In this episode of Autism Academy 360, host Lisa Holladay delves into the importance and implementation of independent work systems (IWS) in special education classrooms. These structured systems, such as the three-drawer bin system and task boxes, are designed to help students with special needs become more self-reliant by providing visual cues and prompts.

Lisa shares practical steps for selecting appropriate tasks, utilizing visual supports, and collecting data to monitor progress. She emphasizes the transformative impact of these systems on classroom dynamics and offers free resources to help educators get started, including a one-hour training and a starter kit. Whether you are a brand new teacher or a seasoned veteran, IWS can be a huge game-changer in your classroom!

Resources Mentioned:

• A free one-hour training on how to start implementing independent work systems.
• A free Starter Kit for implementing task boxes in your classroom.

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Abby takes on the topic of token boards, an effective tool for motivating and managing behavior in autistic students but also a controversial one.

First, we define token boards and explain their basic concept. This is where confusion comes in, so we are going to talk about what they actually are.

Then we address common concerns and provide counterarguments. We first will cover the very valid concern that is the over-reliance on extrinsic rewards. Another common argument is the complexity and time-consuming setup and implementation. Lastly, the concern of inequity and fairness is addressed and talked about how to make them fair in your classroom.

Finally, Abby will discuss how to implement token boards effectively. The implementation sometimes causes these systems to completely break down which is why she is here to help prevent that.

Episode Highlights:

• What token boards are
• Arguments of why not to use them & counterpoints
• Implementation tips

Resources Mentioned:

• Free token boards
• Behavior Contracts & Charts editable

Connect with Us:

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• Lisa at @chalkboard_superhero
• Abby at @mrs_moes_modifications

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• Abby’s at Mrs. Moes Speducators
• Lisa’s at Special Education Superheroes

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In this episode of the Autism Academy 360 Podcast, host Lisa Hollady delves into strategies for landing a job in special education, particularly in autism settings. The episode covers essential tips for acing interviews, such as preparing answers to common questions, highlighting your experience, and effectively communicating with families.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive learning environments and being prepared for panel interviews. The episode also offers practical advice on behavior management, conflict resolution, and collaborating with support teams to ensure holistic support for students with autism. You won't want to miss this episode if you are a new educator, or you're a seasoned educator who needs some tips on landing a new job!

In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Abby discusses the essential topic of teaching self-regulation and coping skills to autistic students. We begin by defining self-regulation and discussing its significance in daily life. We delve into the common challenges autistic students face with self-regulation and examine how these difficulties can impact their learning and social interactions. Next, we address the importance of identifying triggers and stressors that can disrupt self-regulation.

Then we move on to practical strategies for teaching self-regulation techniques. Breathing exercises and mindfulness practices, sensory-based strategies, and discuss the concept of a calm-down corner or safe space, offering guidelines for setting up and utilizing these areas effectively in the classroom.

Collaboration with support networks is essential for success in teaching self-regulation. We discuss the importance of involving parents and caregivers, sharing techniques and tools used in the classroom that can be applied at home. Working with occupational therapists and other specialists to integrate professional advice and support into classroom strategies is also covered.

This episode offers a comprehensive guide for SPED teachers looking to enhance their approach to teaching self-regulation and coping skills, providing practical tips and real-life examples to support their efforts.

Episode Highlights:

• What is self regulation
• Self Regulation Techniques
• How to teach these techniques

Resources Mentioned:

• Self Management Task Boxes

Connect with Us:

Instagram

• Lisa at @chalkboard_superhero
• Abby at @mrs_moes_modifications

Join my our Facebook groups

• Abby’s at Mrs. Moes Speducators
• Lisa’s at Special Education Superheroes

Join our Email Lists

• Join Lisa’s here
• Join Abby’s here

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• Abby’s store
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In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa discusses how to prepare for the Extended School Year (ESY) services for students on the autism spectrum. This episode provides strategies for special education teachers to help their students maintain and progress their skills during the summer.

Lisa shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of communication with current teachers, organizing student data, and creating a structured yet engaging schedule. The episode underscores the significance of tailored instruction, consistency, and community-based activities in supporting students' development and preventing regression.

In this episode we are talking all about the concept of core vocabulary and its profound impact on communication in special education settings. This may be something new to you, or something you think is just for SLPs.

We will talk about why core vocabulary is important in the classroom, not just the speech room. We will talk about how you can teach students these skills, materials you can use to teach core vocabulary, and some must do’s if you have students who use AAC devices to communicate.

Episode Highlights:

• What is core vocabulary?
• Where to start with core vocabulary?
• Materials for Core Teaching Vocabulary

Resources Mentioned:

• Assistiveware Printable Boards
• Free Core Word Unit: Want
• Check out all the core word units here

Connect with Us:

Instagram

• Lisa at @chalkboard_superhero
• Abby at @mrs_moes_modifications

Join my our Facebook groups

• Abby’s at Mrs. Moes Speducators
• Lisa’s at Special Education Superheroes

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• Join Lisa’s here
• Join Abby’s here

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In this episode of Autism Academy 360, Lisa tackles the challenge of managing reinforcers for students with unique interests by introducing the concept of reinforcement bins. She explains how organizing preferred reinforcers in labeled bins can save time and improve classroom efficiency. By storing these bins in a central location, educators can easily access the items when needed.

Lisa also recommends a weekly routine where students select 5-10 preferred items to keep in their bins, ensuring the reinforcers remain relevant and motivating. This strategy enhances engagement and supports consistent reinforcement practices throughout the school day.

Resources Mentioned:

Preference assessment

In this podcast episode, we are talking about 4 things you can do this summer to change behaviors in the fall. First and foremost, establishing clear routines and expectations is essential. Abby will give you some exact steps to take other than just having clear rules so you can have a plan from day one. She’ll also talk about visuals and which ones you need ready for day one of school. By preparing these materials in advance, educators can save time and facilitate smoother transitions during the school year.

She also talks about how creating an environment can impact a student and gives suggests of what to look for. Lastly, reviewing and understanding individualized education plans (IEPs) is imperative for effectively implementing accommodations and ensuring student success. She will give some easy tips to easily facilitate this information to all staff working with a student.

Resources Mentioned:

• Token board freebie
• Real Life Visuals
• Visual Cue cards
• 
  
• Join the Behavior Support Hub Membership here!

Connect with Us:

Instagram

• Lisa at @chalkboard_superhero
• Abby at @mrs_moes_modifications

Join my our Facebook groups

• Abby’s at Mrs. Moes Speducators
• Lisa’s at Special Education Superheroes

Join our Email Lists

• Join Lisa’s here
• Join Abby’s here

Shop on TPT

• Abby’s store
• Lisa’s store