Teachers, especially special education teachers, often feel pressured to work beyond their contracted hours to get everything done. However, there are effective strategies to help manage the immense workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
By implementing specific techniques, teachers can complete their tasks efficiently during the school day and avoid the stress of working late. Here are some practical tips for achieving this goal.
Please Note: I know it’s never easy to balance work and home when you’re a teacher. I often struggled with this myself! The tips below really helped me manage things as best as possible, though. I hope they help you too!
Utilize Prep Time Effectively
One of the most valuable resources teachers have is their prep time. This is the designated time set aside for lesson planning, grading, and completing other important tasks. To maximize this time, it’s essential to stay organized and focused. That means no chit chatting in the copy room or scrolling on your phone – no matter how tempting it is! Be disciplined! Your 4 o’clock self will thank you!
Create a list of tasks that need to be accomplished during prep periods and prioritize them. For instance, if you know you need to write an Individualized Education Program (IEP), break it down into smaller tasks that can be completed in increments. Setting specific goals for each prep period will help you stay on track and make the most of the limited time available.
Plan Ahead
Preparation is key to managing workload effectively. Start planning for upcoming assignments or IEPs well in advance. For example, create templates for common sections of IEPs and fill them in as you gather information throughout the year. By having a framework ready, you can simply add individualized details as they come up, reducing the last-minute rush that often leads to extended work hours.
This was such a game changer for me that I created the IEP Toolkit! It lays out everything you need to write an IEP and plan the meeting for it. The IEP Writing Timeline is included in it and it breaks things down week by week so you can always stay on top of it! Check it out here!
Set Boundaries with Time Management
Establishing clear boundaries around work hours can prevent burnout and ensure you maintain a balanced life. Consider setting a strict end time for your workday. When you know that you have a finite amount of time to complete tasks, you are more likely to focus and work efficiently. Use timers or alarms to remind yourself when it’s time to wrap up for the day, helping you resist the temptation to stay late.
Limit After-School Commitments
While it’s easy to get involved in numerous after-school activities, these commitments can quickly add to your workload. Be selective about the extracurricular activities or meetings you attend. If you find that certain commitments consistently lead to extended hours, it may be worth reconsidering your participation. Focus on the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, rather than those that add stress. Remember, “No.” is a complete sentence, and it’s okay to turn down requests for your participation.
Delegate When Possible
Don’t hesitate to seek support from colleagues or use available resources. Collaboration can lighten the load significantly. For example, share lesson planning with fellow teachers or ask for assistance in organizing events. This not only helps manage your time but also fosters a sense of teamwork and community within your school. Don’t forget to use your para too!
Embrace Technology
Utilizing technology can streamline many tasks that traditionally consume a lot of time. Consider using educational software your school purchases and apps designed to simplify lesson planning, grading, and communication with students and parents. For instance, learning management systems can automate reminders and feedback, allowing you to focus more on teaching rather than administrative tasks. Google Forms can help you gather data and graph and organize it with relative ease. Use the tools available to you!
Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Finally, prioritize self-care and ensure that your personal life is not overshadowed by work responsibilities. Engage in activities outside of school that promote relaxation and enjoyment. Whether it’s spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, or exercising, taking time for yourself will ultimately make you more productive during work hours. A clear separation between work and personal life can help maintain mental clarity and rejuvenate your passion for teaching.
By implementing these strategies, teachers can effectively manage their workload without extending their hours beyond what is contractually agreed upon. A focused approach, combined with thoughtful planning and self-care, will lead to a more sustainable teaching career and a more fulfilling personal life. It’s not always easy, but it can be done! I hope this helped!
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Teaching high school students with special needs requires a unique set of strategies and approaches to ensure that every student can thrive in an educational environment.
Here are 20 tips to help guide teachers in creating an effective and supportive classroom for high school special education students.
Strategies and Tips for Teaching High School Special Ed
Understand Individual Needs
Every student has unique strengths and challenges. Take the time to understand each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and specific learning requirements.
Foster Independence
Encourage students to take ownership of their learning. Teach self-advocacy skills and provide opportunities for them to make choices regarding their education. These self-advocacy resources are a huge help!
Use Community-Based Instruction
Incorporate community-based instruction (CBI) into your curriculum. This allows students to learn skills in real-world settings, such as grocery stores, libraries, and local businesses.
Create a Structured Environment
Establish clear routines and expectations. A structured classroom helps students feel secure and understand what is expected of them throughout the day.
Differentiate Instruction
Provide a range of instructional methods to cater to varying learning styles. Use visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology to engage all learners.
Incorporate Life Skills Training
Teach practical life skills that students will need after graduation, such as cooking, budgeting, and job readiness. These skills are essential for their independence. Visual recipes can help a lot in these situations because they cut down on the required reading which may be troublesome for some students.
Utilize Assistive Technology
Leverage technology to support learning. Tools like speech-to-text software, communication devices, audiobooks, and educational apps can significantly enhance student engagement and understanding.
Collaborate with Other Educators
Work closely with general education teachers, specialists, and paraprofessionals to create an inclusive learning environment. Collaboration allows for sharing of resources and expertise.
Encourage Peer Interaction
Promote social skills and peer relationships by incorporating group work and collaborative projects. This helps build communication skills and fosters friendships.
Provide Frequent Feedback
Regularly assess student progress and provide constructive feedback. This helps students understand their strengths and areas that need improvement, keeping them motivated.
Involve Families
Engage families in the educational process by providing regular updates on student progress and inviting them to participate in meetings regarding their child’s IEP.
Offer Job Shadowing Opportunities
Facilitate job shadowing experiences for students to explore potential career paths. This hands-on experience can help them understand the expectations of various professions.
Implement a Daily Schedule
Create a visual schedule that outlines the day’s activities. This provides clarity and helps students anticipate transitions throughout the day.
Encourage Student Participation
Involve students in planning their learning experiences. Allow them to suggest topics or activities they are interested in exploring.
Be Patient and Flexible
Understand that learning takes time, especially for students with special needs. Be prepared to adjust your teaching methods based on student responses and needs.
Use Positive Behavior Support
Implement positive behavior interventions to encourage appropriate behaviors in the classroom. Recognizing and rewarding positive actions can motivate students to succeed.
Incorporate Guest Speakers
Invite guest speakers from various professions to share their experiences with students. This can inspire students and provide insights into different career paths.
Promote Volunteer Opportunities
Encourage students to engage in volunteer work within the community. This not only helps them develop skills but also fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
Create a Safe Learning Environment
Ensure that your classroom is a safe space where all students feel respected and valued. Address bullying promptly and promote inclusivity among peers.
