It goes without saying, this pandemic is not only affecting our students academically, but socially and emotionally. As a teacher of students with special needs, I have really been working hard to repair the traumas my students have faced during these challenging times in both school and at home.
At the Pre-K level, we spend A LOT of time learning through play. The students thrive off of real, tactile experiences. My project consists of a variety of items to enhance student learning based off of their needs and interests. Our current classroom kitchen is cracked, falling apart and really old. Despite its condition, this was the absolute FAVORITE free play item in the room. Not only did it allow students to build their imagination through role-play, it engaged students in social interaction and communication. A common set-back for students during this pandemic (especially for my class) was the ability to communicate and socialize appropriately in a group setting. This common interest in a choice of play, was a big asset in bringing the class together to develop similar goals. I have also included sensory toys to support sensory needs in new students who are already diagnosed ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).
Little by little we are working to make a comeback from this pandemic. These materials in my project will make a huge difference in my classroom to not only engage kiddos, but to accomplish their goals and make learning fun. I am thrilled to be able to bring my students back to an environment they trust to allow them to learn, grow and have fun.
About my class
It goes without saying, this pandemic is not only affecting our students academically, but socially and emotionally. As a teacher of students with special needs, I have really been working hard to repair the traumas my students have faced during these challenging times in both school and at home.
At the Pre-K level, we spend A LOT of time learning through play. The students thrive off of real, tactile experiences. My project consists of a variety of items to enhance student learning based off of their needs and interests. Our current classroom kitchen is cracked, falling apart and really old. Despite its condition, this was the absolute FAVORITE free play item in the room. Not only did it allow students to build their imagination through role-play, it engaged students in social interaction and communication. A common set-back for students during this pandemic (especially for my class) was the ability to communicate and socialize appropriately in a group setting. This common interest in a choice of play, was a big asset in bringing the class together to develop similar goals. I have also included sensory toys to support sensory needs in new students who are already diagnosed ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).
Little by little we are working to make a comeback from this pandemic. These materials in my project will make a huge difference in my classroom to not only engage kiddos, but to accomplish their goals and make learning fun. I am thrilled to be able to bring my students back to an environment they trust to allow them to learn, grow and have fun.
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