How to Help Struggling Students Learn

It is a new school year with lots of exciting learning opportunities for my students. After completing several weeks of assessing and observing my students’ academic strengths and challenges, I have modified my teaching strategies based on best practices for children with English acquisition, behavior, and struggling reader needs. Listed below are successful strategies I am using to support some specific learning challenges.

English Learners

English learners receive weekly academic tutoring support from staff in a school-wide pull-out program. Additionally, English learners are seated next to compassionate and supportive English-speaking classmates who can interpret and guide their English learner peers with various assignments. Creating a safe environment is critical for my non-native speakers. Sentence frames and charted models were essential for them to use before they were willing to try on their own. Native speakers learn how to become effective tutors while guiding their English learner classmates. Additionally, to encourage organic speaking opportunities in the classroom, I moved to having student-teachers. After math tests were corrected, students who demonstrated understanding of a particular math problem from the test became the teacher for that problem. Even students who needed to work 1:1 with me during the test had an opportunity to articulate how to solve the problem to their peers. It was a natural way for them to reprocess their learning, raise their social status in the classroom, and build confidence.

Overly Active and Aggressive Students

Students with an undiagnosed learning challenge that may also include hyperactive/ attention deficit disorder can be frustrated and disruptive in traditional classroom settings. Some benefit from using sensory fidget toys to relieve stress and anxiety. Other students benefit from sitting apart from their classmates. Finding the proper setting for individual students takes time and patience. I also have the students evaluate what strategies work best when separating them from their peers. After a meeting with the parent and student, together we develop a plan that involves modifying a targeted behavior, a monitoring system, and a reward chart. For example, one student is motivated to cooperate with class work by sitting alone and earning a beef jerky treat at the end of class while another works with his classmates to earn fruit clusters. Extrinsic motivation is key for these high energy students.

Fearful, Anxious, and High Functioning Autistic Learners

Some students are overwhelmed with specific assignments. When assessing their academic skills, I find that these students are capable but can become emotionally anxious or will not perform when asked to complete a rigorous academic assignment. When students are overwhelmed, I break down the assignment into smaller tasks for each student. These smaller tasks will eventually meet the requirements of a rigorous assignment. Frequent check-ins help encourage these students to move beyond their discomfort. Once many of these students get started, most are very successful and achieve beyond their anticipated abilities.

Delayed Learners

Unfortunately, some of my students do not test well and are significantly behind their grade level abilities. They have not yet qualified for special education services, but still must complete their assignments in class. Once I have identified their academic needs, I use computer adaptive online assignments for reading and math assignments. When teaching reading and math, I use small group instruction to reinforce basic reading and math skill development. I also seat learning challenged students with classmates who can help them complete grade level assignments. This year I discovered the power of personal notes. Boosting a student’s confidence in the area that you see growth helps them build self-esteem and lets them know you see them. I would attach a handwritten note to important assignments letting them know how hard they tried, commenting on an area of strength, and then letting them know where they could grow. A delayed learner needs their teacher to be their biggest cheerleader because the struggle can be overwhelming.

Overall Classroom Success that Supports Cooperation at Home

When I am responsive to the individual needs of each of student, they feel validated, respected, and work harder to achieve success. As a class, we set milestone achievement celebrations that might include a tech play day, pajama and cuddly critter day, and a pizza movie day. As a class, we evaluate our class performance each day and earn points towards participating in these larger classroom celebration days.

The strategies we use in class also work effectively at home for most students. Wishing you much success in supporting your child’s learning this school year.

Beyond Backpacks: Setting Up for School Success (Part 2)

As summer starts to wrap up and the back-to-school excitement kicks in, most of us are thinking about new backpacks, fresh school supplies, and meeting this year’s teacher. Those things matter—but there’s something even more important that often gets missed: executive function skills. These behind-the-scenes brain skills are what really help kids start the year strong, no matter what grade they’re in. In my last blog, I described how parents can help their children establish routines, get organized, and make time tangible. This blog explains how parents can help their children become more flexible, manage impulses, and develop a working memory.

Flexible Thinking & Problem Solving: Embracing the Unexpected

School life rarely goes exactly as planned. Cultivating flexible thinking helps children adapt.

• Brainstorming Solutions: When a problem arises (“I forgot my lunch!”, “I don’t understand this math problem!”), resist the urge to immediately solve it for them. Instead, ask, “What are some ways we could solve this?” or “What’s your plan B?”
• Role-Playing Scenarios: Practice different social situations or academic challenges through role-playing. “What would you do if you finished your work early?” or “How would you ask for help if you’re stuck?”
• Emphasize Learning from Mistakes: Reframe mistakes as opportunities for growth. “That didn’t work out as you planned. What did you learn from it? What could you try differently next time?”

