for students with varying needs and abilities

• Success stories and memorable moments from Heather's experience

• Top tips for teachers new to PCW and AAC

Links and Resources

AAC and Predictable Chart Writing Strategies BlogFREE: 4 Weeks of PCW Lesson PlansPredictable Chart Writing Curriculum

Connect with Heather

Full Sped Ahead WebsiteFull Sped Ahead InstagramFull Sped Ahead Facebook

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In this episode, Dawn Ellis shares essential strategies for setting up your paraprofessional team for success right from the start. Learn how to establish clear expectations, communicate effectively, and provide comprehensive training that empowers your paras to thrive in their roles.

In this episode you will learn:

• The importance of setting clear roles and responsibilities for paraprofessionals.
• Effective communication strategies to maintain a cohesive team.
• Comprehensive training techniques that cover behavior management, instructional support, and more.
• Creating a supportive team environment that fosters collaboration and respect.

Links and Resources

Summer Challenge Facebook GroupParaprofessional Training Manual

Connect with Dawn

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Subscribe

Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Comprehensive curriculum planning is a written plan that guides the design of learning and development goals for children, the experiences they will have to achieve those goals, and how adults will support their learning. But how do you start? What do you include in a comprehensive curriculum plan?

In this week's episode I am sharing exactly how you create a comprehensive curriculum plan and the things that you should focus on the most.

In this episode you will learn:

• The basics of curriculum planning

• How to start your curriculum planning

• Tools and resources needed for curriculum planning

Links and Resources

Special Education Lesson Plan TemplatesSummer Launchpad Training

Connect with Dawn

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Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

This episode dives deep into common challenges faced by special education teachers when traditional teaching methods stop producing results. We explore signs of ineffective strategies, introduce fresh approaches, and invite listeners to join our free summer training.

Are you ready to take a deep dive into common challenges faced by special education teachers in the classroom? Sometimes traditional teaching methods stop producing results and you have to pivot.

In this episode we are talking about ineffective strategies, introducing fresh approaches and sharing some exciting opportunities for this summer.

In this episode you will learn:

• How to identify when teaching methods aren't working.

• Strategies to reassess and improve your educational approach.

• Tips on integrating innovative teaching methods.

• Exclusive insights into our upcoming free summer training program.

Links and Resources

Summer Challenge Group

Connect with Dawn

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TpT Store

Subscribe

Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Templates are designed to make life easier…something we all need in the special education classroom, am I right? And if you are anything like me, the more templates you can use the better…why recreate the wheel every time you have to send that email asking for input?

In this week's episode I'm sharing all about the templates that I use. I will explain why I think templates are important, the types of templates I have found useful and how you can use them in your own room.

In this episode you will learn:

• The benefits of using templates

• Real world applications for templates

• How my summer training will help you with templates and more!

Links and Resources

Join the Summer ChallengeJoin the Waitlist for The Exceptional Collective

Connect with Dawn

Find me on IG

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Etsy Shop

TpT Store

Subscribe

Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Ever taught a lesson that was a total flop? You found your students unengaged, the goals of the lesson were just off and everything seemed to go wrong. It happens…to all of us! But there are things that you can do if this seems to be happening to you on a more regular basis.

In this week's episode I'm sharing three things to consider

In this episode you will learn:

• Signs Your Current Methods May Not Be Working
• Rethinking Your Approach
• Practical Tips for a Teaching Revamp
• Introduction to Free Summer Training

Links and Resources

Join the Summer ChallengeJoin the Waitlist for The Exceptional Collective

Connect with Dawn

Find me on IG

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Etsy Shop

TpT Store

Subscribe

Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Dr. Christine Reeve is a seasoned educator and a leader in developing strategies and resources for students with autism. With a passion ignited by her extensive experience, she founded Autism Classroom Resources, a platform dedicated to supporting educators and families.

In this week's episode she is sharing all of her knowledge with us, including some incredible tips for those new teachers.

In this episode you will learn:

• The journey that led Dr. Reeve to specialize in autism education.

• Key strategies for setting up an autism-friendly classroom environment.

• Techniques for managing challenging behaviors and promoting positive outcomes.

• The importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and support staff.

• Effective methods for integrating social skills development into daily activities.

• How to create an inclusive classroom culture that fosters belonging.

• Recommended resources and professional development opportunities for educators looking to deepen their understanding of autism.

Links and Resources

Autism Classroom ResourcesFree Resources LibraryDays of the Week Free Response CardsBlog on Autism Classroom SetupResources for Setting Up ClassroomsSpecial Educator AcademyThe National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence & PracticeThe Autism Standards Project

Connect with Dr. Reeve

Facebook

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Subscribe

Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Welcome to Episode 214 of "Be The Exception In Special Education," where we dive into essential end-of-year activities for special educators. Host Dawn Ellis guides you through a strategic approach to close the school year with strength and prepare for the next. Whether you're tidying documents or reflecting on the year's progress, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring insights.

What You'll Learn:

• Top 10 End-of-Year Tasks: Understand the critical actions special educators should take to finish the year strong.

• Organizational Strategies: Tips on organizing physical and digital spaces to ensure a smooth transition into the next school year.

• Professional and Personal Reflection: Guidance on how to reflect on the past year and plan for professional development over the summer.

• Appreciation Techniques: Ideas for showing gratitude to support staff, co-teachers, and students.

• Done-For-You Resources: Discover ready-to-use resources available in Dawn's TpT shop to simplify your end-of-year preparations.

Links and Resources

Summer Resources for the Special Education Classroom

Connect with Dawn

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Subscribe

Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don't miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Leave a Review

If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!