Supporting Special Education Students in Specials Classes

Specials classes—like art, PE, music, and technology—are a highlight of the school day. However, for students with special needs, they can sometimes feel overwhelming. Supporting special education students in these environments requires thoughtful strategies to ensure they can fully participate and enjoy these activities.

One effective approach is using visual supports to help students understand expectations and routines. Visual schedules, first-then charts, and step-by-step task guides can make transitions smoother and reduce anxiety. Supporting special education students also means modifying activities to match their abilities. Whether that’s providing adapted materials, offering alternative ways to engage, or breaking tasks into smaller steps, small adjustments can make a big difference.

Collaboration is key when supporting special education students in specials. Work closely with specials teachers to ensure they understand each student's needs and how to best accommodate them. When everyone is on the same page, students feel more confident and engaged.

By implementing these strategies, teachers can create an inclusive and supportive environment where all students thrive in specials classes!

Episode Highlights:

• Use Visual Supports – Visual schedules, step-by-step visuals, and social stories help students navigate specials with confidence.
• Simplify Activities & Directions – Breaking tasks into smaller steps and using clear instructions makes activities more accessible.
• Offer Choices & Modifications – Give students control over their learning by providing alternatives that meet their needs.
• Collaborate with Specials Teachers – Sharing strategies, accommodations, and reinforcement tools ensures students are supported across all settings.

Resources Mentioned:

• IEP-AT-A-GLANCE
• Data collection sheets
• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom
  

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• Instagram: @chalkboard_superhero
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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 to increase student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.