Episodes
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Are you starting off the school year with behaviors you are unsure how to deal with? You won't want to miss episode 47! In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa discusses effective strategies for managing classroom transitions for students with special needs. Transitions can be challenging for students, often leading to anxiety and disruptive behaviors. Lisa explores how preparation, reducing anxiety, and streamlining transition processes can make these moments smoother and less stressful. She also shares practical tips such as using visual schedules, countdown timers, First-Then strategies, and creating calm corners to help students feel more secure and confident during transitions.
Episode Highlights:
Visual Schedules:Utilize visual schedules to provide students with a clear and predictable sequence of events, helping them understand what’s coming next and reducing anxiety.Countdown Timers and Transition Cues:Use countdown timers and consistent transition cues to mentally prepare students for upcoming changes and make transitions smoother.First-Then Strategies:Implement First-Then strategies to help students manage anxiety by clearly outlining what needs to be done now and what they can look forward to afterward.Calm Corners and Positive Reinforcement:Offer access to calm corners for students who need to decompress during transitions and use positive reinforcement to motivate successful transitions.Resources Mentioned:
Token BoardsPreference AssessmentsColor Coded Visual SchedulesVisual AidsFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode47
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Family involvement in your classroom is essential! In this Teach Task Box Inspire episode, Lisa explores the importance of building strong relationships with families in special education. She emphasizes that effective communication, involving parents in the IEP process, and providing consistent updates on student progress are key strategies for creating a collaborative and supportive environment. By fostering these connections, teachers can work with families to ensure the best outcomes for their students, making them feel valued and empowered in their child's education journey.
Episode Highlights:
Effective Communication: Regular updates and two-way communication build trust and keep parents informed and engaged.Involving Families in the IEP Process: Preparing parents and collaboratively setting goals make them active participants in their child’s education.Providing Consistent Support: Frequent progress reports and celebrating student successes help maintain strong parent-teacher connections.Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and adapting to cultural differences in communication ensures that all families feel respected and included.Resources Mentioned:
FREE communication sheetFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode46
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Missing episodes?
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In this Teach Task Box Inspire episode, Lisa delves into five effective strategies to help students manage big emotions. From active listening and co-regulation to providing space, using distractions, and encouraging creative expression, Lisa offers practical tips and insights for educators looking to support their students' emotional well-being. These strategies are essential tools that can be used in various situations to help students navigate their emotions and reduce challenging behaviors, ultimately fostering a more supportive and understanding classroom environment.
Episode Highlights:
The Power of Active Listening: Discover how truly listening to students can reveal the root of their emotional struggles and provide a foundation for support.Co-Regulation in Action: Learn how modeling calming strategies alongside your students can help them manage their emotions more effectively.Giving Space When Needed: Understand the importance of allowing students the time and space to process their emotions independently.Creative Expression as an Outlet: Explore how drawing, writing, and other creative activities can offer students a non-verbal way to express their emotions.Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomConnect with Me:
Instagram: @chalkboard_superheroJoin my Facebook group, Special Education SuperheroesJoin my email listShop my TPT storeShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode45
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In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, host Lisa Hollady shares 8 simple yet impactful Social Emotional Learning (SEL) practices to start the day, designed to set a positive tone for the entire classroom. These strategies are easy to implement and perfect for busy educators looking to enhance their morning routines. Lisa also highlights how her task boxes can be seamlessly integrated into these SEL practices, making them even more engaging and effective for students.
