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How the Pandemic is Affecting Kids with Special Needs?

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  When schools shut down, and lockdowns became the “normal” around the world, it altered education opportunities for children of all ages. Most children experienced a change in routines as their daily learning shifted from classroom experiences to remote learning. While all students struggled through the changes, the most notable disruption is in the way special needs students were affected. Amplifying the Inadequacies of the System Pandemic life is stressful for all families, but the highest levels of stress are noted in families with special needs students. These children and their families depend on unique services and care to support daily needs. Not only are parents struggling with lost employment and lockdown-related challenges, but they also must supervise the child’s online school, therapies, and more. When schools closed in the spring of 2020, the federal government required schools to maintain regulations, services, and timelines within the Individuals with Disabilities E...
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What is Speech Therapy Staffing, and Why is it Important?

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  When it comes to providing quality healthcare, having adequate staffing is crucial. A case in point is speech therapy, which requires specialized training and expertise.  Here, we’ll define speech therapy staffing, explain its importance, and examine its benefits. Qualifications Required for Speech Therapists Speech therapists sometimes referred to as speech-language pathologists (SLPs), are required to have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology.  They must also hold certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and be licensed by the state in which they practice.  Specialization and experience can also play a role in determining qualifications for speech therapists. Importance of Adequate Speech Therapy Staffing Having adequate speech therapy staffing can have a significant impact on patient outcomes. Speech therapy can help patients with various conditions, including speech and language disorders, cognitive impairments, and s...
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Accommodations for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

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  Children with ASD often qualify for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a Section 504 plan.  Each of these programs promotes support for students to access their learning environment. Anyone on the IEP team can suggest accommodations: Teachers, behavior analysts,  speech-language pathologists , occupational therapists, and even parents and administrators.  Each student should have accommodations in place to best support their unique needs.  Common adaptations fall into the cognitive, sensory, behavioral, emotional, and communication domains.   Cognitive Pre-teaching.  This involves giving children a heads-up before diving into a lesson or new routine.  You can use this accommodation to pre-teach an upcoming fire drill, a new teacher joining the classroom, or novel lesson concepts. Provide short, concise directions.  Clear directions that are understandable to the student can give a child a successful start and reduce confusion. Visual...
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Location: 626 Park Ave, Cranston, RI 02910, USA
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Top 3 Things to Consider for Your CFY

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If you are searching for the right fit for your CFY program, you may be weighing some essential priorities. It is vital to choose the right practice that will guide you toward long-term success in your SLP career. This  Clinical Fellowship Year  will set the stage for how you bring in clients and foster learning in your students and patients. It’s challenging to go from being the big man on campus to the newest team member in a career. There will be times you don’t know what you’re doing, and you’ll feel confused. It happens. But when you choose a team that is standing behind you, ready to support and help you thrive, then those lost feelings will occur less and less. 3 Things to Consider Before Choosing a CFY Program As you work to complete the final steps of your Speech-Language Pathology education, choosing your Clinical Fellowship Year isn’t something to be rushed. Research each practice to find the best fit for your personality and needs. Some things to consider are: Paid...
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Location: United States
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4 Tips for Successful Online Speech Therapy

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  This past year has changed the way many educators are teaching in the classroom. Along with the conventional teacher,  Speech-Language Pathologists  have also learned to adjust to teaching online. While the change can be frustrating at times, it is a method that is convenient for many – and online speech therapy is here to stay. If you are pushing to make it through until this virtual learning period passes, it might be time for a change in mindset. The convenience that comes from setting your child up for speech therapy without getting a babysitter for other kids or sitting through traffic on the way to an appointment has value and might be the preference of some of your patients going forward. 4 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in Teaching Online Speech Therapy 1. Secure a Solid Internet Connection:  Most frustrations with online teaching have to do with technology. A reliable internet connection is essential so you aren’t distracted by technical issues dur...
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Embedded Strategies for All Students: Ideas to Implement Now

Universal strategies support learning for all students regardless of their disability status. However, systems embedded in the classroom are especially beneficial to students at risk of falling behind or receiving   special education   or related services. Providing best practices to all of your students is a win-win for general and special education staff and, of course, students. Flexible Seating Positive Reinforcement Use a Routine Check-in Provide Extra Time Heavy Work Include activities and games like wheelbarrow walking, hopscotch, four-square, climbing monkey bars, or climbing a hill. Embedded strategies aren’t just for children who receive special education or related services. Try these ideas to help all of your students be their best.
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Nonpharmacological Considerations for Managing ADHD - CBS Therapy

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  Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent disorders of childhood. The CDC estimates that between 3 and 7% of school-aged children have ADHD. Characterized by inattention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity, ADHD impacts many areas of a child’s life. This includes social participation with peers and relationships with adults, academics, executive functioning skills like organization and time management, and more. Pediatricians may recommend medication and/or a variety of non-pharmaceutical interventions. Nonpharmacological Interventions Behavior modification:  This intervention involves using behavioral strategies in everyday routines to provide structure, reward positive behavior, and communicate expectations. Examples of behavior modification may include: A token system. Use of a communication app between home and school. The use of a written or visual routine. These methods effectively improve academic and social performance and are even mo...
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Location: Rhode Island, USA
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