Sustained Attention & Impulse Control: Fostering Focus

In an increasingly distracting world, the ability to focus is paramount.

• Minimize Distractions: During homework time, create a low-distraction environment. Turn off TVs, put away phones, and limit background noise.
• “First/Then” Statements: For younger children, “First, finish your reading, then you can have screen time.” This helps them understand expectations and build perseverance.
• Mindfulness Exercises: Simple mindfulness activities (like focusing on breath for a minute or doing a quick body scan) can help children learn to regulate their attention and emotions.
• Delayed Gratification: Practice waiting for desired outcomes. This could be waiting for dessert or saving up for a toy. These small acts build impulse control over time.

Working Memory: Remembering and Applying Information

Working memory is about holding information in mind to use it for a task.

• Active Recall: Instead of just re-reading notes, encourage your child to explain concepts in their own words or quiz them on material.
• Visual Aids: Use graphic organizers, mind maps, or drawings to help children visualize and connect information.
• Break Down Instructions: Give instructions in smaller chunks. For multi-step directions, have your child repeat them back to you to ensure understanding.
• Games that Boost Memory: Incorporate games like “Simon Says,” “Memory,” or “I Spy” to playfully strengthen working memory.

Remember, building executive function skills isn’t a one-and-done deal—it’s a journey that grows over time with practice and patience. Involve your child in the process whenever you can. Let them help craft their routines, test out different ways to stay organized, and come up with creative solutions when things don’t go as planned. When kids feel ownership, they’re far more likely to stick with the strategies that work for them.

These skills aren’t just for school—they’re for life. By starting now, you’re giving your child a head start on navigating challenges, staying focused, and becoming a confident, independent problem-solver in an ever-changing world. So here’s to progress, partnership, and a fantastic school year ahead!

Summer Learning for Kids!

The sun is shining, the days are longer, and summer adventures are calling! While this season brings plenty of excitement for families, it can also stir up a familiar concern for many parents: the “summer slide.” You’ve probably heard the term—it refers to the learning loss that can happen over the extended school break. But what if we looked at it from a different angle? Instead of viewing summer as a setback, we can embrace it as a valuable opportunity—a chance to spark curiosity, encourage growth, and nurture a love of learning, all while still soaking up the joy and freedom that summer brings.

The key is to shift our perspective from academic drills to engaging, experiential learning. Summer is a time for exploration, and learning can be seamlessly woven into almost any activity.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Nature offers an incredible playground for learning. A trip to the local park isn’t just about swinging; it’s a chance to observe insects, identify trees, or even calculate the trajectory of a frisbee. A hike can become a lesson in local plants and animals, navigation, or simply the joy of discovery.

• Become Backyard Biologists: Invest in a magnifying glass and a simple bug identification book. Encourage your child to observe the creatures in your garden or a nearby park.
• Stargazing Scientists: On a clear night, spread a blanket and look up! Download a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets. Talk about the vastness of space and the wonders of the universe.
• Nature Journaling: Encourage your child to draw or write about what they see and experience in nature. This fosters observation skills and creative expression.

Turn Everyday Activities into Learning Adventures

Learning doesn’t have to be done during the school year. Many daily routines provide opportunities to build skills that children need throughout life.

• Kitchen Chemistry: Cooking and baking are fantastic ways to practice math (measuring, fractions), reading (recipes), and even science (chemical reactions!). Let your child help plan a meal, follow the recipe, and discuss the changes they observe.
• Financial Literacy Fun: Give your child a small allowance for chores and encourage them to save for a desired item. Take them grocery shopping and let them help compare prices and calculate the best deals.
• Board Game Brain Boosts: Many classic board games are stealthily educational. Chess and checkers enhance strategic thinking, while Scrabble boosts vocabulary and spelling. Even simple card games can improve number recognition and basic math skills.

Nourish a Love for Reading (Without Making It a Chore)

The summer slide often impacts reading skills. The goal isn’t to force reading, but to make it an enjoyable and natural part of their day.

• Library Explorers: Regular trips to the library are a must! Let your child choose books that genuinely interest them, regardless of genre or perceived academic level. Many libraries have summer reading programs with fun incentives.
• Audiobook Adventures: For reluctant readers or during long car rides, audiobooks are a fantastic option. They expose children to new vocabulary and storytelling, keeping their minds engaged.
• Reading Nooks: Create a cozy and inviting reading space at home or outside, complete with blankets, pillows, and a stack of appealing books.

Remember Fun Is Key

Summer is a precious time for children to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. By thoughtfully integrating learning into their joyful experiences, we can turn the “summer slide” into a launching pad for new interests, stronger skills, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them. So, embrace the sunshine, unleash your creativity, and make this summer an unforgettable season of growth and laughter!