Episode Highlights:
Daily Greetings - Build rapport and reduce challenging behaviors with personalized morning greetings.Emotions Check-In - Help students identify and regulate their emotions with a quick morning check-in.Positive Affirmations - Boost confidence and set a positive tone with daily affirmations, supported by affirmation cards in task boxes.SEL Journaling - Encourage reflection with morning journaling prompts, easily integrated into task boxes.Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomConnect with Me:
Instagram: @chalkboard_superheroJoin my Facebook group, Special Education SuperheroesJoin my email listShop my TPT storeShow notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode44
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In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, host Lisa Hollady dives into the power of behavior-specific praise. Discover how this targeted form of positive reinforcement can transform your classroom dynamics by providing clear, meaningful feedback to students. Lisa explains the simple yet effective formula for delivering behavior-specific praise and shares real-life examples to illustrate its impact. Whether you're looking to boost student motivation or improve classroom behavior, this episode will give you practical strategies to enhance your praise game and create a more positive learning environment.
Episode Highlights:
Understanding Behavior-Specific Praise: Learn what behavior-specific praise is and why it’s a powerful tool for reinforcing positive behavior.The Magic Formula: Discover the three key components of effective behavior-specific praise and how to apply them in your classroom.Real-Life Examples: Hear practical examples of behavior-specific praise in action, including how it can help manage transitions, encourage teamwork, and more.Implementing Praise Effectively: Find out why using a 4:1 ratio of positive praise to corrections can improve classroom behavior and student engagement.Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomConnect with Me:
Instagram: @chalkboard_superheroJoin my Facebook group, Special Education SuperheroesJoin my email listShop my TPT storeShow notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode43
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In today’s episode, Lisa Hollady, the host of Teach Task Box Inspire, shares all about implementing an effective token economy in your special education classroom. A token economy is a powerful system for delivering positive reinforcement, encouraging desired behaviors, and reducing unwanted ones. Lisa will explain the basics of a token economy, practical examples of how it can be used, and essential dos and don’ts to ensure your token economy is successful. By the end of this episode, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to create a motivating and effective reinforcement system that promotes positive outcomes in your classroom.
Episode Highlights:
What is a Token Economy? - Learn the basics of a token economy and how it can reinforce positive behaviors by allowing students to earn tokens for desired actions, which can be exchanged for rewards.Practical Examples - Discover how to use token economies for various behaviors, such as completing assignments, following classroom rules, and encouraging positive social interactions.Dos and Don’ts - Essential tips for setting up a successful token economy, including picking the right target behaviors, using a variety of reinforcers, and being consistent in implementation.Implementation and Fading - Understand the importance of setting achievable goals, taking data, and having a plan for fading the token economy to naturally occurring reinforcement systems.Resources Mentioned:
Token BoardsPreference AssessmentsVisual SchedulesVisual AidsFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomConnect with Me:
Instagram: @chalkboard_superheroJoin my Facebook group, Special Education SuperheroesJoin my email listShop my TPT storeShow notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode42
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Implementing visual boundaries in the special education classroom can significantly improve students' understanding of where they are expected to be, reducing wandering and invasions of personal space. Using tools like painter’s tape, vinyl spots, and clear labels can effectively define these boundaries. Consistent teaching, reinforcement, and data tracking are essential to ensure students adhere to the boundaries and understand the expectations. This approach not only helps maintain order but also supports students in developing spatial awareness and independence.
Episode Highlights:
Effective Tools: Painter’s tape and vinyl spots are practical tools for creating visual boundaries in the classroom.Clear Expectations: Labeling student and teacher spaces helps clarify boundaries and reduce confusion.Consistent Reinforcement: Regularly reinforcing and redirecting students helps them learn and adhere to boundaries.Data Tracking: Collecting frequency data on boundary adherence helps track progress and celebrate successes.Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomConnect with Me:
Instagram: @chalkboard_superheroJoin my Facebook group, Special Education SuperheroesJoin my email listShop my TPT storeShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode41
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In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa shares the top five essential items she never goes without self-contained classroom. These tools help maintain a safe, functional, and happy learning environment, ensuring smooth and productive days for both staff and students.
Lisa delves into the importance of visual supports, timers, communication aids, sensory tools, and flexible seating options, providing practical tips on how to incorporate these items effectively to enhance structure, communication, and time management for students with autism.
