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.

Summer Boundaries for Kids!

It is summer and children are filled with enthusiasm and passion for adventure and wanting to try new experiences. Many parents struggle with how to keep their children healthy and happy during long summer days. Some families schedule many summertime activities and camps for their children. Others reinforce a more relaxed lifestyle with some special family planned activities and lots of free time for exploring. Some children are busy with sports activities while others spend endless hours playing online games and watching television. Summarized below are five considerations for family fun with a balance of structure and free play activities.

Keeping Balance in Daily Life

It is difficult to balance each child’s daily schedule when planning camps, sports activities, and family play. Some children thrive with lots of scheduled activities while others are overwhelmed and need lots of free time to relax and decompress from daily life. When our kids are overscheduled or bored, they fight more and are more anxious about daily life. Identifying an appropriate balance of activities for each child’s temperament and personality can be challenging for parents. Some helpful strategies include:

• Help each child identify 1 to 3 activities for summer play and make a plan to complete each activity.
• Adjust the daily schedule when activities are exhausting to allow time to relax and rest.
• Keep family life simple and relaxed during days of busy schedules.

Reinforcing Healthy Growth and Behaviors

During the summer parents can help their children develop healthy growth and behaviors by setting limits and consequences for positive behaviors and misbehaviors. For example, parents and their children can create a list of healthy behaviors that can be rewarded weekly with a special activity. Another list can be created for identifying misbehaviors that can result in timeouts or the loss of a daily privilege. For example, if a child acts aggressively towards his siblings, he may lose his screen time privilege for a day. The consequences for positive and negative behaviors should be reinforced by both parents to be fully effective and rewarding.

Maintaining Adult Supervision with Daily Adventures

Summertime offers abundant opportunities for children to explore nature with their family. Although children will not be formally learning academic subjects, many family outings can include science discovery and historical site visits. Camping, hiking, picnics, beach days, and visiting local and national parks offer extraordinary opportunities for children to learn more about their communities. When older children venture out into their communities to meet up with friends, it is important to have them check in with parents and caregivers on a predetermined schedule to ensure they are O.K. It is important for parents and caregivers to be accountable to their children as they begin to explore their neighborhood and community. Parents and caregivers’ responsible actions and availability can encourage children’s healthy development and confident independence.

Managing Screen Time and Summer Learning Opportunities

Children need a healthy mix of outside play, exploration, and learning throughout the summer. Learning should be fun and can include learning new hobbies, art projects, sports, academic subjects, and visiting family historical sites. These activities provide opportunities for reading and applying mathematical concepts. One child may create a vending machine mockup toy while another may create a masterful watercolor. Other children may spend their time practicing a sport, planning the family vacation, or learning how to cook a meal. Screen time can be educational but must be limited to ensure the children live balanced and engaging lives with their families and friends.

Honoring Sleep Schedules and Bedtimes

Many children’s sleep schedules are very relaxed during the summer. Some kids will stay up most of the night playing on phones or laptops. It is important to set a healthy sleep schedule for all family members to ensure that all can function in a productive way throughout the day. The added benefit is that children are more rested to tolerate stress and conflicts with parents, siblings, and friends. Additionally, children are able to adjust easily to getting up early for the new school year in the next few weeks. For example, we have our children leave their electronics charging in the kitchen at night after we go to bed to ensure none of us are interrupted from a restful sleep.

May the last weeks of summer be filled with wonderful memories of new adventures, play, and loving relationships with family and friends.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Focusing on Your Child’s Learning Progress and Not Perfection

“Take pride in how far you’ve come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don’t forget the journey.” by Michael Josephson

We knew the school year would end when the year started, but never realized how fast it would come. It’s hard to stop, step back, and just look at how far we’ve come. The mountains we have climbed or the forever-long valleys that we thought would never end, but we did it.  We all did hard things. We grew.

As a special education teacher, I’ve had the privilege of watching hundreds of students grow academically, socially, emotionally, and personally. Some students leap ahead quickly, others take smaller steps, and a few struggle quietly in the shadows. But one thing I’ve learned is this: progress looks different for every child, and it all matters. Every small victory, no matter how tiny it may seem, deserves to be celebrated at the end of the year or whenever they happen.

As parents, getting caught up in benchmarks, grades, comparisons, or even the long road ahead is easy. We worry if our child is reading at grade level, keeping up in math, or getting along with others. We scroll through social media and see other kids’ achievements and start wondering, “Are we doing enough? Is my child falling even further behind with everything we’re doing?” But I want to remind you: Your child’s journey is their own. And every bit of progress counts.

Why Focusing on Progress Matters

Children are not machines—they don’t develop at the same pace or in the same way. Some kids take off in reading in kindergarten, while others might not find their rhythm until second or third grade. Some struggle with reading or math for years, then suddenly it comes together. The path isn’t linear. It’s full of dips, turns, plateaus, and bursts.

When we celebrate only the big moments—the awards, the perfect test scores, the standout performances—we unintentionally send a message that only perfection is worthy of praise. But when we recognize the small wins—completing a book, staying focused for 10 minutes, asking for help, using kind words—we help our children build confidence and resilience.