Celebrating Our Child’s Learning

It’s funny once you hit Spring Break blink and it is summer break. Where did the year go? How was the year? Before rushing into vacation mode, here are a couple of things you can do to make sure the year ends on a good note and set up our children for success next year.

Celebrate Growth—Big and Small

One of the best ways to wrap up the school year is by celebrating your child’s growth. This doesn’t mean just focusing on report cards—progress is about so much more than grades! Think about all the ways your child has grown, whether it’s mastering new sight words, improving their social skills, becoming more independent, or developing a better attitude toward learning.

How You Can Celebrate:

• Make a “Proud of You” List: Sit down together and list five things your child accomplished this year, big or small.
• Create a Memory Box: Save special schoolwork, drawings, or projects in a box to look back on.
• Write a Letter to Your Child: Tell them what you’ve noticed about their hard work and growth this year.

Taking time to acknowledge progress boosts your child’s confidence and helps them see that learning is about the journey, not just the destination.

Keep Communication Open with the Teacher

If you have any lingering concerns about your child’s progress, now is the time to connect with their teacher. Most teachers are happy to offer insights and suggestions to help your child continue growing over the summer.

What to Ask:

• What progress has my child made this year?
• What areas should we focus on over the summer?
• Do you have any recommendations for summer learning activities?

If your child has an IEP or receives special education services, ask about any progress toward their goals and what skills they’ll be working on next year.

If Your Child Struggled Academically: Be Proactive

If your child had a tough time this year, don’t panic! The end of the school year is a great time to put together a plan so they don’t feel overwhelmed when school starts again.

Steps You Can Take:

• Request a Meeting or Updated Progress Report: If you’re concerned about academics, ask for an update on your child’s progress so you have a clear picture of where they stand.
• Consider Summer Tutoring or Learning Support: A little extra help over the summer can make a big difference. Look into tutoring services, online programs, or even summer school options.
• Make Learning Fun at Home: Find ways to sneak in learning through fun activities like reading together, playing math games, or exploring educational apps.

Keep a Routine Going

Summer break often means a big shift in routine, which can be challenging for some kids—especially those who thrive on structure. Keeping a loose but predictable routine can make the transition smoother and help prevent a back-to-school slump.

Simple Ways to Keep a Routine:

• Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Try to keep wake-up and bedtime within an hour of the school-year schedule.
• Set Aside Time for Learning: Even 15-30 minutes a day of reading, writing, or problem-solving can help keep skills sharp.
• Plan for Social Interaction: If your child struggles with social skills, set up playdates or group activities to keep practicing those skills.

Get Ready for Next Year

As summer winds down, start preparing for the next school year early to reduce stress for both you and your child.

Things You Can Do:

• Talk About Next Year Positively: Even if your child struggled this year, frame next year as a fresh start with new opportunities.
• Visit the School If Possible: If your child is transitioning to a new teacher, classroom, or school, see if you can visit before the year starts.
• Organize School Supplies Together: Let your child help pick out supplies and set up their backpack. This builds excitement and gives them a sense of control.

The end of the school year is a time for reflection, celebration, and planning. Whether your child had a great year or a challenging one, they’ve grown in ways you may not even realize. By keeping communication open, maintaining some structure, and being proactive about academic concerns, you can help your child finish strong and start the next year with confidence.

Most importantly, enjoy the summer together—learning happens in everyday moments, whether you’re reading a book before bed, cooking together, or exploring the outdoors.

Embracing Spring Rain: Strategies to Get Kids Outdoors

For my 40th birthday, I was surprised with a trip to Vancouver. As I packed my bags, I was told to bring rain gear—there was no way my family was going to let me stay inside just because of a little rain. I was there to explore, not to hide indoors. The same is true for kids in the spring. Just because it’s rainy or chilly doesn’t mean outdoor play has to stop!

Everyone needs outdoor time, no matter the forecast. In many schools, rainy days mean canceled recess, and that lack of movement can lead to restlessness and frustration. Getting outside, even in less-than-ideal weather, helps with attention, sensory processing, and emotional regulation.

The truth is, outdoor play is just as important in spring as in any other season. Movement helps kids regulate their bodies, develop motor skills, and improve focus. Plus, time spent in nature is proven to reduce stress and boost mood.

Why Outdoor Play Matters in the Spring

1. Supports Physical Health

Jumping in puddles, running through wet grass, and climbing damp playground equipment all help kids build strength, balance, and coordination. Exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep cycles and provides a much-needed vitamin D boost after winter.

2. Helps with Emotional Regulation

Many children, especially those with ADHD, sensory processing challenges, or anxiety, benefit from movement. Physical activity releases dopamine and serotonin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals, which can help kids feel calmer and more focused.

