Embedded Files
Transitions, Behaviors &
Developing the tools for life
Developing the tools for life
There are many skills and behaviors that children need to learn during their early years in order to develop life skills, grow and gain independence. Early educators and parents can utilize many different types of assistive support tools to aid all children in their care, including children with developmental delays or disabilities.
Defining the skills for independence
Defining the skills for independence
- Activities for Daily Living (ADLs)
Essential tasks done in everyday life
Essential tasks done in everyday life
Such as personal hygiene, brushing teeth, getting dressed, etc.
2. Instrumental Activities for Daily Living (iADLs)
2. Instrumental Activities for Daily Living (iADLs)
Activities that are done in daily life which involve interacting with the environment
Activities that are done in daily life which involve interacting with the environment
Such as preparing meals and cleaning up, shopping, transportation, basic communication, etc.
Adaptive Spoons (LOW TECH)
Adaptive Spoons (LOW TECH)
LIFE SKILLS
LIFE SKILLS
Adaptive utensils are available which can help with children's fine motor development, and support independence when eating for children who have physical struggles with tremors or grasping and controlling objects.
RESOURCE: Steady spoon with pediatric handle
Pictorial Schedules (LOW TECH)
Pictorial Schedules (LOW TECH)
TRANSITIONS
TRANSITIONS
Create a large picture schedule with each of the day’s activities and post it on the wall at children’s eye level. For children who have difficulty transitioning, you can help them by showing the schedule so they can visually see what activity is coming up. This helps young children learn the daily schedule so they can become comfortable and sense what is coming next.
Widgit Online (MID TECH)
Widgit Online (MID TECH)
TRANSITIONS
TRANSITIONS
Website where you can create an account (offers a free trial) to create all types of printed and interactive materials using symbols. You can create a visual transition chart (like the image on the left) to help young children learn structure and routines, as well as provide support for students who are anxious and struggle through transitions.
RESOURCE: Widgit Online
Visual Timers (MID TECH)
Visual Timers (MID TECH)
TRANSITIONS
TRANSITIONS
Visual timers are great for helping children begin to get a sense of the “passing of time”. They can SEE how much time is left to play/snack/rest or whatever activity they are engaged in. This can be a useful tool for teachers, especially when children need to “wait” for something to happen, and provide support for children who have trouble transitioning.
RESOURCE: Time Timer
Behavior Tracker Pro (HIGH TECH)
Behavior Tracker Pro (HIGH TECH)
BEHAVIOR
BEHAVIOR
Behavior Tracker Pro is an app that can be used by teachers and parents to track behaviors, which can help streamline and support treatment plans for children with challenging behaviors. It includes a video capture component (to be able to record a behavior or strategy), and the ability to graph and analyze data.
RESOURCE: Behavior Tracker Pro
REFERENCES
REFERENCES
Dell, A. (2017). Assistive Technology in the Classroom (What's New in Special Education), Pearson Education. Kindle Edition.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse