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.

Strategies to Help Your Child Love School Again (Part 2)

My previous blog post on Why Your Child Hates School explains reasons for a student’s frustrations with school and how parents can support their struggling child. Here are solutions to Help Your Child Love School Again:

1. Advocate for Your Child

Your child needs you to be their voice, especially when they feel unheard or misunderstood. Work closely with teachers, counselors, and administrators to ensure they receive the support they need.

• Request meetings if you notice ongoing struggles.
• Ask about support services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling.
• Work with the school to develop an IEP or 504 Plan if your child qualifies for accommodations.

2. Focus on Strengths and Interests

Every child has strengths and interests that can help them reconnect with learning.

• Find ways to incorporate their passions into their education.
• Encourage them to join clubs, extracurricular activities, or special programs that align with their interests.
• Praise effort and progress rather than just grades.

3. Create a Safe Space at Home

Home should be a place of comfort and safety where your child can decompress.

• Provide opportunities for downtime and relaxation after school.
• Encourage open conversations where your child feels safe sharing their feelings.
• Validate their emotions—“I hear that school is tough for you right now. Let’s work together to make it better.”

4. Teach Self-Advocacy Skills

Empower your child to express their needs and seek support when necessary.

• Teach them how to ask for help from a teacher.
• Encourage them to recognize what strategies work best for them (e.g., using fidgets, taking breaks).
• Help them practice self-regulation and coping skills.

5. Normalize Differences and Challenges

Whether your child is neurotypical or neurodivergent, they need to know that struggles with school do not define them.

• Teach them that everyone has strengths and challenges.
• Encourage a growth mindset—challenges help us grow and learn.
• Remind them that their worth is not tied to grades or performance.

Final Thoughts: Turning Struggle into Success

If your child hates school, it’s important to listen, validate, and take action. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but by identifying the root cause and implementing targeted strategies, you can help your child feel more confident, supported, and engaged in their education.

Remember, school should not be a place of dread—it should be a place of discovery. With the right support, advocacy, and encouragement, your child can rediscover their love for learning.

If you have concerns about your child’s school experience, reach out to their teachers, special education team, or school counselors. You are not alone in this journey, and together, we can make school a place where all children feel seen, heard, and valued.

 

Why Your Child Hates School (Part 1)

As a special education teacher, I’ve worked with students across the spectrum—both neurotypical and neurodivergent—who struggle with school. I see the frustration on their faces, the reluctance in their steps, and the exhaustion in their voices when they tell their parents, “I hate school.”

If your child has ever said these words, you’re not alone. Many parents hear this, and their immediate reaction is concern, frustration, or helplessness. Why does your child feel this way? Is it something specific, or is it just a phase? And most importantly—what can you do about it?

Why Kids Hate School: The Common Reasons

1. It’s Too Hard (or Too Easy)

For many students, schoolwork is either too challenging or not challenging enough.

• A child who struggles academically may feel frustrated and defeated, dreading school because it reminds them of their difficulties.
• A child who finds the work too easy may feel bored and disengaged, leading to a lack of motivation and even behavior issues.

For Neurodivergent Students: Many neurodivergent students, especially those with learning disabilities, ADHD, or autism, may struggle with processing speed, working memory, or attention, making learning feel overwhelming. Others, particularly gifted students, may feel unchallenged and unmotivated.

What Parents Can Do:

• If your child finds school too difficult, work with their teacher to explore accommodations, interventions, or additional support. A 504 Plan or IEP (Individualized Education Plan) may be necessary.
• If your child is bored, speak with the school about enrichment opportunities, acceleration, or more challenging assignments.
• Provide opportunities at home for problem-solving, creativity, and hands-on learning to keep their mind engaged.

2. Social Struggles and Peer Relationships

Friendships and social dynamics play a huge role in a child’s experience at school. If your child is struggling socially, school can feel like an emotionally exhausting place.

• They may feel lonely or left out.
• They may experience bullying or exclusion.
• They may have trouble understanding social cues or forming friendships.

For Neurodivergent Students: Many neurodivergent children struggle with social communication and may find it difficult to navigate friendships. Sensory sensitivities, misunderstandings, or rigid thinking patterns can also make social interactions stressful.

What Parents Can Do:

• Encourage social skills practice through role-playing, books, or structured social activities.
• Reach out to teachers or school counselors for support in fostering positive peer interactions.
• Connect your child with clubs, hobbies, or activities where they can meet like-minded peers.

3. Sensory Overload and Anxiety

For some children, especially those with sensory processing differences or anxiety, the school environment itself can be overwhelming.

• Bright lights, loud noises, crowded hallways, and strong smells can make school an overstimulating place.
• Unstructured times like recess, lunch, and transitions can be particularly challenging.
• Anxiety about grades, expectations, or social interactions can make school feel unsafe.

For Neurodivergent Students: Sensory sensitivities are common among autistic students, students with ADHD, and those with sensory processing disorder. A child may become dysregulated or shut down due to overwhelming stimuli.

What Parents Can Do:

• Work with the school to implement sensory-friendly strategies such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, or a quiet space for breaks.
• Teach self-regulation strategies like deep breathing, grounding techniques, or movement breaks.
• Talk with the teacher about creating a predictable routine to reduce anxiety.

4. Lack of Connection to Teachers or School Staff

Children need to feel connected to at least one caring adult at school. If they feel unseen, misunderstood, or unsupported, school can become a place of disconnection rather than belonging.

For Neurodivergent Students: Some neurodivergent students struggle with feeling misunderstood by their teachers. They may need alternative communication methods or additional patience from staff.

What Parents Can Do:

• Communicate with teachers about your child’s needs, interests, and strengths to build a positive relationship.
• Encourage your child to find a trusted adult at school, whether it’s a teacher, counselor, or support staff member.
• If possible, request a mentor or check-in system to provide additional emotional support.

5. Homework Battles and Academic Pressure

Many children feel overwhelmed by the amount of homework or pressure to perform well in school. This can create stress and lead to avoidance behaviors.

For Neurodivergent Students: Homework can be especially difficult for students with executive functioning challenges, making it hard to initiate, organize, or complete tasks independently.

What Parents Can Do:

• Set up a consistent, distraction-free homework routine with built-in breaks.
• Focus on effort rather than perfection, and advocate for modified assignments if needed.
• Teach executive functioning strategies such as checklists, timers, and visual schedules.

Strategies to Help Your Child Love School Again

Now that we’ve explored why school may be a struggle, let’s focus on solutions.

1. Advocate for Your Child

Your child needs you to be their voice, especially when they feel unheard or misunderstood. Work closely with teachers, counselors, and administrators to ensure they receive the support they need.

• Request meetings if you notice ongoing struggles.
• Ask about support services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling.
• Work with the school to develop an IEP or 504 Plan if your child qualifies for accommodations.

2. Focus on Strengths and Interests

Every child has strengths and interests that can help them reconnect with learning.

• Find ways to incorporate their passions into their education.
• Encourage them to join clubs, extracurricular activities, or special programs that align with their interests.
• Praise effort and progress rather than just grades.

3. Create a Safe Space at Home

Home should be a place of comfort and safety where your child can decompress.

• Provide opportunities for downtime and relaxation after school.
• Encourage open conversations where your child feels safe sharing their feelings.
• Validate their emotions—“I hear that school is tough for you right now. Let’s work together to make it better.”

4. Teach Self-Advocacy Skills

Empower your child to express their needs and seek support when necessary.

• Teach them how to ask for help from a teacher.
• Encourage them to recognize what strategies work best for them (e.g., using fidgets, taking breaks).
• Help them practice self-regulation and coping skills.

5. Normalize Differences and Challenges

Whether your child is neurotypical or neurodivergent, they need to know that struggles with school do not define them.

• Teach them that everyone has strengths and challenges.
• Encourage a growth mindset—challenges help us grow and learn.
• Remind them that their worth is not tied to grades or performance.

Final Thoughts: Turning Struggle into Success

If your child hates school, it’s important to listen, validate, and take action. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but by identifying the root cause and implementing targeted strategies, you can help your child feel more confident, supported, and engaged in their education.

Remember, school should not be a place of dread—it should be a place of discovery. With the right support, advocacy, and encouragement, your child can rediscover their love for learning.

