Ask Dr. BKW: Effective communication-collaboration strategies with therapists

Question:  As a pre-k classroom teacher with a diagnosed student with disability, what are effective means of communication and/or collaboration strategies with therapist for high-quality learning environment?  Thanks.

Answer:  A higher number of students at younger ages are entering classroom settings with diagnosed disabilities that teachers need to provide an inclusive learning environment for their success.  Here are strategies to build positive communicative relationships between teacher and therapist(s).

1.      During the initial individual education program (IEP) or individual family service program (IFSP) meetings, discuss in detail the communicative methods that will be used between teacher and therapist (e.g., face-to-face conversation, email, text, telephone) to stay on target of the student’s goals outlined,

2.      Encourage the therapist(s) to observe the student in the classroom setting prior to first one-on-on session that will assist in seeing student’s interactions with peers and/or individually in different areas.  After observation, discuss what student as doing and retrieve teacher’s observational notes (e.g., anecdotal, time sampling) to have more in-depth conversation,

3.      Once on-site days and timeframes have been set, encourage the therapist(s) to conduct planned activities in classroom.  If not, secure space where s/he can go to conduct skill activities,

4.      At end of therapist(s) session, have him/her discuss face-to-face or summarized notes (e.g., handwritten, electronically) of what was worked on, follow-up for classroom and an extension of activities for home, and

5.      The teacher will need to collect work samples with observational notes that will be shared with therapist(s) at next scheduled student session or prior to send electronically so all are staying updated on skill accomplishments and/or modifications as needed.

The IEP/IFSP outlined goals set for student takes all stakeholders (e.g., parents, teachers, therapists) for him/her to achieve skills through communicating strategies to meet the outcomes.  Remember it takes a village to raise – educate a child; therefore, theses communicative suggestions are a start ensuring high-quality education is present for the student.

 

It's the beginning of a new school year

The first school day is circled on your calendar and it’s time to finalize plans.  From the excitement that is anticipated first year teacher to the veteran ones, who has been looking for school supply bargains at dollar stores, online stores, and other places to ensure students are well educated and prepared for the next age and/or grade level.

Basically, every setting whether in public schools, private schools or child care centers funds has been cut or reallocation of funds are difficult to meet all needs.  Here are some suggestions to keep basic school supplies to stock all school year.

1.      Compile school supplies for the whole school year that must be provide to instruct lessons and/or special projects,

2.      During open house share the list with parents that these are supplies need all year.  Create an inventory list so grade parent and/or classroom designee can check and let parents know which items need to be replenished,

3.      Use social media outlets to post supplies needed and various ways to donate items and/or money.  Remember, get clearance with administration before setting up account,

4.      Seek out community organizations, social groups and stores that can support and/or sponsor classroom or school at-large.  Talk with administration to get clearance, write letter on school’s letterhead with supplies needed, and so forth.  After donations are received have student create “thank you” card(s) that can be sent or hand delivered for generosity in giving,

5.      Reach out into the community for organizations who would like to adopt your class where they can assist with other events throughout the school year, and

6.      Post the supply list in the classroom so parents and visitors see the needs to support,

7.      Ask your parents if they have ideas of ways to maintain a full supply closet in aiding students education.

Teachers, you all do a phenomenal job with the limited supplies/materials to instill knowledge keeping curiosity alive to investigate, explore and apply skills.  As the students enter your classroom door greet them with a smile letting them know you are glad they have been assigned to your class and look forward to an exciting school year.  It is all our responsibility to keep the student’s dreams alive to enter passionate fields toward being productive citizens.  Have an awesome school year.

 

 

J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 Celebration

Now, the countdown time has started for planning J-A-M (Jesus and Me) back-to-school Christian based activities that will be spearheaded by the church Christian Education and Youth Ministries; in conjunction with opening the doors to the community at-large.  Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) tells us to “train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it”.   Education is a key component for the youth to know that church members are supporting them toward being productive Christian citizens in our society.  And there is no better way than to have “J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 Celebration”. 

Here are some activities that your ministries may like to plan, implement and evaluation for the J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 celebration. 

1.      Set date/timeframe for the event whether it will daily, weekend or once for the celebration,

2.      Outline program specifics and person’s in-charge of various activities to ensure all aspects are covered.  Some activities after opening devotion are youth create video or commercial skit referencing J-A-M, youth dancers choreograph a dance and/or mime of J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 celebration, biblical scavenger hunt related to things found in the church, Bible jeopardy/Bible Who Wants to be a Millionaire (free templates can be located online), Biblical spelling bee, create Biblical obstacle course, overnight lock-in, and Christian movie night.  When you gather the youth remember to have a Christian icebreaker for new and old acquaintances such as icebreaker Bingo, Ten Commandment icebreaker or I am blessed icebreaker game just to name a few,

3.      Have ice cream social and/or light snacks to conclude J-A-M,

4.      Purchase back-to-school items (e.g., pencils, notebooks) that will be used as prizes and/or prepare back-to-school backpacks for children will need supplies to start the school year off ready to learn, and

5.      Invite a youth minister to conclude the J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 celebration sharing we as followers of Jesus must be disciplined to work hard to represent God every day in and out of school thinking “What would God do in this situation?” Remember all planned activities should be developmentally age appropriate for all to have a Godly time serving Him.  

The purpose is for the youth to walk away from J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 celebration having had a good time but growing in their relationship with God knowing “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13 KJV) for situations like, if being bullied - God is with you, struggling with personal or academic issues – God is with you no matter the situation look to Him for guidance.  J-A-M Back-to-School 2014 celebration is the kickoff but it is all our responsibilities to support the youth all school year to do and be the BEST God has created them for in using their skills and talents.