Honeymoon Phase Over

 

The first month of school is often a honeymoon phase for teachers and students. As many of us approach the end of the first month or even the second month of school, we may see students behavior change, our tolerance for behavior change and our relationship with our coteacher change. Here are some suggestions that may help during this transition. 

1. Collaborate and Communicate: Regular education teachers and special education teachers should establish open lines of communication from the start. Regularly meet to discuss students' individual needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Sharing insights and strategies will benefit all students in the class. Discuss how and who will be teaching lessons as you move into the next month. 

2. Continue to Get to Know Your Students:Take the time to understand each student's strengths, interests, and learning styles. Building positive relationships with students helps create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.  Try to find 1 positive thing your most challenging student did right in each class period.

3. Differentiate Instruction: In an inclusion class, students have diverse learning needs. Use differentiated instruction to cater to each student's abilities and learning preferences. Adapt materials and activities to ensure everyone can access the content. The differences or needs may show more as you encounter less review material and students see more new material. 

4. Remind of Expectations: Establish clear and consistent classroom rules and expectations. Be explicit about behavior guidelines and academic goals. This will provide a structured and safe learning environment.  I am doing this daily with students to remind them of what I expect in each situation. 

5. Use Visual Aids: Incorporate visual aids, such as charts, diagrams, and posters, to support students' understanding and engagement. Visuals can be especially helpful for students with learning differences.  If you need or want suggestions, I have been posting the visual aids I've been using with my Math students to my youtube. 

6. Encourage Peer Support: Foster a culture of inclusivity by promoting peer support and collaboration. Encourage students to help each other and work as a team. At this point, you know who works well together and who doesn't. 

7. Promote Self-Advocacy: Encourage students to advocate for themselves and express their needs. Help them develop self-advocacy skills to foster independence and confidence.