A number of students I support have Global Developmental Delays, ADHD and are on the spectrum. They present profound challenges not only in accessing the curriculum but also with basic communication regarding their needs as well as understanding instructions and expected classroom behaviour. One goal I set was to learn how to support students with behaviour dysregulation and facilitate communication they can initiate. For this, I helped make a PEC file with different sections for daily activities, sensory breaks and toilet needs which the student could be taught to use. I learnt to implement many proactive strategies like visual schedules and timers for clear expectations , positive reinforcements for use of desired behaviour, teaching self regulation through sensory tools and calming exercises and short structured breaks to help refocus.
Over time, I observed that these strategies helped smooth transitions between tasks for students . This accomplishment helped me feel more prepared to manage challenging behaviours while maintaining a positive, supportive learning environment.