Utilising Top-Down and Bottom-Up Processing in Special Education Teaching “I can read the words, but I don’t understand what it’s saying.” This frustration, echoed by many students with learning difficulties, highlights the complex interplay between decoding text and comprehending its meaning. When working with SEN learners, understanding the intricate processes that govern learning is paramount, and the concepts of top-down and bottom-up processing have emerged as pivotal tools for educators to plan effective, personalised teaching approaches. Educators and psychologists have grappled with ho ..read more

Embracing Trauma-Informed Practice: A DSL’s Guide to Supporting Vulnerable Children and Families Trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are alarmingly prevalent, affecting millions of children worldwide. According to research, nearly two-thirds of adults have experienced at least one ACE, such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or parental substance abuse (NHS Scotland). These traumatic experiences can have profound and long-lasting effects on a child’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development, as well as their overall well-being. As a Designated Safegua ..read more

Challenging Conversations: Communication Strategies for Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) As a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in a UK school, you face numerous challenging situations that require effective communication skills. Whether it’s discussing sensitive topics with children and families, delivering difficult news, or collaborating with other professionals, navigating these conversations can be daunting. By Developing your skills of empathetic and sensitive communication, you can build trust, gather accurate information, and ultimately provide the best support for those in your c ..read more

Certified Teacher Aide vs. Teaching Assistant Teacher’s aides and teaching assistants play crucial roles in the education system, providing support to teachers and helping students succeed. In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between these two positions, as well as the qualifications and skills required for each. By understanding the distinctions between a certified teacher aide and a teaching assistant, you can make an informed decision about which path is right for you. A teacher’s aide is typically responsible for assisting the teacher in the classroom, providi ..read more

Why Black and White Images are Important for Baby Development We had several high-contrast, black-and-white books for our children, but I never really knew why these were important. In their first few weeks, a newborn’s vision is still blurry and underdeveloped. They can only see high-contrast colours and simple shapes at a close range of 8-15 inches. This is why black and white images are ideal visual stimuli for young infants. The strong contrast is easier for their eyes to detect and helps drive critical visual development. One of the most delightful ways to offer visual stimulation is thro ..read more

15 evidence-based classroom management strategies for teachers Effective classroom management is a crucial aspect of our daily practice as educators. A well-managed classroom enhances student learning and also a positive and respectful environment. This article will explore 15 evidence-based strategies teachers can implement to create a productive and harmonious learning space. These strategies are grounded in research and practical experience, providing valuable insights for novice and experienced educators. Clear Expectations and Rules Set clear behaviour and academic expectations. Collabo ..read more

Is your kid prepared for contact lenses? What’s the right age? Taking care of contacts is simpler now, with various options available. Many children can now consider wearing them. There’s no fixed age for kids and contacts; it varies based on their responsibility level and parental support. Some 8-year-olds manage well, while certain teens might not. Eye specialists usually suggest waiting until at least 12 years old due to the risks outweighing the benefits in younger kids. Benefits Contact lenses offer comprehensive vision correction, addressing issues like myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, a ..read more

As part of a neurodiverse family and working in the field of SEN (Special Educational Needs) this article – Why the Neurodiversity Movement Has Become Harmful by Moheb Costandi, a molecular and developmental neurobiologist, the author of Body Am I (2024) didn’t chime with what we believe or are trying to achieve at school. The article presents an overly reductive and dismissive view of the neurodiversity paradigm and its aims. The neurodiversity movement arose as a social justice response to the systemic marginalization and discrimination that neurodivergent individuals have faced hi ..read more

100 Examples of Non-Verbal Communication Specific Non-Verbal Behaviours (Actions) you may see Tips for Communicating with a Nonverbal Autistic Child Nonverbal Autism Effective Autism Communication Strategies 1. Join in with Non-verbal Cues 2. Imitate to Build Mutual Respect 3. Flashcards 4. Maintain Verbal Communication 5. Incorporate Sign Language or Makaton 6. Implement Communication Passports Q&A Section Q1: How can I encourage verbal communication in a non-verbal autistic child? Q2: Are there any specific techniques to enhance non-verbal communication skills? Q3: What should I ..read more

Fun and Cheap Weekend activities for autistic children Weekends offer a refreshing change of pace from the school routine. For families with autistic children, weekends are an opportunity to prioritise quality time while nurturing skills and interests and getting children/teenagers off their screens. Weekend outings and activities can be fun for the whole family. We have a range of ages in our family so wrote a post about ideas for when your children have a large age gap. I hope this post provides some ideas for occupying your Saturday and Sunday with something your child will love. Getting Ou ..read more