Essential Tools for an Effective Autism Classroom

In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa shares the top five essential items she never goes without self-contained classroom. These tools help maintain a safe, functional, and happy learning environment, ensuring smooth and productive days for both staff and students.

Lisa delves into the importance of visual supports, timers, communication aids, sensory tools, and flexible seating options, providing practical tips on how to incorporate these items effectively to enhance structure, communication, and time management for students with autism.

Episode 40 is the perfect episode to get some ideas for the upcoming school year, whether you are a brand-new teacher or a ten-year veteran, everyone can take something away from this one!

Episode Highlights:

Personal Transition: Lisa shares her experience moving from a self-contained setting to a 5th-grade consultant teacher role, highlighting the new challenges and opportunities.

Importance of IWS: Emphasizing the need for independence, Lisa explains how independent work systems can transform special education classrooms and help students become more self-reliant.

Types of IWS: Lisa discusses six types of independent work systems—tiered shelf, 3-drawer bin, tabletop bin, folder, binder, and hybrid systems—detailing their setup, benefits, and tips for implementation.

Free Training Session: Lisa announces a free one-hour training session on IWS and provides a link in the show notes for registration, along with a visual guide to assist educators.

Resources Mentioned:

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More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support with increasing student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.