Continually Educate Yourself
Stay informed about best practices in special education by attending workshops, reading relevant literature, and participating in professional development opportunities.
Must-Have Supplies for Teaching High School Special Education
In addition to the tips above, having the items below can also make it easier for you to teach and your students to learn! There are affiliate links below to the items mentioned that might make it easier for you to teach.
3-Ring Binders
Binders are essential for organizing various materials such as lesson plans, student assignments, and administrative documents. Using different colored binders for different subjects or purposes can make navigation easier and help maintain an organized system within the classroom.
Sheet Protectors
These transparent sleeves are perfect for keeping important documents safe from wear and tear, allowing for repeated use. Utilizing sheet protectors for student medical information, lesson plans, or frequently referenced materials can ensure that they remain pristine and accessible throughout the school year.
Laminator and Laminating Sheets
A laminator is a valuable tool for preserving documents and making them durable, which is ideal for items that need to be reused or displayed. By laminating visual aids, flashcards, or interactive materials, you can extend their lifespan and enhance classroom activities. Check out the video below for some of my best laminating tips and tricks!
Trays for Student Work Submission
Providing designated areas for students to submit their work keeps the classroom organized and reduces clutter. Labeling trays by class period or subject streamlines the process of collecting assignments and helps students know exactly where to place their completed work.
Hanging File Folder System
This system allows you to keep track of work for absent students, making it easier for them to catch up when they return. Creating a folder for each student with their name on it can facilitate organization and ensure that all missed assignments are readily available.
Paper Trays
Vertical storage solutions like paper trays help organize papers that need to be distributed or filed later, saving space in the classroom. Using different trays for various types of materials (e.g., worksheets, tests, handouts) maintains organization and makes it easier to locate necessary documents.
Motivational Items
Small rewards can significantly boost motivation and engagement among students, especially those who may struggle with staying focused. Keeping a stash of these items (i.e. – candy, water bottle stickers, etc.) in your desk allows you to use them as incentives for completing tasks or displaying positive behavior.
Colored Pencils
Colored pencils are essential for art projects, visual aids, and hands-on learning activities that enhance creativity in the classroom. Investing in a class set ensures that every student has access to these supplies, fostering collaboration and creative expression in group projects. Besides, a lot of kids just love to color and draw and colored pencils are a great supply for having on hand so they can do so.
Pencil Sharpener
A reliable sharpener is crucial for maintaining writing tools in good condition, ensuring that students can always participate in activities without interruptions. Consider a heavy-duty electric sharpener that can efficiently handle high usage and minimize downtime during lessons.
Class Set of Clipboards
Clipboards provide a portable writing surface that makes it easier for students to work in different environments, such as the classroom, hallway, or outdoors. Using clipboards during group work or outdoor activities allows for flexibility in learning settings and encourages active participation.
Heavy-Duty Hole Puncher
A high-capacity hole punch saves time when organizing large amounts of paper, ensuring everything is neatly compiled in binders. Keeping this tool accessible at your desk allows you to handle paper organization efficiently throughout the day instead of bringing it home with you!
Extra Art Supplies
Having a variety of art supplies available encourages creativity and can be integrated into lessons to support diverse learning styles. Stocking up on markers, crayons, and other supplies at the beginning of the year when they’re often on sale can ensure that you have enough materials for various projects.
Visual Aids and Charts
These tools help reinforce learning concepts through visual representation to support your visual learners. Creating a visual schedule for the classroom can help students understand daily routines and expectations more clearly.
Assistive Technology Tools
Devices or software that assist with learning can significantly benefit students with disabilities by providing alternative methods of engagement. Researching available resources through your school district or local organizations may uncover grants or lending programs for technology that can enhance the classroom experience.
Calm Down Tools (e.g., stress balls, fidget toys)
These tools help students manage anxiety and improve focus by providing sensory feedback during lessons. They’re not just for students in elementary or middle school! Designating a specific area in the classroom where students can request these tools as needed allows them to self-regulate without disrupting class activities.
Storage Boxes or Bins
Storage containers keep supplies organized and easily accessible while minimizing clutter in the classroom environment. Labeling each box with its contents (e.g., art supplies, manipulatives) ensures that students can quickly find what they need without wasting time searching. Label, label, label!
By incorporating these tips into your teaching practice and having a classroom equipped with the necessary supplies, you will create a more effective and supportive learning environment for high school special education students. It will help them achieve their fullest potential and make teaching easier for you!
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Teachers are always learning and are always searching for new strategies, instructional methodology, and ideas to help their students learn.
Sure, we have professional development sessions provided by the districts and schools we work for… but they aren’t always geared towards special education teachers. Or it’s a slideshow that’s repeated each year.
Thankfully there are dozens of national and international conferences that are held every year, and are geared towards special needs teachers, parents, and professionals.
Below are a few conferences for special ed teachers, linked with descriptions, that are recommended by fellow special education teachers.
Wrightslaw special education law and advocacy programs are designed to meet the needs of parents, advocates, educators, attorneys, and healthcare providers who represent children with disabilities.
IDEAS provides high-quality professional learning environments through workshops, sessions, and networking related to teaching students with disabilities.
Come collectively focus on common concerns and share proven solutions that address issues and challenges experienced by individuals with autism, sensory disabilities, and low-incidence disabilities across their lifespan.
Committed to increasing the performance of students with disabilities, thereby enhancing their ability to graduate and achieve productive post-secondary outcomes.
The Autism Conference provides comprehensive, evidence-based information to assist educators, other professionals, and families in developing effective educational programming for all students with autism spectrum disorders.
Deepen your assistive technology knowledge and strengthen your implementation strategies. The conference week is designed to dig deeper into critical areas that have the power—when implemented strategically—to transform your classroom, your school, your district, your practice.
The NDSC cares deeply about serving the needs of all families, including those with loved ones with co-occurring autism, autism-like behaviors, or complex needs. Includes sessions like “Adult Siblings Track” and “Film Festival”.
Stock up on top tips, simple strategies, and new digital tools for teaching Pre-K, handwriting, and keyboarding. Workshops include free materials and easy plans that are ready for first-day-of-school implementation.
The Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship (GTF) is a professional development program for pre-K–12 educators, created by Lindblad Expeditions and the National Geographic Society. Selected educators participate in immersive voyages, gaining hands-on experience to enhance their teaching. Over two years, Fellows serve as ambassadors for National Geographic’s initiatives, fostering geographic awareness and inspiring students to engage with global challenges.