3. Reduces Screen Time

With unpredictable spring weather, it’s tempting to stay indoors with screens. While technology has its place, too much screen time can lead to increased irritability, poor sleep, and reduced physical activity. Getting outside—even in the rain—provides a much-needed break.

4. Encourages Creativity and Problem-Solving

Rain and mud offer new ways to play—from making mud pies to floating homemade boats in puddles. Outdoor play challenges kids to think creatively, explore textures, and engage in unstructured, imaginative activities.

Strategies to Get Outside and Enjoy Rainy Spring Days

1. Dress for Success: Waterproof Layers are Key

The biggest barrier to outdoor play in the rain is often being wet and cold. The right clothing makes all the difference. Use a layering strategy to stay dry and warm:

• Base layer: Moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic fabrics to keep skin dry
• Middle layer: Fleece or a lightweight sweater for warmth
• Outer layer: A waterproof, wind-resistant raincoat and rain pants
• Accessories: Waterproof boots, rain gloves, and a hat with a brim to keep raindrops out of eyes

2. Make Outdoor Time a Game

If kids are reluctant to go outside, turn it into an adventure. Fun spring outdoor activities:

• Puddle Jumping Contest: See who can make the biggest splash.
• Rainy Day Scavenger Hunt: Look for worms, raindrops on leaves, or reflections in puddles.
• Floating Boat Race: Make small boats from leaves, bark, or paper and race them down a stream or puddle.
• Mud Kitchen Play: Let kids mix mud, sticks, and leaves to create “recipes.”

3. Create a Routine for Outdoor Play

When outdoor time becomes a daily habit, kids adjust to it—even in the rain. Ways to build a routine:

• Morning Movement: A short walk before school can help wake up the brain.
• After-School Play: Instead of heading straight for screens, spend 20–30 minutes outside first.
• Weekend Adventures: Plan a family outing to a park, even if the weather is damp.

4. Find Rain-Friendly Destinations

Sometimes a change of scenery makes all the difference. Great places to visit in the rain:

• Nature trails: Many parks remain accessible and offer beautiful rainy-day scenery.
• Creeks and streams: Spring rain fills creeks and is perfect for floating sticks and boats.
• Botanical gardens: Some have covered areas for rainy-day exploring.
• Outdoor markets: Farmers’ markets still run in light rain, and kids can help pick out seasonal produce.

5. Get Involved in Spring Sports

If your child struggles with free play, structured activities may help. Popular rainy-day outdoor activities:

• Soccer: Wet grass makes for fun sliding kicks.
• Hiking: Trails are peaceful after a rain shower, and the smells of wet earth and blooming flowers can be soothing.
• Cycling: A light drizzle won’t stop the fun, and kids love riding through puddles.
• Fishing: Rainy days often mean better fishing conditions.

6. Use Sensory-Friendly Strategies

Some kids, especially those with sensory sensitivities, find rain overwhelming. The feel of wet clothes, the sound of raindrops, and the smell of damp earth can lead to sensory overload. Ways to help include:

• Let kids play with water indoors first (e.g., with a water table or sink play) before venturing outside.
• Choose soft, tagless clothing to prevent irritation.
• Offer waterproof gloves for kids who dislike the feel of wet hands.
• Use noise-canceling headphones for kids sensitive to the sound of rain.

7. Incorporate Warm-Up Breaks

Cold, wet play doesn’t have to mean staying outside for hours. Make sure kids stay comfortable. Ideas for warm-up breaks:

• Drink hot cocoa or warm tea inside after playing.
• Set a timer for 20-30 minutes outside, then take a short indoor break.
• Create a “warm-up station” with blankets and cozy socks.

8. Make It a Family Activity

Kids are more likely to embrace rainy-day play if parents participate. Ways to make it fun for the whole family:

• Plan a rainy-day nature walk and listen for different sounds of water.
• Take turns choosing outdoor activities for each outing.
• Start a spring tradition, like an annual “Puddle Walk.”

Bringing the Outdoors Inside. On days when it’s just too stormy to go out, bring nature inside. Indoor nature activities include:

• Rain Painting: Let raindrops mix with watercolor paints on paper.
• Indoor Planting: Start a small herb garden in pots near a window.
• Sensory Bins: Fill a bin with damp soil, rocks, or pinecones for a nature-inspired sensory experience.

Spring rain doesn’t have to mean staying inside! With the right gear, creative activities, and a bit of planning, kids can enjoy fresh air, movement, and outdoor fun—even on drizzly days. By embracing outdoor play, you can set an example, help kids build resilience, burn energy, and develop a love for nature in all seasons.