Intervention Linky!

I am linking up with Daina from Sticky Notes & Glitter as she hosts An Apple a Day Weekly Idea Share~Intervention.  Since my classroom is made up of Special Education/Title 1 at-risk students, my day is all about interventions and finding what works to help my sweeties learn best.  Depending on the needs, some are very simple while some are more elaborate.  I can't live without my visual schedules!  It works wonders with my little learners who may be on the Autism spectrum, but everyone benefits from the classroom visual schedule. Since my littles can't tell time, it helps them know what their day looks like and what come next.

This is an example of an individual visual schedule.  The icons are attached with velcro. After the activity is completed, the student removes the picture, drops it into the container at the bottom, and sees what he/she is supposed to do next.  It's MAGIC!  You could just run a long strip of velcro vertically on any surface and have a container (such as an empty baby wipes box) sitting on the floor underneath to place the pictures once they are removed.  I also have another version of this schedule in a different place in my room that always stays up so everyone can see what we are doing and what comes next.  During circle time I also use a visual schedule so everyone can see what we are doing that day and what comes next.

{Sorry this is so blurry.  It is an old picture and I don't have my classroom ready yet to be able to snap a new one}

It basically works the same.  I remove the icon after we finish the activity OR if my class doesn't need it I simply point to what we are doing next.  Cracks me up because if I forget a picture my sweeties are quick to point it out!  That let's me know it is useful to them. 

Another intervention that another teacher in my building shared with me is an arrival schedule that I use with one particular student.  It works wonders. It allows him to be independent with his arrival routine while I am greeting others at the door. (It did take a little time to teach him, but once he understood what to do he is able to complete it by himself)

 

I used a cut down file folder and velcro to make it.  It is attached to the cubbie with velcro also so it can be removed when not needed.

Of course, I have lots of fidgets available, such as squeeze balls, cube chairs, wiggle seats, weighted blankets, etc.  

If a little one gets restless during learning times, I will try one of these to help with the wiggles.  I also make sure to use lots of music and movement to help everyone attend better.

One of my favorite books that I refer to all the time is this one.

There are SO many great ideas to use in your class (not just preschool either), but what I love most is just how this book helps me understand all the different sensory needs of little ones.  The authors do a great job of explaining sensory seekers and avoiders and different interventions to use with all.

On a different note, my 100 follower contest will wrap up soon.  Be sure to enter for a chance to win some fabulous prizes from many amazing teachers.  Click on the picture below to take you to the post.

I am also participating in another giveaway.  Be sure to check it out, as well!

Thanks for reading!  Have a great day.  :)