RCA EXP is an immersive professional development experience designed for educators to observe classes and participate in engaging workshops. Participants learn strategies to inspire a passion for learning, support student success, and foster positive relationships within the school community. The program combines classroom observations with hands-on learning, providing attendees with the motivation and tools needed to return to their own classrooms energized and equipped for the challenges they face.
The Responsive Classroom one-day workshop focuses on enhancing communication skills among students and teachers. Participants assess and reflect on their teaching methods while learning strategies to promote active listening, purposeful questioning, and respectful disagreements. The goal is to improve teacher language that fosters deeper academic engagement and supports effective communication in the classroom.
Kagan Professional Development offers engaging training opportunities for educators focused on enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. Utilizing research-based Kagan Structures, the program provides strategies that foster active participation and cooperative learning in the classroom. With workshops, academies, and coaching available, Kagan aims to support teachers in implementing effective instructional practices tailored to diverse learning needs. The organization operates both nationally and internationally, providing resources and support to educators worldwide.
What other conferences have you attended that you would recommend to other teachers?
Have you attended one of these conferences and loved it?! Share your experiences in the comments below!
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Are you doing enough active listening activities with your students? Active listening is a crucial skill that helps students engage more fully in their learning experiences. It involves not just hearing words but understanding, interpreting, and responding to them.
Active Listening Activities for the Classroom MDC
Active listening fosters better communication, enhances comprehension, and promotes a supportive classroom environment – all things that are very important for special ed students! Here, we explore ten fun activities that encourage active listening among students, making learning interactive and enjoyable for both students and their teacher (that’s you!)!
Why Active Listening Matters
Active listening is essential for several reasons.
It Improves Communication Skills
Students who practice active listening develop better communication abilities, which are vital for academic success and social interactions.
Enhances Comprehension
When students listen actively, they are more likely to understand and remember information, leading to improved academic performance.
Builds Empathy
By paying attention to others, students learn to appreciate different perspectives and develop empathy toward their peers.
Promotes Classroom Engagement
Activities that require active listening keep students engaged and focused, creating a more dynamic and interactive learning environment.
Must-Try Active Listening Activities
Now, let’s explore some fun and engaging activities that can help students practice active listening skills.
Simon Says
In this classic game, the teacher gives instructions starting with “Simon says,” and students must follow those directions only when prefaced by that phrase. This game not only encourages students to listen attentively but also helps them practice following directions accurately. It can be made more challenging by increasing the complexity of commands or introducing physical activities. Simon Says was always one of my students’ favorites!
Story Circle
In a story circle, students sit in a circle, and the teacher starts a story with one sentence. Each student takes turns adding a sentence to build the story. This activity requires students to listen carefully to what their peers say to ensure continuity and coherence in the narrative. It fosters creativity while reinforcing the importance of paying attention to details. Some students struggle with this so make sure you let them know that even a short sentence is fine.
Whisper Chain
Also known as “Telephone,” this game involves whispering a message from one student to another until it reaches the last person in line. The goal is to see how accurately the message is conveyed by the end. This activity highlights the importance of clear communication and attentive listening, as messages can easily become distorted if not carefully passed along. Incorporate this game into a lesson about how details of events in history are often skewed after much retelling.
Sound Scavenger Hunt
In this sensory activity, students close their eyes and listen for specific sounds in the classroom or outdoors. After a few minutes of focused listening, they report what they heard. This activity sharpens auditory discrimination skills and encourages mindfulness as students tune into their environment. This is a great calm down activity!
Follow the Rhythm
The teacher claps a simple rhythm, and students must listen carefully to repeat it accurately. This activity can be varied by introducing different rhythms or adding movements to accompany the clapping. It helps students develop concentration and improves their memory and coordination. I liked to do this one during circle time each morning.
Guess the Sound
In this fun activity, teachers can play recordings of various sounds such as animals, vehicles, or household items. Students then identify these sounds based on their listening skills. This activity not only sharpens auditory recognition but also engages students in critical thinking as they deduce what they hear.
Drawing from Description
In this creative exercise, the teacher describes a simple picture while students draw what they hear without seeing the original image. Afterward, students can share their drawings with the class. This activity emphasizes careful listening and interpretation and allows for artistic expression.
Musical Statues
Students dance while music plays but must freeze when it stops. They must listen carefully for the change in music to react promptly. This fun game keeps students active while honing their listening skills and self-control.
Listen and Act
In this activity, the teacher gives a series of simple instructions for students to follow in order (e.g., “Stand up, touch your nose, and sit down”). This task encourages attentive listening, as students must remember and execute multiple directions correctly.
Story Comprehension
Reading a short story aloud and then asking students questions about the details reinforces their listening skills. This activity ensures that students are engaged with the material and helps teachers assess comprehension levels. Be sure to use this one strategically as you want to have read aloud times be fun and simply for enjoyment as well.
Incorporating active listening activities into the classroom not only makes learning enjoyable but also equips students with essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. By engaging in these fun exercises, students learn to listen attentively, communicate effectively, and appreciate diverse perspectives—all vital components of successful learning and collaboration.
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Who doesn’t love a good seasonal craft?! As a school-based occupational therapist (OT), I LOVE a good craft. Simply Special Ed has so many adorable, easy-to-use and super engaging visual crafts that I love to use. They are especially engaging and motivating for my students in self-contained classrooms. I love how easy they are to adapt/differentiate based on student’s strengths and needs. This blog is designed to help you work smarter, not harder while you and your students enjoy some fun visual crafts for the winter season!
Prep Once & Reuse!
With 60-90 students on my caseload at any given time, I love to have things ready to go and easily prepped! I tend to keep parts of the visual crafts from year to year. I review a craft and laminate parts that seem reusable. For example, the visual directions or the material list. Students can check things off with a dry erase marker. Some of my students don’t collect their own materials, so this sheet isn’t needed for every student. I sometimes even laminate and use velcro on the sequencing pages to reuse!
Materials Checklist [laminate & dry erase OR one for each student]
Craft Sentence (Cut & Paste) [print]
Sequencing Worksheets [laminate & use velcro OR one for each student]
“Let’s Review” Survey [print – I like to send these home to families!]
Target Goals with Crafts!
