tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31573306910068692972024-03-13T04:27:01.963-05:00All Y'all NeedWe are ALL Y'all Need - Amy, Laura, and Lisa! We are two sisters and a cousin, an elementary librarian, an SLP, and a PK teacher. Education is our "family business!" We love to share fun ideas for literacy, communication, and lifelong learning. Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.comBlogger698125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-71923469886917785072019-09-01T22:08:00.001-05:002019-09-01T22:16:03.424-05:00Stop Searching for BalanceLet me give you some advice about achieving balance. <b>Stop. </b>Seriously, this is the best professional wisdom I can give you. It's free, no prep, and it will make your life so much better.<br />
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Around this time of year, back to school, I see a lot of posts on social media asking how to balance work and life. I don't see a lot of real answers. There are the usual eat right, exercise, meditate, self-care comments. Those people mean well. And those are good things to do in our lives.<br />
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<b>Here's the real answer - stop searching for balance.</b><br />
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I'm not kidding.<br />
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I mean, I can barely physically balance my toppling paperwork pile, much less my life. Once I stopped trying to achieve balance, I focused on priorities and responsibilities. That sounds really boring. But it's why I get paid, and it's part of adulting. My days aren't balanced between work and family and healthy habits. They are organized by priority.<br />
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Here are 3 reasons to change your perspective about searching for balance.<br />
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1) Life happens</h3>
Carefully balancing a day doesn't allow for life, you know that unpredictable thing where safety drills interrupt therapy, my personal kids get sick, or my car breaks down on the way to work. I know. I used to craft my days minute by minute. Anything that threw off my carefully planned and balanced day threw me off. When a student bolted, when I got 5 referrals in one day, when my computer showed The Blue Screen of Death, that planned balance was gone. All I wanted to do was veg on the couch (does anyone say that anymore?) and stuff my face in a half-gallon of Blue Bell's chocolate-chip cookie dough ice cream.<br />
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Now if I get thrown off, I can still hit the must-dos and priorities. I don't have to worry that my timeline for the day goes out the window. There are days when I spend longer than 8 hours working or when some of my personal ventures and hobbies don't get touched for weeks. It's okay. Remember, I'm not searching for balance. I'm getting what I have to do done, and I will get to what I want to do. Just maybe not today or this week or month.<br />
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2) The pressure of social media</h3>
I'm mostly an empty nester with a super supportive husband. I realize I may be in a different life stage than some of you. To those of you who have young kids now, you have it tougher than I did. Social media used to be fun. Pinterest didn't come around until my kids were in middle and high school.<br />
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The pressure has been upped.<br />
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The first time I saw a Pinterest picture about a mom who blocked her kids' doorways with balloons and streamers on their birthdays so that they could burst out in celebration made me want to crawl back in bed under the covers. Guess what? I've asked my grown kids, and they both said they feel loved and don't feel slighted that their birthdays didn't go viral.<br />
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Remember that what you see on social media is what the poster <i>wants</i> you to see. Maybe those streamers fell down three times before staying up for the picture, or maybe the tape used to attach them peeled off some paint.Maybe the post is sponsored by a party supplier. The social media world is not your real world.<br />
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3) You really don't want balance</h3>
Think back to summer - how many times did you see posts complaining about too much pool time or wondering about balance? Zero. Not once over summer break did I think, "I'm not working enough. How do I get back into balance? Maybe I should build some time into my summer schedule for work."<br />
