What is autism? Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the early brain development of 1 out of 36 children. The primary characteristics of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are: Impaired social relating and reciprocity. Impaired use of multiple nonverbal behaviors such as eye contact, facial expression, and gestures. Failure to develop peer relationships or… Read more Autism Tip Sheet (for Librarians)
Category: Educators
Including Students with Multiple/Severe Disabilities in the General Education Classroom
Meaningful Participation Every student has the right to actively participate in natural settings within their school and community. In education, inclusion means educating students with disabilities among their peers without disabilities to the greatest extent possible. Inclusion in the general education classroom provides all students the opportunity to participate, learn, and feel a sense of… Read more Including Students with Multiple/Severe Disabilities in the General Education Classroom
Intellectual Disabilities
What is an intellectual disability? An intellectual disability is a condition that begins before age 18 and significantly limits intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. Individuals with intellectual disabilities may have challenges with learning, reasoning, problem solving, and/or thinking abstractly and quickly, and may also have additional challenges with everyday social and practical skills. Those born… Read more Intellectual Disabilities
Fragile X Syndrome
What is Fragile X syndrome? Fragile X syndrome is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability. It is caused by a mutation of a gene (FMR1) on the X chromosome responsible for making a protein that plays a role in brain development. When the gene is fully mutated, it becomes inactive and does not… Read more Fragile X Syndrome
Fitness and Children With Disabilities
Why Should Your Child Be Active? The obesity rate for children with disabilities in the United States is 38 percent higher than for children without disabilities. Nutrition is one component to a healthy lifestyle, but exercise also plays a key role. Engaging your child in an active lifestyle will: Burn calories to promote a healthy… Read more Fitness and Children With Disabilities
Enhancing Literacy Instruction for Students With Intellectual Disabilities
Current research in reading instruction indicates that children with intellectual disabilities (ID) can obtain higher reading levels than previously believed. Improved reading abilities can lead to independence, employment, and an improved sense of well-being in adults. The following 10 research-based tips are ideas educators and IEP teams should consider as they are planning literacy instruction… Read more Enhancing Literacy Instruction for Students With Intellectual Disabilities
Employment and Individuals With Disabilities
Why Employment Matters Having a job can provide a person with a path toward independence and financial self-sufficiency. It can create a sense of purpose and be a means by which to connect with the community. Employment is associated with fewer behavior problems and better mental health outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities… Read more Employment and Individuals With Disabilities
Using a Schedule Effectively for Distance Learning [Educators]
Schedules are an Evidence Based Practice that can help students be more available for learning. They are helpful to all students by clarifying what is going to happen, increasing predictability and making abstract concepts such as time concrete, and they help students to be more independent. Here are a few ideas on how you can… Read more Using a Schedule Effectively for Distance Learning [Educators]
Principles of Explicit Instruction for Distance Learning [Educators]
The text Explicit Instruction by Anita L. Archer and Charles A. Hughes outlines a systematic and engaging instructional delivery method called explicit instruction which is appropriate for all students, including those at risk and with disabilities. Explicit instruction is useful across a variety of subjects and any grade level. While the text was not written… Read more Principles of Explicit Instruction for Distance Learning [Educators]
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
What is Applied Behavior Analysis? ABA is a science that studies the way people interact with their environments, including observable events, sensory experiences, and internal states, and how those interactions impact individuals and their future interactions. It is not a single intervention or approach. ABA has many applications and usages, including teaching new skills. A… Read more Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)