School-based OTs work on a variety of things [check out this blog to see what a “day in the life” could look like!], but many of them could be addressed while working on visual crafts! For example, crafts address:
As pictured above, this craft can address a student is writing on handwriting or copying skills! With legibility components related to a 3 lined paper structure as part of the goal, I added lines to the sequencing sheet. There is an option to cut and paste the steps, but it can easily be adapted! I love how easily everything can be up- or down-graded to meet the needs of all students!
Most of the crafts involve scissor skills as well. I love the shape reindeer because it can be used for progress monitoring as many of my kiddos have goals to cut developmental shapes! There are a variety of shapes, sizes and complexities to meet the need of all the students. I might even have students work together to complete the task and assign roles based on their goal areas.
Co-treat with Speech Therapists!
There are so many skills built into these activities! As they say, many hands make light work. It just makes sense to utilize these visual crafts in a “co-treat” setting. Lately, I have been collaborating with our behavior specialist on cooking and craft groups monthly in our autistic support classrooms! Just because these visual crafts are for “December” doesn’t mean you can use some of them throughout the other winter months. Also check out the January visual crafts or the year-long bundle!
My speech therapist colleagues love the “Let’s Review” Survey that comes with each craft! It is an easy way for them to target comprehension goals. I love to send it home with the craft so that parents can see what the student did and their thoughts on it! Historically, I have run a “Friday group” with the speech therapist in my multiple disabilities support (MDS) and/or autistic support classrooms using many of these resources. This works for all levels! My high school self contained students LOVE these crafts, and the visual directions with real pictures make it easy for them to be independent. We love to target problem solving and functional communication [asking for materials] through these types of projects! The possibilities are endless!
Most self-contained classroom schedules include calendar time. It is a time when students practice the functional skill of reading a calendar and making connections with the real world. This is also a great time to introduce math skills! In this blog post, I share how I teach calendar math in a self-contained classroom.
What is Calendar Math?
Calendar math is a routine that develops math skills using a calendar. In addition to learning the days, months, and year, math concepts that can be covered during this time include counting, number sense, and patterns.
How I Teach Calendar Math
There are many ways in which calendar math can be taught. Prior to starting calendar math, it is important to determine the math concepts that is appropriate for students in your self-contained classroom. Additionally, it is equally as important to make sure calendar math fits in your schedule as a daily routine. This allows math concepts to be practiced repeatedly and built upon itself. Below are three activities that I do when I teach calendar math in my self-contained classroom.
While establishing the date, we go through the days of the week, months of the year, and count out the date (e.g., 16 for February 16). In order to promote the math concept of number sense, we practice counting forward and backward.
Place Value
I also count the number of days in school during calendar time. I use tangible manipulatives to help students visualize place values.
Pattern Recognition
Calendar time offers a great opportunity to teach the math concept of patterns (e.g., ABAB, AABB, etc.). I assign an element of our pattern to each calendar day. For instance, in an ABAB pattern, I will alternate between a heart and a triangle each day of the month. As a class, we will discuss and predict the upcoming element in our pattern.
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Choosing the best field trips for your self-contained classroom can seem daunting. For your convenience, I have compiled a list of 10 field trips that work for self-contained classrooms! Please keep in mind your students’ goals, the needed support, and, most importantly, their safety during the trip.
1. Local Park
Each fall, my classroom takes a field trip to one of the local parks nearby. It’s a quick 10-minute bus ride to the park. Our park has handmade gnome homes hidden throughout the park. We work with an outside agency to target literacy-based goals with the students. They each choose a book or two on their reading level, search for the gnome homes, and read to the gnomes! We also make pinecone bird feeders, have a picnic lunch, learn about our Free Little Library, make s’mores, and have a dance party! You can really get creative with activities to do at a park!
2. Grocery Store
A great community-based field trip for your self-contained class is visiting a grocery store. Grocery store field trips can work on a myriad of goals for your students. Is your class working on cooking, recipes, or creating shopping lists? Maybe your student is working on money exchange and needs real-life practice. You might have students who need more practice with communication or social skills with new people in a novel environment. Whatever the case, a grocery store field trip is a win!
Restaurants are an amazing place to promote independence in your students. From making a meal choice, communicating that choice to restaurant staff, table manners, and exchanging money, your students will be able to generalize skills they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world experiences.
4. Fire Station
Your students would be sure to love a trip to the local fire station! They will learn about fire safety, see a firefighter in all of their gear so they won’t be scared to see them in an emergency, try on the gear themselves, and maybe get to sit in the trucks!
5. Children’s Museum
Looking for a place for your students to explore interests and facilitate independent and creative play? Look no further than a children’s museum! These field trips are great for collaborative play and practicing skills prior to generalizing them to real-world experiences!
6. Sensory-Friendly Movie
Do your students enjoy movies but aren’t quite ready for the stimulating atmosphere of a typical movie night? Try taking them to a sensory-friendly showing of a movie at a local theater. Most theaters offer this experience; you may just need to reach out to the box office or sales team. You can also find information for these movies on the AMC Theater Website or even on the Regal Website.
7. Zoo or Aquarium
Are your students obsessed with animals or ocean life? Then you may be looking to take them on a trip to a zoo or aquarium! Many of these places offer hands-on experiences, as well as staff to teach students about the animals and their habitats. This field trip is sure to be a hit!
Many bowling alleys offer sensory-friendly experiences for our students. The lights dim, and the music is off. Bowling is a great way for students to learn a new game, taking turns, counting, and rule-following.
Do your students have a lot of energy to get out? Do your students like to jump, bounce, roll, and flip? You may be looking for a trip to a trampoline park! Trampoline parks are another field trip destination that offer sensory-friendly experiences.
10. Farm, Pumpkin Patch, Apple Orchard
Finally, a potentially seasonal yet fun field trip to round out our list. A pumpkin patch or apple orchard! There are so many fun activities to do at these places like petting zoos, pumpkin or fruit picking, tire slides, corn mazes, corn pits, and so much more! If a pumpkin patch or orchard is out of season, a trip to a local farm would be a great substitute! Your students can learn about planting and harvesting crops, why the animals on the farm are important, and why farmers themselves are important to our economy!
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Extended School Year (ESY), aka summer school, can be extremely beneficial for students with special needs. It allows them to continue to follow a daily routine and prevents them from the dreaded “summer slide”. Here are some tips for what content teachers can cover in ESY, as well as how to collect data on student progress.
Image from myprivateprofessor.com
Review routines and procedures
In my opinion, the best way to start off ESY, especially if you are starting with a new class or have any new students, is to review school rules, procedures, and expectations. Typically, students attending ESY will have at least a week or two off after the regular school year ends. The first few days/the first week is a great time to review daily expectations for students.