Resources Mentioned:
Visual AidsFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode40
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In the latest episode of Teach, Task Box, Inspire, Lisa chats about the new Teach, Task Box, Inspire Membership, designed to support students' social and emotional development through task boxes.
Lisa shares her personal transition to a 5th-grade consultant teacher role and highlights how task boxes can foster independence and confidence in students. She provides details about the membership’s exclusive content, diverse curriculum, grade-band options, and the inclusion of monthly themes. Lisa also introduces the physical subscription box option, emphasizing the ease and joy of receiving ready-to-use resources.
Whether you are a ten-year veteran or a brand new teacher, having task boxes delivered to your doorstep is sure to be a game-changer for your prep time, well-being, and planning as a teacher.
Resources Mentioned:
Teach Task Box Inspire - The MembershipTeach Task Box Inspire- PDF download to give to your administrator Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode39
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In Episode 38 of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa discusses the importance of independent work systems (IWS) in special education classrooms. Sharing her journey transitioning from a self-contained classroom to a 5th-grade consultant teacher role, Lisa emphasizes the necessity of fostering independence in students with special needs.
This episode explores six types of Independent Work Systems: tiered shelf, 3-drawer bin, tabletop bin, folder, binder, and hybrid systems, providing detailed descriptions, benefits, and implementation tips for each. Lisa also announces a free one-hour training session and visual guide to help educators choose the best IWS for their classrooms.
Episode 38 is the perfect episode to get some ideas for the upcoming school year, whether you are a brand-new teacher or a ten-year veteran, everyone can take something away from this one!
Resources Mentioned:
Free One-Hour Training Session RegistrationIndependent Work Systems Starter PackBlog Post: How to Set Up Independent Work SystemsShop task boxes on my TPT storeShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode38
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In Part 8 of the Teach Task Box Inspire mini-series, Lisa guides special educators through essential elements often overlooked but crucial for an effective autism classroom setup.
Lisa discusses sensory tools, parent communication strategies, technology integration, classroom atmosphere, and educator self-care. Lisa emphasizes their collective impact on student success and classroom harmony.
Practical tips given throughout the episode include creating sensory-friendly environments, fostering strong home-school partnerships, leveraging technology for personalized learning, cultivating a positive classroom atmosphere, and prioritizing self-care to sustain educator well-being amidst the challenges of special education.
Take a listen to the final part of this Teach, Task Box, Inspire mini-series!
Resources Mentioned:
Parent communication resourcesFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode37
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In the latest episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa focuses on the topic of training paraprofessionals in autism classrooms. Paraprofessionals play a pivotal role in student support, and Lisa discusses the importance of comprehensive training in understanding autism, implementing IEPS, managing behaviors, and using communication devices effectively. Paraprofessionals are in our classrooms day in and day out, it is vital that they are trained properly and provide exactly what your autism class needs in a teaching assistant.
Lisa provides practical strategies like pre-school year training, ongoing professional development, resource provision, and mentorship programs to foster a cohesive team environment. Lisa also acknowledges the challenges of managing diverse personalities among paraprofessionals but stresses the importance of clarity in expectations to create a supportive learning environment.
Part 7 of the mini-series is one that you do not want to miss. Take a listen and train your classroom staff properly and effectively!
Resources Mentioned:
IEP at a glance document (FREE)Teacher BinderData Collection SheetsStudent Accommodations Sheet (FREE)Para-brochure or paraprofessional manualFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode36
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In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa continues her mini-series on setting up an effective Autism classroom, focusing on the critical importance of communication for students with Autism. She emphasizes the necessity of providing constant access to communication tools like PECS books, iPads, core boards, and AAC devices to help students express their needs and reduce frustration and behaviors.
Lisa shares her experiences and strategies for embedding communication opportunities throughout the classroom, highlighting the importance of modeling device use and training staff to ensure consistent support. Part 6 of the mini-series is for everyone, communication will always be an essential part of any classroom.
Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom
Show Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode35
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In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa continues her mini-series on setting up an effective Autism Classroom. She discusses the importance of preparing instructional materials and resources for students with diverse needs.
Lisa emphasizes the ongoing process of resource development and adaptation, especially for educators new to Autism classrooms. She shares strategies for organizing and selecting materials tailored to individual students' IEP goals and learning styles. Take a listen while Lisa the endless materials she offers to make your autism classroom thrive such as task boxes, adapted books, life skills curriculum, and more.
Resources Mentioned:
Adapted MaterialsAdapted Books BundleFunctional Life Skills CurriculumTask boxesReading ComprehensionLife Skills Task BoxesSensory ToolsFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode34
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Students on the autism spectrum benefit greatly from visuals. Visual supports assist our autistic students with language comprehension and expression. Have you ever struggled with getting your students to be more independent? Visual supports are key!
In this episode of the mini-series for setting up an effective autism classroom, I tell you all about how visual supports have been an absolute game-changer in my autism classroom. I have been around the autism classroom to provide you all of the practical tips on how to use and implement various visual supports effectively in your own classroom environment.
You won't want to miss part 4 of the mini-series, I am here to provide you all of the tools you could possibly need!
Resources Mentioned:
Visual AidsToken BoardsFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom to learn more about IWS centersShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode33
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We are talking about schedules in part 3 of the Teach Task Box Inspire mini-series. Schedules play a crucial role in setting up an effective autism classroom. In this episode, we focus on comprehensive schedules for students and classroom staff. Carefully creating those schedules ensures a smooth functioning classroom setting.
Not only do schedules benefit the students, but the staff as well. You won't want to miss this episode of the mini-series.
Resources Mentioned:
Color Coded Visual SchedulesFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode32
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The mini-series continues in this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire. We are talking all about setting up an effective autism classroom. I share all of my practical tips and considerations for arranging your classroom space to meet the diverse needs of students with ASD.
Carefully planning a classroom environment with the right visual structure is key to creating an environment that promotes predictability and supports independent learning.
You won't want to miss this episode of the mini-series! Whether you have been teaching for years or you are just getting started, there is something for everyone. Let's make sure our autism classrooms are set up for student success!
Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode31
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In this episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, a mini-series on setting up an effective Autism Classroom is introduced! This is the very first episode out of 8, that will go over all the tips and tricks for setting up an effective Autism classroom.
Take a listen to hear all about my extensive experience in special education. I have started multiple autism programs across different school districts. Throughout this mini-series, I will cover classroom structure, organization strategies, communication methods, and managing paraprofessionals.
Whether you are new to the autism classroom or not, this episode and mini-series are worth listening to!
Resources Mentioned:
Teacher Binder Resource:Center Ideas Blog Post:Data Sheet BundleFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom for IWS TrainingShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode30
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This new episode of Teach Task Box Inspire discusses some beneficial strategies for preventing over-prompting in students with autism during instructional activities. It can be easy to over-prompt our students and assume they need more than we have given. However, the importance of allowing students time to process information and respond independently to tasks is vital.
By reducing prompts and giving students sufficient wait time, we can promote independence and improve learning outcomes significantly. Whether you are a veteran teacher or starting brand-new in your special education classroom, this episode is worth a listen!
Resources Mentioned:
Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom
Show Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode29
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In this episode, we discuss the concept of functional protesting in the context of supporting non-verbal or low-verbal students who struggle to communicate their needs without resorting to negative behaviors.
We will talk about the importance of teaching students how to appropriately express their desire for a break or disinterest in an activity, instead of relying on disruptive behaviors.
This episode outlines a structured approach to teaching this skill, ensuring that educators and caregivers can effectively support these students in advocating for their needs. You won't want to miss it!
Resources Mentioned:
Visual AidsFree training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education ClassroomShow Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode28
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