Communication Boards
Working in Special Ed, you will work with verbal and non-verbal students. I have students who can speak; however, they may need prompting or vocabulary to communicate and express themselves. The pictures are of Core communication boards and an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) device. They are designed to assist individuals with difficulty speaking or limited verbal communication skills. The term "Core" in Core communication boards refers to the use of a set of essential or core words that are versatile and can be combined to create a wide range of messages. These words help in constructing sentences and expressing various thoughts and needs. These communication boards come in different formats, from physical tangible boards to digital applications on tablets or other electronic devices.
Student Work Board
Our student work board is a way to celebrate, share, and showcase our students' efforts, achievements, talents, and interests in the classroom. The content on a student workboard is often rotated to show a variety of our work over time by allowing diverse subjects and formats, including their achievements in science, art, ELA, mathematics, and related service groups.
Sensory/Break Room
Sensory rooms, also known as sensory environments or calming rooms, are designed to provide individuals with various sensory experiences to promote self-regulation and relaxation. Spaces like this are used in multiple settings, including schools, therapy centers, and even homes with Special Needs students. Elements of a sensory room can contribute to a calming but controlling atmosphere, helping individuals reduce stress and anxiety with various sensory stimuli, such as tactile materials, visual displays, and auditory elements. Sensory rooms provide a space for individuals to reset and refocus and serve as a proactive and positive tool for managing challenging behavior.
Visual Supports
Visual supports play a crucial role in special education and therapeutic and everyday settings. These tools provide visual information to enhance communication, understanding, and learning for individuals of different ages and abilities. They offer a non-verbal means of communication, and visual supports make information more accessible to individuals with communication challenges or language difficulties. They can include pictures, symbols, charts, or written words to convey messages and empower individuals to navigate their environment independently.