This review doesn’t have to be boring, especially if you have the same students that you had all year. There are games you can play, such as this fun review game that is jeopardy style. For younger students, using social stories, like this one from SSE, can also be an engaging way to review expectations. You can also have students play file folder games to practice sequencing when it comes to following school rules.
It’s also a great idea to go over class and individual schedules for students so they have an idea of what to expect during the day. Some ESY programs are half days, some are full days, and it can look different from the regular school year. Schedules like this one from SSE can limit uncertainty for students.
Review academic material from the school year and do fun activities
ESY is mainly for students to not regress on gains they made during the school year. Personally, I do not teach any new content during ESY and instead use it as a time to review. Again, this does not have to be boring. I try to make it as engaging as possible for my students, since I know they would rather not be at school while other kids are off for the summer.
For the past three summers, I have based my ESY lesson planning off of the “national days”. Every day of the year is a national day for something, and during the summer, I try to base the day’s activities off of a fun national day. For example, August 6th is national root beer float day. On that day, we make root beer floats and do this fun states of matter activity to go along with it. It can also be as basic as having students work on a snake themed skip counting paper in math for national snake day. For national gummy worm day, we do an activity where students measure gummy worms before and after they are stretched and find the difference. You can find a list of the national days on the National Today website.
Focus on IEP goals and monitor progress
ESY is the perfect time to focus on IEP goals and make sure students have progress monitoring completed for the upcoming school year. Students can work in goal bins, which are bins (or folders, binders, etc.) that have ready to go activities that target their goal. I set aside about 20-25 minutes a day during ESY called “goal time” where students can work from their bins. You can read more about how to set up goal bins in this SSE blog post.
I prefer digital paperwork vs. physical copies, so if you’re like me, this IEP data tracking google slides form is a great way to house all of your students and their goals in one place. If students have a goal that needs to be monitored weekly, I will pull them every Friday to give them a quick assessment and mark their progress here. I do the same thing for bi-weekly, monthly, and quarterly goals. If you prefer paper copies, you could always print a physical copy of this tracking form, or use something like this to keep in a binder for each student.
ESY doesn’t need to be stressful for students or teachers! It can be a time to really get to know your students, do activities that you may not have had time for during the regular school year, review expectations, and monitor progress. Doing these things well will help ensure that students keep growing academically and socially.
https://www.exploringsilentminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Copy-of-blogger-header-templates-3.png315560Silent Mindhttps://www.exploringsilentminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Exploring-silent-minds-color.pngSilent Mind2025-02-05 17:33:202025-02-05 17:43:03Teaching ESY: What Content to Cover and How to Collect Data
My students and I LOVE cooking in the classroom! Cooking is an awesome way to give your students some crucial life skills practice. I love watching my students build independence as they follow visual recipes, and it is so fun to see them try new foods! Looking to incorporate this life skill into your classroom? Read on to learn about some awesome springtime recipes!
Simple Visual Recipes
All of the visual recipe packs come with worksheets to enhance comprehension!
Simple Visual Recipes are picture-supported recipes and activities for cooking in the classroom. Each recipe has an ingredients and tools list, sequencing, the visual steps, a survey page, and a tool and ingredient worksheet.
In my classroom, we always cook on Fridays. Each week, I love sending our recipe and related activities home so that parents can see what we worked on. It’s a great conversation starter! Plus, they will have a copy of the visual recipe to try out at home with their children.
March and April Visual Recipes
The March Visual Recipe pack has four recipes to try!
Each monthly pack comes with four recipes. Some of the are seasonal (like a Shamrock Mix) and some are great for any time of year (like Banana Shakes). I love that because it gives me the flexibility to use different recipes when I need them!
In the March Visual Recipes pack, you will find recipes for Leprechaun Shake, English Muffin Pizza, Peanut Butter and Jelly, and Shamrock Mix.
In the April Visual Recipes pack there are recipes for Rice Marshmallow Egg, Bunny Mix, Peanut Butter Squares, and Banana Shake.
Cooking is a Life Skill!
When you cook in the classroom with your students, you have the chance to target many different life skills for your students. First and foremost, cooking will help your students increase their independence! It is so amazing to see how, with practice, students start to progress to completing recipes with minimal assistance. This translates into cooking and helping out more at home!
Another benefit is helping students learn safety and hygiene rules! My students have learned that they wash their hands before we start, and we go over the rules for keeping things germ-free. When we are using different cooking tools, I teach the proper way to handle things to keep us all safe.
Finally, cooking provides opportunities to practice social skills and manners. Students need to listen to instructions and follow directions in order for the recipe to work. They must take turns and be patient while waiting to complete steps in the recipe. And, students will practice their manners when serving and trying new foods!
This free PB & J recipe is a great way to introduce visual recipes in your classroom!
Cooking is truly one of my favorite parts of my classroom schedule. Ready to give Simple Visual Recipes a try? Check out this Peanut Butter and Jelly recipe for free!
Do you cook with your students? What are your favorite things to make with them? Share your ideas below!
https://www.exploringsilentminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/recipes-1024x576-1.jpg5761024Silent Mindhttps://www.exploringsilentminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Exploring-silent-minds-color.pngSilent Mind2025-02-05 17:33:182025-02-05 17:43:05Spring Cooking Activities: Simple Recipes for Life Skills Practice
Buying presents for teenagers can be tricky! Add an Autism diagnosis, and you may wonder what the perfect gift is. Autistic children express themselves differently and may like different things, but they are children all the same!
Choosing the ideal gift for your child should not be difficult. And, while youngsters on the autism spectrum may appear challenging, they are the kindest and most grateful. It’s not easy for them to articulate it compared to other teenagers.
The Ultimate List of Gift Ideas for Teenagers with Autism
Having a way to turn your bedroom into a magical sensory experience is the perfect gift for autistic teens. The Star Light Galaxy Projector transforms any room into the most soothing yet vivid starry Nebula clouds and Laser Night Sky. Like a portable planetarium, your teen will get the most relaxing visuals from this galaxy projector. It feels like you’re drifting calmly into space at night.
With 16.7 million colors behind green stars that float across your ceiling walls & multiple brightness settings, you’ll never run out of options with this multiple starlight projector. One can also use pocket projectors like PIQO, which are easy and comfortable. These projectors are very handy and automatic in use. However, it is always a user’s choice what kind of projectors they require, automatic or manual.
