Afleveringen
-
They show up early, stay late, and hold the classroom together when everything feels like itâs falling apartâour paraprofessionals are true superheroes.
In this heartfelt episode, Iâm sharing 10 things every paraprofessional deserves to hearâbut may not get to hear often enough. These simple yet powerful affirmations go beyond the typical âthank youâ and help build the trust and appreciation our teams truly need.
If youâve ever struggled to find the right words or felt like a gift just wasnât enough⌠this episode is for you.
Youâll hear:
How to express genuine appreciation in the momentExamples of affirmations that stickA special message if you are a para listeningOne simple way to make a paraprofessionalâs dayâwithout spending a centđ§ Loved this episode? Donât miss Episode 15
âĄď¸ Easy Paraprofessional Appreciation Ideas
Itâs packed with fun and meaningful ways to show your support through small gifts and gestures.đ Grab the free printable Sticky Note Thank You Templates here:
âĄď¸ Read the blog post and download your free notes!Youâre doing an incredible jobâand your paras deserve to hear that, too. đ
Letâs say it loud, say it often, and make sure they know theyâre valued every step of the way.If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Ever feel completely drained after making way too many decisions in a day? Youâre not alone. Decision fatigue is real, and itâs affecting you, your students, and your teaching.
Here's what you'll learn:
â What decision fatigue is and how it shows up in teaching and everyday life
â Why having too many choices isnât always a good thing (yes, even when it comes to teaching resources!)
â Practical strategies to simplify your decision-makingâso you can spend less time overthinking and more time teachingIf youâve ever found yourself scrolling endlessly for the âperfectâ activity or feeling overwhelmed by too many choices, this episode is for you!
đ§ Hit play and letâs simplify your teaching life.If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
Feeling stuck in a small group slump? If your students are zoning out, constantly needing redirection, or just going through the motions, it might be time to shake things up!
In this episode, weâre diving into simple, high-energy strategies to keep small groups engaging and effectiveâwithout turning your classroom into chaos. Because letâs be realâwe need structure AND excitement, not a three-ring circus. đŞđ
What Youâll Learn in This Episode:
âď¸ How to structure small groups with a clear beginning, middle, and end
âď¸ Simple materials & prep hacks that make small groups sustainable
âď¸ Easy ways to boost engagement without overstimulation
âď¸ How to use your voice less (and save your sanity!)
âď¸ Fun ways to shake things up when students need a reset!
Letâs Connect!
⨠Follow me on Instagram â [@positivelylearning]⨠Save time with these ready-to-use Dry Erase Page Inserts for Math & Literacy â https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dry-Erase-Pages-for-Small-Groups-Literacy-and-Math-Visuals-Inserts-4717065
⨠Want more done-for-you independent work resources? Check out the Complete Independent Work Club! â https://positivelylearning.mykajabi.com/iws-complete
If you loved this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow special educatorâletâs build engaging small groups together! â¤ď¸If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Is independent work in your classroom actually working? Or does it feel more like a constant cycle of redirection, confusion, and prep overload?
In this episode, Iâm breaking down a simple, three-part system to help students work independently without constant interruptions. Plus, Iâm offering you a FREE Teach & Task Playbook with three low-prep activities to help you get started today! đ
đ What Youâll Learn in This Episode:
âď¸ Why independent work systems often fail (and how to fix it!)
âď¸ How task boxes, file folders, and work binders work together to build independence
âď¸ A real-talk approach to setting up a system that actually sticks
âď¸ How to grab your FREE Teach & Task Playbook to use with your students today!
đ§ Listen Now & Grab Your Free Playbook:
đ Download the Free Teach & Task Playbook Here!
đŹ Letâs Connect!
⨠Join the FREE Facebook group â Click here to request access!
⨠Follow me on Instagram â @positivelylearning
⨠Want even more done-for-you independent work resources? Check out the Complete Independent Work Club! â Click here for all the details!