Progress is what leads to success. And acknowledging it fuels motivation.

What Small Victories Look Like

Small victories aren’t always flashy. They often happen quietly, in moments you might miss if you aren’t watching closely. Here are just a few examples I’ve seen:

• A student who used to avoid reading time finally picks a book on their own
• A child who struggles with handwriting writes a whole sentence without giving up
• A student with anxiety raises their hand to answer a question in front of the class
• A child who’s been impulsive takes a deep breath and uses a strategy to stay calm
• A third grader remembers their math facts with just a little less prompting

These are real, meaningful steps forward. They’re often the result of hard work, perseverance, and support—both at school and at home. And they’re worth celebrating. And perhaps a very loud cheerleader in your corner, never giving up and always moving the needle forward no matter the time of year.

Shifting the Focus at Home

So, how can you, as a parent, help your child focus on progress rather than perfection? Here are a few ideas that come straight from my experience in the classroom and conversations with other families:

1. Notice the Effort: Instead of asking, “Did you get 100%?” try asking, “What did you learn today?” or “What felt easier than it used to?” Celebrate the effort your child puts into their work, even if the result isn’t perfect. Praise things like persistence, creativity, courage, and problem-solving.
2. “Last Day” Shout-Out: Take a picture of your child holding a sign that celebrates a specific win (“I mastered my multiplication facts!” or “I learned to ask for help when I need it!”).
3. Special Treat or Activity: Let them pick a fun, low-cost way to celebrate: a walk to the park, popsicles after dinner, or staying up 15 minutes later.
4. Create a Victory Journal or Jar: Start a family habit of writing down “wins” in a notebook or dropping notes in a jar. They can be school-related or personal: “I stood up for a friend today.” “I tried broccoli again.” “I spelled ‘because’ right without looking.” Review these wins regularly. They become a tangible reminder of growth.
5. Reframe Comparison: When your child says, “Everyone else is better than me,” gently remind them that every learner is on their own path. You can say, “Let’s talk about how far you’ve come,” and point to specific examples. Try using “then and now” language: “You used to need help to read that page. Now you can do it on your own!”

A Word of Encouragement

If your child is struggling, whether it’s with schoolwork, behavior, or friendships, please know this: their struggles do not define them. They are growing every day in ways that may not show up on a report card. And you, as their parent, are making a difference, just by cheering them on.

You don’t need to wait for perfect moments to celebrate your child. Celebrate when they keep trying. Celebrate when they show kindness. Celebrate when they bounce back from disappointment and when they take those first steps down the stairs on their own. These are the victories that shape character and build lifelong learners.

End of the School Year Growth Reflections

As we wrap up the school year, it’s the perfect time to reflect not only on report card grades but also on the many layers of growth that might not show up in traditional ways. Whether your child is in kindergarten or high school, every grade level presents unique challenges, and every child makes progress in their own time. Maybe your first grader finally mastered those tricky sight words, or your middle schooler became more independent with homework. Maybe your high schooler stepped up with better time management, stronger self-advocacy or learned how to cook. These are the wins that build confidence and maturity, and they deserve recognition just as much as academic scores.

For families of students with IEPs, this time of year can bring both pride and questions. You may be reviewing progress reports and wondering how your child did on their goals. While some IEP goals may be fully met, others might still be in progress, and that’s okay. IEPs are living documents meant to grow with your child. Progress on goals, even if it’s not complete, often reflects significant growth: increased independence, improved focus, or stronger communication skills. When you look at the progress, try to see the full picture of effort, support, and resilience. Celebrate what your child has accomplished—and know that every step forward, no matter how small, is a step toward greater success next year.

Tell Students How Much They Have Accomplished

In my classroom, I make it a point to recognize progress out loud. I say things like, “I know that was hard for you. I love how you persevered through it.” I invite you to do the same at home.

Ultimately, education is a marathon, not a sprint. By shifting our focus from the idea of perfection to the tangible reality of progress, we empower our children and uplift ourselves. Let’s choose to see the beauty in each small victory, for it is in these moments that we truly see the strength, resilience, and spirit of our children.

Education is about celebrating the little things as we climb the mountain to graduation. Celebrate every tiny victory. Those things matter.

As the year comes to a close, from learning to walk up or down the stairs to taking the first steps to learning to read or making it to all your classes to graduate–those little things matter. What can you help your child celebrate?

Helping Kids with ADHD Focus: Classroom and Home Strategies

As a special education teacher, I’m frequently asked to observe students who appear to be distracted. As teachers, we can’t diagnose but we can find ways to support students who struggle in the classroom, regardless if it’s ADHD.

Today’s classrooms are not what many think, learning is hard and standards must be met, so students spend more time sitting than moving around. Students’ minds move fast, their energy levels fluctuate, and traditional learning environments don’t always meet their needs. Parents often ask, “How can I help my child focus better?”