If your teen struggles with sleep, this is the device they will love! Since it works with Alexa & Google, you can get creative with playlists, audiobooks, and voice commands. Plus, it has a smart sleep shutdown timer and mobile app, so it can turn on and off automatically anytime you want. Addiction to technology may be a fear of parents, and the question where can I send my out of control teenager the teen mental health programs help to improve your teen’s mental health.
Fortunately, if you want to get a hold of this amazing product at a fantastic discount, you can use the Amazon gift finder, which allows you to filter your search by gender, age, price, and gift type. By utilizing this feature, you’ll be assured of being redirected to the merchant with the best price, and you can have it delivered gift-wrapped, so you won’t have to worry about that.
Amazon Echo Show 8
Amazon Echo Show has many cool features and can even be customized with a “blueprint” for family use. We love using ours to play music, trivia games, and more. You can also make phone calls and use many other skills to make the most of this amazing device.
Autistic kids have their favorite special things. If you fully understand his preferences, know his characteristics, and design a customized one-of-a-kind keychain for him, it will make them feel favored and cared for and make him feel happy. Any style and pattern can be customized. If you have an idea, it can be realized on the keychain.
Pokémon
Pokemon is entertaining and still a hot ticket item for all children. Something about Pichacu captures everyone’s attention! The most popular item out there is the set of Pokémon Cards.
Another great option that every Pokémon needs is a binder to organize their collection. There are so many to choose from, including this awesome Charizard one.
Children of all ages share the novelty of collecting rare Pokémon. And the challenge of searching for rare ones makes them even more excited and energized.
Tall Bubble Lamps
Ever thought of bubble lamps or similar items? You can even find them in the form of speakers with Bluetooth to combine with other pieces. These are used in occupational therapy a lot and have amazing benefits, along with being fun! These are great gift ideas for autistic teenagers!
The mesmerizing bubble lamps will create a sensory experience and make the child relaxed and calm.
WordSearch by Goliath Games
The race is on with WordSearch by Goliath Game. This exciting version of the classic hidden word puzzle – turns a solitary activity into a fun group word game as players go on a word search.
Rotate the specially designed circular board to reveal the word that the players will race to find on this turn. Everyone plays simultaneously, and the first player to locate the word marks it with transparent colored tiles.
The Multi-Functional “Pressure Therapy”
Do your teens love intense pressure and sensory of that kind? You place your hand into the squeeze reliever, which strokes and vibrates to produce the neural input your kids love. If your teenager has autism and enjoys sensory input over their hands, the squeeze reliever is a good gift for a child with autism.
Floating 3D Moon Night Light Lamp
This unbelievable magnetic levitation moon lamp will leave your autistic teen amazed. The moon night light floats and spins automatically in mid-air freely without any support or contact. This will help them feel calm and present, plus it’s super cool!
Color Smash by Pressman Toys
Slap your way to victory with Color Smash by Pressman Toys. This test of color coordination smashes the splat with the same color and name to win the deck! It’s quick to learn and easy to play! When it comes to great gift ideas for autistic teenagers, ColorSmash is an awesome choice. Pinch Me Therapy Dough
Pinch Me. Therapy Dough is a therapeutic dough with many uses; strengthening hands, lowering anxiety, and having sensory input. It is a fabulous gift idea for autistic teenagers.
Driving Lessons
Teens with special needs may learn differently. You can make driving lessons happen if learning how to drive can be an option. Contact a driving school for extra training. Teenagers with autism require extra practice and must be offered the chance if driving can be a reality.
Squishmallows are all the rage right now; there is a good reason why! These awesome plushes are so squishy and such a sensory relief! They come in multiple different sizes, colors, and characters. Some varieties even have bellies with sequins or different textures to make it the ultimate sensory toy!
Whether your teen uses them as a pillow, something to squish, or a toy, they will love these Squishmallows. You may even want to order one for yourself!
Perplexus
This is a puzzle game highly recommended by many parents with autistic teenagers. This Star Wars Death Star Perplexus brings amazing lights and sounds to the award-winning range of Perplexus 3-D games!
Large Sensory Pillow
These large sensory pillows provide gentle sensory stimulation with soothing textures. The Sensory Pillow is super soft and comes in very gentle colors. Your teen will love using this at home and on the go!
Slow Rising Squishies
Slow Rising Squishies are all the craze right now, and the reason is so! They give great sensory input and are fun to collect. Some of them, like this jumbo dog-shaped squishy, are scented!
Spaghetti Headz
Spaghetti Headz easily enters a girl’s hair to create a trendy look. Girls with autism find it a simpler option to catch up with the current trends that their counterparts are up to.
XP-PEN Artist13.3 Pro 13.3
If your teen is a budding artist, the XP-PEN Artist13.3 Pro 13.3 will be their perfect gift! It allows them full control to design the most vibrant art without limitations seamlessly!
Sunset Lamp (16 Colors!)
The sunset lamp projector is all the rage this year, and I can see why! It can cast amazing circular lights on the walls, ceiling, and floor. The farther the distance, the larger the projection that can be projected on the wall or ceiling.
While there are many on the market, we love the one made by Encalife for its quality and 16-color settings!
Gift cards that permit them to practice independence
It can be a Visa card and tries to teach them budgeting, spending, and being independent in society. A great place to get real gift cards at a real discount is Raise.com.
Pin Art
Pin Art is a classic gift that is still awesome/ This can be a fantastic gift idea for autistic teens as they will love capturing 3-D images with pin art.
The WOW cup
The Wow Cup is a great stocking stuffer and practical gift for an autistic teenager. Perfect for those who are unsteady or don’t have great spatial awareness.
Liquid motion bubbler toys for autistic teens
This sensory toy helps regain calm through the soothing repetitive liquid drops falling from top to bottom. Liquid motion bubblers are great gift ideas for autistic teenagers.
Flowing sand panel
The flowing sand panel is a rotating picture frame filled with colored sand that creates unique, relaxing images whenever you flip it over. This is a calming gift idea for autistic teenagers. You can put it in your relaxing area to aid overstimulated students in relaxing.
Fidget Set
Though fidgets were all the rage, they were beneficial. Buying an entire set of fidgets offers a larger variety of toys for your autistic teenager to use.
Pressure vest
Deep pressure provides calming from anxiety and stress. There are a ton made for little kids, but some are made for adult sizes, like these weight vests by Harkla.
Music light show Dj
Music light show Dj is a perfect gift idea for autistic teenagers. The light show provides visual stimulation combined with awesome sounds.
