Mrs. D's Corner

teaching from the heart, not the books.

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Prompt Hierarchy + Using Prompting Effectively

As special education teachers, we often need to give directions and help our students learn how to respond appropriately to complete a task. For example, how to use glue sponges or how to button a sweater. We can start with the lowest level of prompting, or there are times when a behavior needs to be managed immediately, and we choose a higher level prompt. Essentially, we instruct students to work through tasks by adding supportive prompts and cue into the child’s instruction. With varying levels of student abilities, we need to be prepared as the teacher to not only provide the appropriate… Read More

How to Handle a Teacher Observation with Grace

Observations and informal walk-throughs are an unavoidable part of being a teacher. And the anticipation of these events can make even the best veteran teachers nervous. Sure, some teachers don’t mind being observed, while the rest of us are nervous because of the audience in the room. Regardless of how you feel, there are several things that you should consider so that you are prepared for your observation. First, have a pre-conference with your admin. A conversation with your administrator can help you know what they are looking for in the observation. This meeting doesn’t have to be formal, so… Read More

A Day in the Life of a Special Education Teacher

Being a special education teacher, our jobs are pretty special. No pun intended. We have a lot of fun teaching and learning from our friends. Our job is tough, though, and some days the word “tough” doesn’t even begin to describe it. I’ll be honest – some days we just survive. And that’s okay. But it’s those moments in time that happen each day… the little laughs, the things our kids say and do, the things we start saying and doing, and so much more that just make our job so much fun. Yes, even on the tough days. And… Read More

Indoor Recess Ideas for the Special Ed Classroom

As a Special Education Teacher, it can sometimes be a challenge to keep our students entertained when the weather doesn’t permit an outdoor recess. It’s a good idea to have a few backup ideas ready to save your sanity on a rainy or snowy day! We don’t want to resort to extra iPad time if we can help it, and we certainly want students to practice their communication skills and interact with one another. We, also, know we want the room to be orderly and at least semi-put back together at the end of recess. This post contains affiliate links… Read More

17 MORE Hacks That Actually Work in SPED

We have a lot to do as teachers and our time is limited. We scour Pinterest and Facebook Groups, searching for the right tips and tricks… only to *most of the time* come up with nada. Or some sub-par something or other that is a waste of time. #letsbehonest This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. View the full disclosure policy here. The first go ’round, I shared 17 hacks that actually work in SPED. And now I have more incredible hacks for you… that will actually work in your special needs classroom. Because we have little time as… Read More

Professional Development Books for Special Ed Teachers

As teachers, we are expected to always continue on with our education. And we would all agree that, as teachers, we are lifelong learners. This year, I made a promise to myself that I would read more staff development books and attend more conferences. I want to be a sponge and learn all that I can, so I can best serve the families that I work with. This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. View the full disclosure policy here. Yes, the families. Not just the students. I want to continue to be a source of knowledge for parents… Read More

Calendar Time in the Self-Contained Classroom

Calendar time in the classroom is my favorite time of day. It’s first thing in the morning, and sure, I’m a morning person, but that’s not why I love our morning routine so much. The Morning Calendar Routine (MCR) that I have set up is not only differentiated to meet the needs of all of my students, but it’s functional and it’s routine. Nothing about our morning routine ever changes. It’s how we start every single morning. #strugglenomore You will no longer struggle to meet the needs of all of your students during your calendar routine. The first hour of… Read More

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