The Power of Repetition in Special Education

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Using repetition is super important for students with special needs. It helps them understand new skills that are taught, practice skills, and remember things better. In this blog post, I want to chat about all the benefits that using repetition can have for us special education teachers. Hopefully, you will leave with some good tips.

What is the benefit of Using Repetition?

A big advantage of doing things repeatedly is that it helps students make connections in their brains. When they learn something new, their brains make pathways to remember it.

Doing stuff over and over makes these pathways stronger, so it's easier for students to remember the information later. This is helpful for special education students who might have a hard time learning and remembering things because of delays or other issues.

Besides making strong brain connections, repeating things also lets students practice and get better at their skills. Whether it's a tough math problem or exercises for physical therapy, doing it many times makes students feel more sure of themselves and increases their confidence. It also helps them find where they might need more help, so we can support them better.

Another good thing about using repetition is that it can make students less worried and more excited to learn. When students feel good about what they can do, they're more likely to enjoy learning and doing things. But if they're unsure or feel too much, they might get nervous and not want to join in. Teachers can help by giving students chances to repeat things, making them feel comfy and ready to learn.

Repetition in the Classroom:

Now, let's talk about how teachers can make use of repetition part of their classes for special education students.

Here are some good ideas:

Use pictures and interactive materials: Show students pictures or use things they can touch to help them understand new ideas.
Break tasks into smaller steps: Don't give students big or hard tasks all at once. Break them into smaller steps so students can do well and get better over time. Another great thing to introduce here are mini-schedules. You can read more about that.
Use the same language and routines: Say the same things and do the same stuff in class to make students feel like they know what's going on.
Tell parents to use repetition at home: Ask parents to help students practice what they learn at home, like having the same nighttime routine or morning schedule.
Try task boxes: Use Task boxes with activities for students to repeat over and over again. These can focus on certain skills, helping students learn in a structured and repeated way. The task boxes that I have always created have the same format so repetition is just part of what to expect.

As you embark on this journey of supporting special education students, I invite you to explore my brand new, Teach Task Box Inspire Membership. This membership allows special education teachers to save time by allowing me to do all the prep work for you. If you join, you will get access to 5 never-been seen before task boxes suited to teach your students in ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies or even Life Skills. Even better, you have the option to tailor your membership to fit your needs by selecting the appropriate grade band.

K-2
3-5
Life Skills/Vocational

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In conclusion, repetition emerges as a cornerstone in the education of special needs students. Its role in building neural connections, refining skills, alleviating anxiety, and enhancing motivation cannot be overstated. Special education teachers, by integrating repetition into their classrooms and fostering its continuation at home, play a crucial role in empowering their students to realize their full potential.

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I am a High School, self-contained Autism teacher from Central New York, who is passionate about individualizing student learning. I am a mommy of three, lover of all things Disney, married to my best friend and addicted to chocolate!! I hope that you find great ideas and inspiration here, so welcome!!