CuberSpeed Rainbow Ball
CuberSpeed Rainbow Ball is in the shape of a ball with 12 holes and 11 colorful balls inside that you fidget to pass balls from one hole to the other. The objective is to scramble the colored balls, then figure out how to get them all back into their matching colored slots in all holes.
The puzzle ball might look simple at first, but this fun, the addictive puzzle will keep kids busy for long periods of time.
Soothing mini volcano toys for an autistic teenager
Set the bubbler down and watch as the “lava” erupts to the surface. This mini volcano bubblier is a great toy for autistic teens. It can be set perfectly on a desk with a mesmerizing volcano flow with special lighting effects.
Kanoodle
Get ready to cross-train your brain with a brand new Kanoodle game featuring over 300 puzzle challenges! Features 2-D, 3-D, and NEW sliding 2-D puzzles! From basic to truly tough, hundreds of combinations and hours of fun exist!
Original Tangle with texture
Tangle is one of the favorite fidget-style toys in our home. Twist and shape this fidget how you please, even being able to combine multiple Tangles. There are even different sizes!
Cosmic UFO
Another awesome gift idea for autistic teenagers is the Cosmic UFO projector. The UFO “windows” light up in 3 different sequences. Motion sensor triggers UFO flying sounds.
The UFO plays 2 soothing sounds (Symphony 51 and Warp Drive) and Projects a multicolored Northern Lights effect. There is a 23-minute sleep timer that automatically shuts off lights and sounds.
Soothing Vibrating Roll Pillow
For teenagers with autism, not every present has to be a toy. This Soothing Vibrating Roll pillow features comforting vibration, making it great to hold and squeeze. The pillow’s soft corduroy shell provides an interesting texture for people to rub their hands over.
Deluxe Jellyfish Lamp
Jelly Fish Tank Aquarium Mood Lamp is a perfect gift idea for autistic teenagers. Realistic life-like jellyfish models swim quietly, creating a beautiful, tranquil, peaceful, soothing, deep-sea ambiance for home or office. Immerse yourself in the peace & calm of the ocean.
Fidget roller
A lot of the fidgets on the market are geared toward little kids. Teenagers tend to want to feel more grown-up. These Metal Fidget Rollers are great gift ideas for autistic teenagers.
Penguin Popper
Penguin (and other characters) Poppers are such a blast! They are great for working on hand strength while hilarious to shoot at friends! It’s not quite a Nerf gun, but it’s just as fun!
Teen Talk
Communication is a hard thing for autistic children. Teen Talk is a great gift idea for an autistic teenager. Teen Talk in A Jar had a ton of Discussion starters and icebreakers on just about everything teens want to discuss.
Artie Max The Coding, Drawing Robot
TAKE CREATIVE CODING TO THE MAX! From simple designs to complex code creations, Artie Max translates your code into colorful works of art. Artie Max has creative possibilities with three interchangeable onboard markers, smart sensors, line detection, remote control functionality, a USB rechargeable battery, and more.
Crash Pad
By jumping into a crash pad, autistic teenagers receive a lot of sensory support that provides deep pressure from the leg and knee muscles to the joints, which is good for muscle tone and core strength.
Spinning Lollipop tree
Lollipopter magically transforms from a “swirl” to a “burst” and again in one exquisite motion with a quick twist. To transform it, spin the handle and watch the magic unfold. To change it back, spin it the other way. Intuitive, relaxing, fun…and addictive!
Silver Plasma Lightning Lamp
Another great gift for autistic children is the classic Plasma Lightning Lamp. The base produces high-frequency electromagnetic waves that cause the gases to turn into plasma.
If you touch the ball, the lightning bolts will combine into a strong beam and follow the movement of your finger. Clap your hands to it and watch the pattern in its striking pulsations.
Social Skills Comics for Teens
Social Skills Comics for Kids: Conversational Skills in School Book w/CD is a fantastic gift idea for autistic teens. These 25 comics are designed to show children the expected and unexpected ways to behave in typical school social situations.
Vibes earplugs
Vibes earplugs are perfect gifts for sound-sensitive teenagers with autism. They are made to protect your ears while being virtually invisible to anyone else. Perfect for a teen who doesn’t want bulky headphones on!
The Empathy Game
The Empathy Game is a card game that helps players recognize the importance of empathy, a central component of emotional intelligence. As children try to read other players’ nonverbal cues and guess how they’ve responded to Question Cards, they practice this skill in a fun way.
DSLR Camera
Noticing the extra details can lead to some awesome careers. Encouraging art is a great gift for a child with autism. There are all sorts of amazing cameras out there to choose from.
Another great game, This or That, is a quick, clever, get-to-know-you game that is great for starting conversations and building friendships.
Web Riderz web swing
This awesome Web Riderz web swing can hold up to 600 lbs, so it is a swing that will last quite some time!
Kanoodle Duplexity
Kanoodle Duplexity puts your brainpower to the test with 200 magnetic puzzle challenges. It includes 28 two-color magnetic pieces, 100 double-sided challenge cards, and a carrying case that doubles as a playboard. These great gift ideas for autistic teenagers build spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Heavy-Duty Enclosed Trampolines
Another great gift idea for autistic teenagers is a heavy-duty enclosed trampoline like this one from SkyWalker. Trampolines are a great resource for sensory-seeking autistic teenagers who crave proprioceptive/vestibular sensory input.
Sensory integration products and activities like trampolines help regulate their bodies to be more content, calm, focused, and ready to learn.
CamoPod
CamoPod Hanging Cocoon Chair Hammock is another great gift idea for autistic teenagers. It provides a perfect place to read, do homework, or relax to some tunes.
Sculptapalooza
Sculptapalooza is the hilariously creative, entertaining, squishy, squashy sculpting party game! Scultapalooza is a Fast-Paced family game: teams race against the clock to sculpt, guess, and win five crazy categories: sculpt with your eyes closed, sculpt a prop to act out your scene, or tag-team play in the Lightning round.
Cocoon Bean Bag Chair
Bean bags are awesome but often too small for teenagers. The Cocoon Bean Bag Chair is a perfect size! Sinking in this cozy chair can help autistic teenagers relax and relieve pressure.
Large Weighted Blanket
Weighted Blankets have insanely huge benefits for autistic teenagers. They help relieve anxiety and provide a sense of calm. You can read all about the benefits of weighted blankets here.
Slime Kits
Who doesn’t like slime? Not counting when it gets into your couch, slime is a favorite of most kids and teens. Getting your autistic teenager a slime kit will provide hours of creativity and sensory input.