If you have concerns about your child’s school experience, reach out to their teachers, special education team, or school counselors. You are not alone in this journey, and together, we can make school a place where all children feel seen, heard, and valued.

My next blog post will focus on strategies to help your child love school again.

 

Classroom Differentiated Instruction is Critical for Student Success

Differentiation is a term that has gained significant traction in educational circles over the years and for a good reason. As classrooms become increasingly diverse, teachers are continually challenged to meet the unique needs of each student. Differentiation is an instructional approach that addresses these needs, aiming to ensure that all students have equitable access to learning.

What is Differentiation?

Differentiation refers to tailoring instruction to meet the individual needs of students. It is a pedagogical strategy that involves adjusting the content, process, product, or learning environment to accommodate students’ different learning styles, interests, and abilities within a classroom. Carol Ann Tomlinson describes differentiation as a way of thinking about teaching and learning that honors individual students’ needs and maximizes their learning potential.

At its core, differentiation recognizes that students learn in different ways and at different paces. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching is ineffective in helping students master grade-level standards. Instead, differentiation encourages teachers to be responsive to students’ varying readiness levels, learning profiles, and interests by offering multiple avenues for acquiring content, engaging in the learning process, and demonstrating understanding.

The Key Components of Differentiation

The four key components to help teachers differentiate their lesson plans include:

Content involves what students learn. Differentiating content means providing students with different resources or adjusting the complexity of the material based on their readiness levels. For instance, while all students might be working towards the same learning goal, some might need more foundational work, while others may be ready for more advanced concepts.

Process is how students make sense of the content. Differentiation in the process could involve using various instructional strategies, such as cooperative learning, tiered activities, or inquiry-based learning, to help students explore the content in a way that suits their learning styles.

Product refers to how students demonstrate their understanding of the content. Differentiating products means giving students various ways to show what they have learned. For example, one student might write an essay, another might create a video presentation, and yet another might build a model or create a piece of art.

Learning Environment is the overall climate in which learning takes place. A differentiated learning environment is flexible, supportive, and inclusive, offering spaces that cater to the varying needs of students, whether they require a quiet corner for independent work or a collaborative space for group activities.

Why Differentiation is Important

Addressing Diverse Learning Needs

One of the most compelling reasons for differentiation is the diversity of learners in today’s classrooms. Students come from various cultural backgrounds, have different levels of prior knowledge, and exhibit a range of learning preferences and abilities. A standardized approach to teaching overlooks these differences, potentially leaving some students behind while others are not sufficiently challenged. Differentiation ensures that every student receives instruction that is appropriate for their needs, promoting better engagement and understanding.

Promoting Equity and Inclusion

Differentiation plays a critical role in promoting equity in education. It acknowledges that not all students start at the same place and that some may require additional support or alternative pathways to achieve the same learning outcomes. By adjusting instruction to meet individual needs, differentiation helps to level the playing field, providing all students with an opportunity to succeed. This is particularly important for students with learning disabilities, English language learners, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Enhancing Student Motivation and Engagement

When students are provided with learning experiences that are tailored to their interests and abilities, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. Differentiation allows teachers to tap into students’ passions and strengths, making learning more relevant and enjoyable. This not only enhances their motivation to learn but also fosters a deeper connection to the material, leading to improved academic outcomes.

Supporting Growth and Development

Differentiation is not just about helping struggling students; it’s also about challenging advanced learners. By offering more complex tasks or opportunities for independent study, differentiation ensures that every student is pushed to grow and develop their skills. This approach helps to nurture a growth mindset, where students see challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement.

Preparing Students for the Future

In a world that increasingly values creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, differentiation helps students develop these essential skills. By providing varied learning experiences and encouraging students to take ownership of their learning, differentiation fosters independence, adaptability, and resilience. These are qualities that will serve students well beyond the classroom, preparing them for future challenges in higher education and the workforce.

How You Can Implement Differentiation in the Classroom

Know Your Students

The foundation of differentiation is knowing your students well. This includes understanding their academic readiness, interests, and learning profiles. Use assessments, observations, and student surveys to gather this information and use it to guide your instructional decisions.