If you loved this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow special educatorâletâs build independent classrooms together! â¤ď¸If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Social stories can make a big difference in helping students navigate routines, social expectations, and behavior challenges. But how do you make sure they actually work?
In todayâs episode, Iâm breaking down:
â What social stories are (and how Carol Gray developed them)
â Real-life examples of social stories for different student needs
â When to introduce a social story (so itâs helpful, not just reactive)
â A simple 5-sentence formula for writing an effective social story
â Pro-Tips to get the most out of social narrativesđ Mentioned in this episode:
Carol Grayâs Social Story⢠frameworkExample social stories for expectationsLink to ready-made social narratives for quick, effective supportđĄ Need social stories NOW?
Iâve got you covered! Get access to ready-to-go social stories for common classroom situations đ Social Narratives SEL Bundle
⥠Donât forget to subscribe & leave a review! It helps more educators find practical, no-fluff strategies that actually work.
If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Ever had a general education teacher refer a student for an IEP, hoping for a classroom aide or a removalâbut deep down, you knew that wasnât likely to happen? đââď¸
The ABC recording form for behavior trackingSimple data collection strategies that donât overwhelm teachersSocial stories and why they work for student behavior (hint: tune in next week for a deep dive!)
In this episode, Iâm sharing a real-life scenario where a gen ed teacher was struggling with a studentâs behavior and looking for a quick fix. Instead of just saying ânoâ to the IEP request, I took a proactive approach to support BOTH the student and the teacherâwithout adding extra work to my plate.
Youâll learn:
â How I used an ABC recording form to track behavior patterns
â The simple frequency tracker I gave the teacher (and why she loved it)
â How a social story and positive attention shifted the studentâs behavior
â What the real outcome looked like (ups, downs, and progressânot perfection)
â Key takeaways to use in your own classroom when behavior challenges arise
đ Mentioned in this episode:đĄ Want to make data collection feel easier?
Check out these ready-to-use behavior trackers and intervention tools đ ABC Data Tracking Form
⥠Donât forget to subscribe & leave a review! Your feedback helps reach more special educators who need support.If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Oops, you might be over-prompting! Let's fix that.
Ever feel like your students could do more on their ownâif only they werenât so used to getting help? Youâre not alone! In this episode, weâre diving into the prompt hierarchy and how using it the right way (and training paraprofessionals to do the same) can increase student independence instead of creating dependence on adult support.
đš What is a prompt hierarchy, and why does it matter?
đš How to train paraprofessionals to fade support instead of over-prompting
đš The one small shift that makes a BIG difference in student independence
Whether you feel like youâve got this down or you need a quick refresher, this episode will help you refine your approach so students get just the right amount of supportâno more, no less!
đ Want more? Check out the color-coded prompt hierarchy guide inside the Paraprofessional Training Binder and the Independent Work Clubhouse (part of the Task Box Dollar Club).
đŹ Letâs chat! DM me on Instagram @positivelylearning and let me knowâwhatâs your biggest challenge when it comes to prompting?
đ§ Hit play now, and letâs fix over-prompting together!If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Data collection doesnât have to be overwhelmingâespecially for paraprofessionals! In this episode, Iâm breaking down simple, stress-free ways for paras to help track student progress without extra work. Learn how to make data collection quick, seamless, and part of the independent work routine using checklists, sticky notes, and even photos.
If youâve ever struggled with getting consistent progress monitoringâor worried about adding too much to a paraprofessional's plateâthis episode is packed with practical, time-saving strategies you can start using today!
What Youâll Learn:
â How to make data tracking effortless during independent work
â The 3-second sticky note trick for quick progress notes
â Why photos can replace paperwork for data tracking
â The one simple shift that makes data collection natural and automatic
Resources Mentioned:
đš Join the Independent Work Clubhouse inside the Task Box Dollar Club for done-for-you data tracking tools â Click Here
đš Connect with me on Instagram â @positivelylearning
đĄ Try This: Pick one strategy from todayâs episode and test it in your classroom this week!