Understanding ADHD in the Classroom

Children with ADHD often experience:

• Difficulty maintaining attention (especially on non-preferred tasks)
• Impulsivity (blurting out answers, interrupting, acting before thinking)
• Hyperactivity (constant movement, fidgeting, trouble staying seated)
• Executive functioning struggles (organizing materials, following multi-step directions, remembering assignments)

It is important to note that the term “ADD” changed to “Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder” (ADHD) in 2013 with the release of the DSM-52. The official change in terminology occurred with the publication of the DSM-IV in 1994.

What can teachers do within their classrooms?

1. Provide Movement Breaks

Sitting still for long periods is difficult for students with ADHD. Movement can help them focus.

• Allow short brain breaks (e.g., stretching, jumping jacks) between activities.
• Use alternative seating options like standing desks, wobble stools, or yoga balls.
• Let students move while they learn, such as walking while reading or using hand motions for new concepts.

2. Offer Flexible Seating and Workspaces

Some students focus better in quiet spaces, while others do better with background noise.

What Teachers Can Do:

• Create a variety of seating options—quiet corners, floor cushions, or desks with dividers.
• Allow students to choose where they work best for certain tasks.
• Use noise-canceling headphones for students who are easily distracted by sound.

3. Break Down Tasks into Small Steps

Many students with ADHD struggle with multi-step directions.

What Teachers Can Do:

• Give one instruction at a time instead of a long list.
• Use visual checklists to help students stay on track.
• Offer frequent feedback to keep them engaged and motivated.

4. Use Visual and Hands-On Learning Tools

What Teachers Can Do:

• Use graphic organizers to help with writing and reading comprehension.
• Incorporate hands-on activities (e.g., manipulatives in math, science experiments, or interactive notebooks).
• Use color-coding to help with organization (e.g., different colors for subjects or materials).

5. Build Predictable Routines

Changes in routine can be difficult for students with ADHD.

What Teachers Can Do:

• Establish clear daily schedules with visual schedules or timers.
• Give transition warnings before switching activities.
• Maintain consistent classroom rules and expectations.

6. Provide Positive Reinforcement

Students with ADHD often receive negative feedback for their behavior, which can lower self-esteem.

What Teachers Can Do:

• Use praise and rewards for effort, not just accuracy.
• Create a positive behavior system (e.g., sticker charts, token rewards).
• Focus on strengths, such as creativity, problem-solving, and enthusiasm.

7. Allow for Fidget Tools

Fidgeting is a way students with ADHD self-regulate and stay engaged.

What Teachers Can Do:

• Provide fidget tools like stress balls, putty, or small hand-held items.
• Allow doodling or note-taking during lessons to help with focus.
• Set clear rules for using fidgets appropriately (e.g., not distracting others).

What can parents do?

1. Establish a Structured Homework Routine

Homework can feel overwhelming for kids with ADHD, but structure helps.

Tips for Parents:

• Set up a consistent workspace that is quiet and free from distractions.
• Use a visual schedule to outline tasks and break them into small steps.
• Incorporate movement breaks (e.g., 5 minutes of jumping or stretching between assignments).

2. Use Timers and Alarms

Students with ADHD often lose track of time, so timers help them stay on task.

Tips for Parents:

• Use a visual timer (like a Time Timer) to show how much time is left for a task.
• Set a “beat the timer” challenge for short tasks to make it more engaging.
• Try the Pomodoro technique (25-minute work periods followed by 5-minute breaks).

3. Reduce Clutter and Improve Organization

Disorganization makes focusing even harder for students with ADHD.

Tips for Parents:

• Use color-coded folders for different subjects.
• Create a designated homework station with necessary supplies.
• Help your child clean their backpack weekly to prevent lost assignments.

4. Encourage Physical Activity

Exercise helps regulate dopamine levels, improving focus and impulse control.

Tips for Parents:

• Let your child run or play outside before starting homework.
• Consider sports, martial arts, or activities like yoga that improve focus.
• Use active learning strategies (e.g., bouncing a ball while spelling words).

5. Implement a Reward System

Positive reinforcement can help kids stay motivated.

Tips for Parents:

• Use a simple point system (e.g., earning stars for completed tasks).
• Allow your child to “cash in” points for small rewards (e.g., extra screen time, a special outing).
• Praise effort over results to build confidence.

6. Teach Self-Regulation Strategies

Kids with ADHD benefit from learning how to manage their emotions and energy levels.

Tips for Parents:

• Teach deep breathing and mindfulness exercises.
• Use calm-down corners with sensory tools like weighted blankets or stress balls.
• Help them identify what strategies work best for them (e.g., chewing gum, listening to music).

7. Work with the School

Communication between home and school is key to helping students with ADHD succeed.

Tips for Parents:

• Regularly check in with teachers about what’s working and what’s not.
• Advocate for an IEP or 504 Plan if your child needs accommodations.
• Keep track of patterns and triggers that may be impacting your child’s focus.

Kids with ADHD are not lazy, unmotivated, or “bad” students. They simply need the right strategies and support to reach their potential. By making small adjustments—both in the classroom and at home—we can help them develop focus, confidence, and a love for learning.

 

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.