Start Small

Differentiation can feel overwhelming at first, so start with one aspect of your instruction, such as differentiating the content or process. Gradually expand your efforts as you become more comfortable with the approach.

Use Flexible Grouping

Group students in different ways based on the task at hand. Sometimes, group them by readiness level, other times by interest or learning style. This flexibility ensures that students work with a variety of peers and are challenged in different ways.

Offer Choices

Give students options in how they learn and how they demonstrate their understanding. This could be as simple as offering a choice of books to read or more complex, such as allowing students to choose between a written report, a multimedia presentation, or a creative project.

Incorporate Technology

Technology offers a wealth of resources for differentiation. Online tools and apps can provide personalized learning experiences, adaptive assessments, and opportunities for students to explore content at their own pace.

Reflect and Adjust

Differentiation is an ongoing process. Regularly reflect on what’s working and what’s not, and be willing to adjust your approach based on your student’s needs and feedback.

Differentiation is more than just a teaching strategy; it’s a philosophy that places students at the center of the learning process. By acknowledging and addressing the diverse needs of students, differentiation creates a more inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environment. It challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all education and instead promotes equity, growth, and a love for learning in all students. In today’s classrooms, where diversity is the norm, differentiation is not just important—it’s essential. By committing to differentiation, educators can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.

What is Response to Intervention Education?

If you look inside any general education classroom, chances are good that you’d see different students struggling for different reasons. It can be hard for a teacher to tell right away which students are struggling or why. Simply put, Response to Intervention (RTI) is a framework for implementing proactive data-driven decision-making. It provides teachers with better, more timely information about students to improve student learning and performance.

An Effective Prevention Model

RTI is not just a model for special education classrooms. It is increasingly an early identification and prevention model that helps schools and districts nationwide broaden the range of interventions available in general education. RTI also ensures that the curriculum truly meets the needs of all students. With the appropriate processes in place, RTI can help schools identify students at risk for poor learning outcomes. It monitors their progress and provides evidence‐based interventions early on – when students first exhibit signs of learning problems. The nature and intensity of such interventions can be continually adjusted depending on each student’s responsiveness.

Teachers Provide the Interventions

Teachers can provide targeted teaching — called interventions — to help struggling students catch up. A big part of the RTI process involves closely monitoring student progress—that way the school can see which students need more academic support. RTI isn’t a specific program or type of teaching. It’s a proactive approach. RTI measures students’ skills and uses this data to decide which interventions to use.

Response to Intervention Components

Below are key components of RTI.

• Early Identification of Learning Issues: RTI helps in the early identification of students who may be facing academic challenges. By monitoring students’ progress regularly, educators can identify difficulties and intervene promptly, preventing further academic setbacks.
• Individualized Support: RTI emphasizes providing individualized support based on a student’s specific needs. This tailored approach allows educators to address the unique learning styles and requirements of each child, helping them progress at their own pace.
• Prevention of Academic Failure: The primary goal of RTI is to prevent academic failure. By intervening early and providing targeted support, educators can help students catch up to their peers, reducing the likelihood of long-term academic struggles.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: RTI relies on data and ongoing assessment to guide instructional decisions. This data-driven approach allows educators to make informed choices about the most effective interventions for each student, ensuring that efforts are targeted and efficient.
• Collaboration between Teachers and Parents: RTI promotes collaboration between teachers and parents. Parents are integral members of the intervention team and are kept informed about their child’s progress, the interventions being used, and how they can support their child at home.
• Inclusive Education: RTI fosters an inclusive education environment by recognizing and addressing diverse learning needs. It helps create a supportive atmosphere where all students, regardless of their initial skill levels, have the opportunity to succeed.
• Reducing Special Education Referrals: RTI can help reduce the number of unnecessary referrals to special education by providing early and targeted interventions. This ensures that students receive appropriate support within the general education setting, reducing the need for more restrictive environments.

Student Achievement Data Produces Results!

In many states, RTI or intervention data is needed as part of the body of evidence to qualify for special education services as a student with a learning disability. Many states also have READ plans to support students reading below grade level. RTI ensures teachers are completing interventions and using the data to close reading gaps. If you don’t know if your child is receiving classroom-based interventions, ask your teacher. The teacher can also provide you with your child’s supporting achievement data.