đ§ Hit play and make progress monitoring the easiest part of your day!If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Templates have always been a game-changer for special educators, but what if thereâs a way to take them even further? In this episode, we explore the next level of time-saving tools: custom AI. Youâll learn how templates and AI work together to save you time, reduce stress, and make recurring tasks like IEPs and progress reports feel easier. Plus, weâll cover practical tips for getting started and address the pros and cons of using AI in your workflow.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Episode 83: Setting Up a Special Educator Toolkit (to save time later!)Episode 78: Streamline Your Workflow with Time-Saving SystemsSpecial Educators Resource Room: Your Go-To for Time-Saving TemplatesDonât miss this episodeâit might just transform the way you work!
If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Life Skills 101: This episode breaks down everything you need to know about teaching life skills in a way that fits into your busy day.
Learn what life skills really are, why theyâre essential for student growth, and how to weave them into your daily routines without adding extra work.
Ready for practical strategies you can put into place TODAY?What Youâll Learn in This Episode:
The five key categories of life skills every student needs.How to teach life skills naturally throughout the day.Solutions for overcoming common challenges like time and resources.Why small wins matter and how to celebrate them.Resources Mentioned:
Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @positivelylearningTask Box Dollar Club - check out the free spreadsheet HERELife Skills Task Box Curriculum - 40 lessons with 80 task boxesIf you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Feeling burned out from saying âyesâ to everything? In this episode, Iâm diving into the art of setting boundaries and why saying ânoâ isnât just okayâitâs essential. From managing requests from admin and parents to dealing with guilt and staying in control of your workload, weâll explore practical strategies that will help you protect your energy and focus on what truly matters.
What Youâll Learn:
Why saying yes to everything leads to burnout.Practical tips for setting boundaries with admin, parents, paras, and yourself.How to deal with the guilt of saying no And more!Links Mentioned in Episode:
đ§ Ep 105: Parent CommunicationSpecial Educator Scripts: Paraprofessional CommunicationLetâs Connect:
Tag me on Instagram @positivelylearning and share your biggest takeaway from this episode!If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Data collection doesnât have to feel overwhelming. In this episode, Iâm getting real about the struggles of tracking all the things and why most of us are doing way too much. Youâll learn how to streamline your data collection process, focus on what matters, and use tools like independent work systems to simplify your life.
Why more data doesnât equal better teaching.Simple strategies to track meaningful progress without the overwhelm.How to use task boxes, file folders, and work binders as built-in data tools.
What Youâll Learn:Stop drowning in binders and paperworkâitâs time to collect less and teach more!
Links & Resources:
Resource library for independent work: Task Box Dollar Club
Connect with me on Instagram: @positivelylearning
Check out these previous episodes:
Ep. 82: Data Forms Every Special Educator Needs
Ep. 98: When Data Collection Isn't Feeling Helpful
Letâs Chat:
Whatâs your biggest struggle with data collection?
Tag me on Instagram and letâs talk!If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Happy New Year! đ In this episode, weâre diving into one of the most impactful changes you can make for your classroom in 2025: setting up an independent work system that actually works. Whether youâre new to task boxes or looking to refine your current setup, Iâll walk you through the essentials to save time, reduce chaos, and help your students thrive independently.
Plus, Iâm sharing a free, on-demand webinar that breaks it all down step by stepâperfect for a fresh start this semester! Ready to set up your system and see real results? Tune in now!
What Youâll Learn:
Why independent work systems are a game-changer for your classroom.The 3 biggest mistakes teachers make (and how to avoid them!).My proven, practical steps for creating a system that works for you and your students.Resources Mentioned:
đĽ Watch the Free Workshop: https://webinarkit.com/webinar/registration/62cbfa0bdc8d1245ca04f0dd
đŠ Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivelylearningFollow the Podcast:
Donât forget to subscribe for more tips to make your teaching life easierâand leave a review if you found this helpful. Thanks!If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
đ Surprise! Iâm popping in real quick with exciting newsâit's GIVEAWAY time!
