Blog
What to do when your student elopes and you’re the only adult in the room
The article discusses the challenges of managing elopement in classrooms with students who have extensive support needs. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the reasons behind elopement, prioritizing safety, implementing prevention strategies, and documenting incidents. The author encourages teachers to seek support and advocate for appropriate IEP interventions to assist students effectively.
How to Support Communication in Autism Classrooms
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is, “If a student isn’t talking, they’re not communicating.” But in my classroom, communication is happening all day
5 Visual Supports That Actually Work in Autism Classrooms
The article emphasizes the effectiveness of various visual supports for students with autism in classrooms. Key tools include visual schedules, communication boards, choice boards, calm down boards, and core communication boards. These resources foster communication, regulation, and independence while reducing anxiety and frustration, ultimately creating an accessible and supportive learning environment.
Why I Love Teaching in an Autism Focus Classroom
Autism acceptance isn’t about lowering expectations or feeling sorry for students.
It’s about recognizing competence, honoring differences, and creating environments where all students can succeed.
Making Math Visible: Why My High School Students Still Use Manipulatives
When people hear that my high school students use manipulatives and graphic organizers during math, they sometimes assume the work must be very basic. But in reality, these tools are what make academic learning accessible.
Seeing Students as Capable
Seeing students as capable is just one of the ideas shaping our classroom this year.
I Didn’t Disappear. I Was Paying Attention.
When I started Our Spectrum of Strengths, my plan was simple:write about my classroom, what we were learning, how I differentiate curriculum so every student
Preparing for the New School Year in a Neurodivergent-Affirming Classroom
Preparing for the New School Year in a Neurodivergent-Affirming Classroom.
Welcome to Our Spectrum of Strengths
Hi there, and welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Our Spectrum of Strengths is more than just a blog—it’s a space to share the heart,