Key Takeaways Problem-solving is a critical life skill that impacts students’ academic success, social interactions, and overall well-being. Evidence-based strategies, including explicit instruction, role-playing, and guided decision-making, can enhance...
Category: Blog
Creating a Common Language: Using Everyday Speech Concepts in Your Classroom
Special educators, general educators, and specialists know that clear, consistent language is key to helping students build communication, social, and behavioral skills. That’s where Everyday Speech comes in. Our curriculum includes a unique library of concepts...
Effective IEP Goals for Turn-Taking Skills in Kindergarten (with examples!)
Key Takeaways Turn-taking is a foundational social skill that helps children develop conversation, cooperation, and peer relationships. Evidence-based strategies, such as modeling, visual supports, and structured practice, can help kindergarteners strengthen their...
How to Write IEP Goals for Conversation Skills in Kindergarten (with examples!)
Key Takeaways Strong conversation skills are essential for academic and social success in kindergarten and beyond. Evidence-based strategies, such as role-playing, visual supports, and guided practice, help kindergarteners develop conversational skills. Example IEP...
50+ Examples of Strengths-Based IEP Goals for Students
Download 50+ Example IEP Goals Customizable library of strengths-based goalsIEP goals should empower students. Instead of focusing on eliminating challenges, strengths-based IEP goals emphasize autonomy, self-advocacy, and meaningful skill development. Below are real...
How to Set Neurodiversity-Affirming IEP Goals that Support Autonomy and Authenticity
Download 50+ Example IEP Goals Customizable library of strengths-based goalsToo often, Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals are written with the assumption that neurodivergent students must adapt to neurotypical behaviors. But what if we shifted the focus to...
The Double Empathy Problem: How to Improve Classroom Understanding
Communication is often seen as a skill that neurodivergent students must improve, but what if the challenge lies in mutual understanding? Enter the Double Empathy Problem. What is the Double Empathy Problem? For decades, social skills education for neurodivergent...
Understanding Masking and Supporting Neurodivergent Students
Masking is a common but often misunderstood behavior among neurodivergent students, impacting their well-being and social interactions. In schools, many students feel pressured to suppress their natural behaviors to fit in, but this can take a significant toll on...
A Guide to Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices in Schools
For years, social skills instruction in schools has been built around compliance—teaching neurodivergent students to conform to neurotypical expectations. While often well-intended, this approach can inadvertently encourage masking, increase anxiety, and erode...