You could win Lifetime Membership to the Complete Independent Work Systemâyour ultimate tool for creating a calm, independent, and thriving classroom in 2025. This giveaway prize is valued at $240 per year and includes:
â Task boxes, work binders, and file folders.
â Time-saving tools to set up your independent work system.
â All the resources you need to empower student independence.Hereâs how to enter:
1ď¸âŁ Click this link to enter yourself.
2ď¸âŁ Nominate a teacher friend who deserves a classroom glow-up.
3ď¸âŁ Thatâs itâyouâre in!Already a member? You can still win! If you join now and end up the lucky winner, your membership payments will be canceled, but youâll keep all the perks. đ
â° Donât waitâentries close on January 1st, and the winner will be announced January 3rd!
đ Enter the Giveaway Here!
Get ready for your 2025 glow-up! â¨
If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
This week's podcast episode is for you if 1) you're unsure how to set goals that actually stick and 2) you're unsure if you even want to set goals for 2025.
Ep 107 Teacher Goal Setting Yay or Nay?
There's a free download that will help you organize your new and improved goals for the new year! Find it in Positively Learning's Free Resource Library (plus a TON of other teacher freebies):
Click Here to Gain Access the Library:
https://positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Check out this HUGE time-saver for your classroom:
Task Box Dollar ClubIf you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Is a family advocate attending your next IEP meeting and you're wondering what to expect? This episode is for you! Learn what a family advocate is there for and practical strategies for navigating the meeting. This episode is for special educators, but it's also full of ideas for the entire IEP team.
Be sure to check out the previous episode all about communication - it's the perfect prelude to this episode:
105: Parent Communication: Let's Talk About It!
If you were hoping for holiday help without all the chaos, I've got you! Be sure to tune into last year's seasonal episode:
50: Holiday Ideas (Minus the Meltdowns)If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
This episode is full of scenarios every special educator has probably experienced at least a few times. Let's talk about some possible strategies and solutions with a focus on improving communication with parents and caregivers. I can't wait to hear what you think!
Need a freebie to make the next step feel easier? https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Special-Education-Teacher-Input-Forms-Free-Editable-IEP-Meeting-Parent-Form-9929329If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Thank you for tuning in to Special Educators Resource Room! This is a special episode all about finding your path to progress. Come take a tour of the Independent Work Clubhouse - a free resource hub that just opened up this week to members of the Task Box Dollar Club.
Not a member yet? No worries, there's still helpful information for you ESPECIALLY if you're troubleshooting your own classroom systems.
Be sure to click on over to see the inside of the clubhouse on YouTube:
Independent Work Club Tour
And take a closer peek:
Complete Independent Work ClubIf you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
In this episode of Special Educators Resource Room, weâre diving into your survey responses! From task box ideas for early learners to behavior management strategies and collaboration with paraprofessionals, this episode covers the topics you care about most.
Tune in for a quick breakdown of whatâs on your mindâand a sneak peek at whatâs coming next to support your classroom! Whether youâre looking for tools to streamline your day or strategies to build student independence, this episode has something for you.
Click here for the Task Boxes Facebook Group
Click here for the Special Educators Facebook GroupIf you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning -
Did you know that sorting and classifying objects can set the stage for math success? These skills go beyond basics, building the critical thinking kids need to make sense of the world. This weekâs podcast episode is filled with fun sorting activities and simple ways to add sorting into everyday life.
Be sure to click over to the blogpost for more tips and examples:
https://positivelylearningblog.com/sorting-and-classification-skills-for-early-math/If you're a busy special education teacher looking for tips, tricks, and resources to save you precious time, I've got you covered! I'm here to help you regain your confidence in the classroom and feel calm and collected as a special educator.
Tune in every Friday for practical tips, tools, and the support you need to to THRIVE in the classroom.
Grab your FREE Special Educators Cheat Sheets at positivelylearningblog.com/free-resource-library/
Join the Facebook group
I'd love to hear what's working for you! Send me a message on Instagram @positivelylearning - Laat meer zien