Everyday Speech Blog
Social Skill Lesson Plans and Articles
Teaching Calm: Self-Regulation Strategies for Elementary Classrooms
How to Teach Executive Functioning in Elementary (Free Lesson & Worksheet)
Download Free Executive Functioning Resources Teach skills like organization, planning, and task initiation with resources for interventions and whole-class lessons.Developing executive functioning skills is essential for elementary students to manage emotions, stay...
Middle School Organizational Skills: Free Video Lesson & Lesson Plan
Download Free Executive Functioning Resources Teach skills like organization, planning, and task initiation with resources for interventions and whole-class lessons.Executive functioning skills are essential for success in school and beyond, and organizational skills...
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...
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...
No-Prep Activities
PreK Educators: Enhancing Social-Emotional Skills with ‘Guess What Happens Next’
Introduction Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) plays a crucial role in early childhood education, helping young students build essential life skills. In this blog post, we will explore a fun and engaging activity called 'Guess What Happens Next,' designed to help PreK...
Understanding Bullying: A Guide for Educators of Elementary Students
Introduction Bullying is a pervasive issue that affects children of all ages. As educators, it is crucial to address this topic and help students understand the different forms of bullying, the difference between bullying and teasing, and the impact bullying has on...
Helping Students Stay Calm and Solve Problems: A No-Prep Activity for Special Education
When faced with problems, it's common for students to become upset and frustrated. This can lead to further complications and strained relationships with peers. In this blog post, we will explore a no-prep activity designed for educators working with students in...
Adapting to the New Normal: Back to School with Social-Emotional Learning
Introduction As we go back to school, it will look and feel different, but there are lots of ways we can stay safe and healthy. Everyone will have slightly different rules to follow now. Some people will have school online, some will go in person, and some will do a...
Teaching PreK Students the Right Way to Join a Group
As educators, we strive to help our students develop essential social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. One important skill is understanding the appropriate way to join a group without interrupting or being rude. In this blog post, we will explore...
Teaching PreK Students Conversation Skills: Activities and Tips for Educators
Introduction Effective communication is a crucial life skill that lays the foundation for meaningful relationships and success in various aspects of life. For PreK students, learning how to start and maintain a conversation can be both exciting and challenging. As...
Social-Emotional Learning Skills for Kindergarten Students at Parties
Introduction When attending parties with family or friends, kindergarten students can develop essential social-emotional learning skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. In this blog post, we will explore three key skills for young children at social...
Understanding Bullying: A Guide for Educators on Types and Prevention
Introduction Bullying is a harmful behavior that not only affects the emotional well-being of students but also hinders a healthy learning environment. To foster positive social-emotional development, it's crucial for educators to understand the different types of...
Teaching PreK Students the Art of Conversation: Activities and Tips
Introduction As educators, we know that helping young learners develop strong conversation skills is essential for their social-emotional growth. In this blog post, we will discuss an engaging no-prep activity that encourages PreK students to practice taking turns in...
Two Sides: A Game to Teach PreK Students Flexibility and Adaptability
Introduction In this blog post, we will explore the skills of being flexible and adaptable, which are essential components of Social-Emotional Learning. Being flexible means that we can adapt to changes and not get upset, while being rigid means that we get frustrated...
Using the Self-Controller Scanner to Regain Control of Thoughts and Feelings
Introduction Teaching students how to manage their thoughts and feelings is crucial for their social-emotional growth. One effective tool is the Self-Controller Scanner, which helps students identify when they are losing control and choose the best strategy to regain...
Cultivating Gratitude: A Key to Happiness and Success for Special Education Students
Introduction Gratitude is a powerful habit that can lead to increased happiness and success in life. It encourages healthier and happier activities while strengthening social connections. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of gratitude in the context of...
Teaching Problem-Solving Skills: A No-Prep Activity for Educators
Introduction Problem-solving skills are essential for students to navigate through various challenges they may face in their daily lives. By fostering these skills, educators can help students become more resilient and adaptable individuals. In this blog post, we will...
Teaching Students to Follow People’s Eyes for Better Communication
Introduction One of the key aspects of social-emotional learning is understanding the thoughts and feelings of others. By observing people's eyes and following where they are looking, it is possible to gain insights into what they might be thinking about. This skill...
Teaching the Conversation Stoplight: A Guide for Special Education Educators
Introduction The Conversation Stoplight is an essential tool for teaching students effective communication skills, especially in group settings. By understanding when to talk and when to listen, students can develop their social-emotional learning and improve their...
