Back to School

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New School Year Should Mean New IEP

New IEP for School Year Transition This summer prepare your child’s IEP. As grades and schools change, revisit goals based on teacher feedback. Monitor progress through regular reports—don’t wait until spring when it may be too late to adjust goals before the next year begins. Address regression quickly by updating present levels in new grade/setting.

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Learning Life Skills: Tech Can Play a Role

Tech Tools for Teaching Independence Navigating school, therapy, work, and home life with a child who learns differently feels like herding cats. The good news is that assistive technology designed for special education offers powerful tools that make planning, reminders, organization, time management, clear communication, and instruction easier to manage.

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Play I Notice Newness

Find something not noticed before on path to school, Discover hidden designs flowers or signs along the way

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10 Tips for the New School Year

Discover how simple shifts can transform this school year for parents of children with special needs. These tips offer practical support and emotional upliftment, reminding you of your vital role and the importance of self-care. Embrace gratitude, envision possibilities, and trust your unique insights to guide both yourself and your child towards success.

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Is Packing Your Child’s Lunch a Healthier Option?

Pack healthy lunches your child will love: Choose My Plate guides help ensure variety, but aim for at least three balanced food groups. Involve kids in meal planning; pick new fruits/veggies or recipes to try together. Limit sugary drinks and high-calorie snacks while focusing on fruits, veggies, whole grains, and protein-rich options.

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School Tools for Success

Boost Your Child’s Back-to-School Success with Our Top Picks Starting a new school year is exciting, yet challenging for many students. This guide shares must-have tools designed to streamline homework management and educational support tailored specifically for special needs learners. 1. myHomework Student Planner: Great for kids who struggle with organization or ADHD/Dyslexia.

Want your child to learn how to get to school on time? Think backwards! 0

Want Your Child to Learn How to Get to School on Time? Think Backwards!

Discover how to teach your child valuable time management skills with the playful “reverse-time chart” method. This engaging activity lets kids visualize their day in a fun way! Start with a poster board and pen, or elevate it using photos of breakfast, brushing teeth, or drawing sleepy faces beside each scheduled event.

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2014 Cover Winner: Mariana Pacheco

Meet Mariana, a sparkling 4-year-old whose smile lights up our hearts. Despite being mostly nonverbal due to severe autism, sensory disorder anxiety, and seizures, she’s now joyfully singing beloved songs and expressing essential words like “thank-you” and “welcome.” Her grandparents beam with pride at her progress—and we’re delighted by her sunny return to school!

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