Blue Tooth light spinner
Fidget spinners were a quick fad that started with real benefits. They provide sensory input along with help focusing on those with ADHD and similar diagnoses. The Bluetooth Light Up Spinners are the new version and are perfect gift ideas for autistic teenagers.
Patterned Fluorescent light filters
Patterned Fluorescent light filters reduce glare and flickering, creating a calming work environment. They attach to standard ceiling fluorescent light fixtures with super-strong, built-in magnets that keep filters in position.
Soothing sands
Something is soothing about sand running through your fingers. Kinetic sand is an awesome way to get that same sensation while molding and playing with it. There are a ton of different colors to fit any personality.
Asperger’s on the Job Book
Asperger’s on the Job is a must-have advice book for those who have autistic teenagers. Written by an accomplished young man on the spectrum, Rudy Simone, this book addresses many of the issues and challenges that those on the autism spectrum face on the job, including social blunders, sensory issues, and bullying by coworkers.
Mediterraneo Stand and Chair
This stylish and space-saving Mediterraneo hammock chair system is perfect for tight spaces. It is exceptionally durable, with a 287-pound weight-bearing capacity, and is made of rust-resistant powder-coated steel.
B-Calm Headphones
The b-Calm Headphone system differs from most noise-reduction earmuffs in that this system features comfortable headphones with audio-engineered “acoustic shield” tracks. These tracks feature designed white noise that makes typically distracting noises unnoticeable to the listener. It also features soothing nature tracks to help calm and recenter agitated special needs students.
Use them to help students block out distracting noises to help with focus or protect special needs kids from overstimulation.
Lunar Light Show
This detailed, photorealistic moon isn’t just for show– use it to make your stellar light display! The Lunar Light Show can be controlled via a remote to emit beautiful hues and blinking patterns. Place it in any room to create a beautiful display of light and color.
Buddy talk
Buddy Talk is a creative and engaging game that allows for hilarious conversations and discussions to spark with every question in seconds! Since it is small and portable (think travel-sized!), it is perfect for the on-the-go.
Calming sensory room
Creating a perfect calming space for your autistic teenager can go a long way! Though you can’t wrap it in a box, it is still a perfect gift idea for autistic teenagers.
The Autism Playbook for Teens
The mindfulness-based activities in The Autism Playbook will help teens calm their minds, relax, have fun, and build better relationships. Through systematic exercise, teens will develop their ability to concentrate, detect cues from their environment, and manage their experiences of emotions positively and proactively. Relatable stories throughout the book offer support and practical examples for teen readers.
Social Skills Bingo for Teens
Do you need a fun new activity to help the teens you work with to learn about social skills? The Social Skills Bingo Game for Teens features conversational prompts to get your students talking and learning about social attitudes and behaviors.
Magnetic Ring Fidgets
The magnetic ring fidget toy is an excellent choice for a premium present. As a pocket-size toy, your autistic teen can play with this fidget anywhere!
Wristful fidget
Your child will love wearing the Wristful fidget. It feels like a wearable bean bag. It’s filled with small pellets sewn inside stretchy spandex that’s fun to stretch and squeeze. Best of all, this item is discreet – it looks like a sports wristband!
Foot fidgets
Physical therapists design the foot fidget with years of experience supporting students with special needs. It gives your autistic teenager some discreet movement opportunities to help with attention and focus.
The Original Buddha Board
The Original Buddha Board– Fill the stand with water. Then dip in the bamboo brush (included) & start drawing, painting & writing. You’ll create soft, beautiful images with a rich, inky Japanese look. Appreciate your creation at the moment, and then, as the water evaporates and your masterpiece slowly fades away, practice the art of letting go.
Sirius Vibrating Massage Pillow
Many children with sensory difficulties love soothing vibrations. Now, you can provide this stimulation with the popular, pressure-activated Sirius Vibrating Massage Pillow! It starts vibrating as soon as you squeeze it. Children love to sit on top of the pillow, lean on it, or hug it to feel the relaxing and calming vibrations.
Abraka rings
There is just something visually mesmerizing about the Abraka Rings. Two solid metal rings appear to turn inside out, but they never flip. Reverse the direction you turn the rings, and the effect looks different.
Zen Garden
Soothing and proper tactile activity for teenagers with autism. A Zen Garden provides the perfect resource for sensory breaks. This set includes a pound of soft white sand, a wood sculpting tool, a sand roller, a stone inscribed with the Japanese symbol for “Peace,” and a bamboo tray.
The Aspie Teens Survival Guide
During the teenage years, being social is the number one priority for kids. But for kids with Asperger’s who have acute social challenges, these years can be the most difficult, confusing time.
Enter J. D. Kraus, a young man who has been there and done that! He offers practical advice to his peers to get the most out of middle and high school academically and socially. From sensory sensitivity to awkwardness, dating to driving, The Aspie Teens Survival guide tackles it all!
Playable Art ball
The Playable Art Ball is another fun gift idea for autistic teenagers. A mesmerizing sensory item that twists and moves to create various designs and shapes. This item is perfect for kids, teens, and adults who are highly visual. It is a fun, quiet activity that can be taken anywhere!
LED Fiber Optic Softie
By far the priciest gift ideas for autistic teenagers, but an amazing resource that your teen would use endlessly. The LED Fiber Optic Softie is the ultimate when it comes to sensory room accessories.
The Wipe Clean Fiber Optic Softie provides an amazing interactive sensory experience for your students with autism and sensory needs. Students will love sinking into the soft bean bag chair and interacting with the attached fiber optics.
The fiber optics are safe – no electricity flows through them. They are illuminated using light from an attached calming light source.
Personalized Krazy Straws
Personalized gifts are so hot at the moment. It is fun and inexpensive. The Krazy Namesake Straws are a fun way to tell everyone this is your drink!
Gift Ideas for Autistic Teenagers
Finding the right gift ideas for autistic teenagers may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. These specialty items and ideas can work well with autistic teenagers and are socially appropriate. During shopping, you should consider the development age of the teenager you are shopping for. Let us know which of these 75+ gift ideas for autistic teenagers was your favorite in the comments below!
https://www.exploringsilentminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Image3_3_2048x2048.webp20002000Silent Mindhttps://www.exploringsilentminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Exploring-silent-minds-color.pngSilent Mind2025-02-05 17:31:412025-02-05 17:43:06The Ultimate Gift Guide: Gift Ideas for Autistic Teenagers
This unbelievable magnetic levitation moon lamp will leave your autistic teen amazed. The 