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We think we want balance when we are doing things we don't like. For me, and probably for a lot of you, that's paperwork. That is not why I became an SLP. Staring the pile and lists only makes me anxious and turns me into an even bigger procrastinator than I usually am. I break the pile down into - what do I have to do today? Crossing off the list or crumpling a sticky note with an accomplished task makes me giddy. So I focus on that feeling.<br />
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You know what balance is? Guilt. Straight-up pile-it-on-ourselves guilt that we aren't spending time with our families or that we drive through McDonald's instead of grilling chicken and steaming broccoli or that we played Uno in therapy instead of making that elaborate lesson our well-meaning non-SLP friend shared with us on social media. No one needs more guilt in their lives. Give yourself grace.<br />
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Stop trying to achieve balance. Do your job. Address your must-dos and priorities. At the end of the day, ask yourself, "Did I do the best today with what I know?" If it's yes, that's great. If it's no, decide what you want to change. Don't dwell. Move forward.<br />
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Wanna come back to this post? Pin it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39JAKOhS6qODyALQdYni0sEMKp1gEC0H2aEfYhBHaSceZakcOWO2oAJXcF6NxQcTlBrVLJPlQYdQeeDCm_QrtigdUPnXgQIh9G8QTFTNa6_sx8hi2IwxR0jb9-DnJMcc0X8wgqCh7XAnC/s1600/eat+better.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="SLPs often feel stressed, and searching for work life balance doesn't help. Here are three 3 reasons to stop trying to achieve balance and still get the job done!" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39JAKOhS6qODyALQdYni0sEMKp1gEC0H2aEfYhBHaSceZakcOWO2oAJXcF6NxQcTlBrVLJPlQYdQeeDCm_QrtigdUPnXgQIh9G8QTFTNa6_sx8hi2IwxR0jb9-DnJMcc0X8wgqCh7XAnC/s320/eat+better.png" title="3 reasons to stop searching for balance" width="213" /></a></div>
<a data-formkit-toggle="b36f7d4deb" href="https://white-tree-8502.ck.page/b36f7d4deb">Click HERE for a free game!</a>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-9177893735589612622019-07-23T14:56:00.002-05:002019-07-23T14:56:32.994-05:00Teacher PD on a Cruise?!? Yes, Please!When people find out we went on the first teacher PD cruise, their eyes widen, and they ask, "Was it as fabulous as it sounds?" And yes, it was!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teachyourheartoutcon.com/" target="_blank">Teach Your Heart Out</a> had the brilliant idea of putting professional learning on a cruise. Lisa (PK teacher) and I (Laura, SLP) attended. <i>Disclaimer: TYHO paid for our cruise and registration. Opinions in the post are our own.</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura and Lisa</td></tr>
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From the night before we left, we were reconnecting and making new friends. It's so important to have good support in the educational field!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqSfvtaap81nIw8mZLiLlbfPWcymt_tqX_MSanknFNCGinhQ1b_VLxX2EtbrOHYqkCJIQ47DHTxZnb92dU-7C_gFPnRAhHDFAx-K3V0yQIZpaHJiqrDutIHVdbe722GkQa-W3Oyvfignf/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-07-23+at+11.34.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="524" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqSfvtaap81nIw8mZLiLlbfPWcymt_tqX_MSanknFNCGinhQ1b_VLxX2EtbrOHYqkCJIQ47DHTxZnb92dU-7C_gFPnRAhHDFAx-K3V0yQIZpaHJiqrDutIHVdbe722GkQa-W3Oyvfignf/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-07-23+at+11.34.53+AM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura, Stacy from <a href="http://www.simpsonsuperstars.com/" target="_blank">Simpson's Superstars</a>, Chad from <a href="http://malekindergartenteacher.com/" target="_blank">Male Kindergarten Teacher</a>, and Lisa<br />
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The PD day included fabulous sessions from <a href="http://teaching3rdwithmrg.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Teaching with Mr. G</a>, <a href="https://teachoutsidethebox.com/" target="_blank">Brooke Brown</a>, <a href="https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/contributors/bloggers/lindsey-petlak/" target="_blank">Lindsey Petlak</a>, and more. <a href="http://www.applesandabcs.com/" target="_blank">Michelle Griffo</a> from Apples and ABCs offered fantastic classroom management ideas and centers with a Target twist. Lindsey Petlak taught us about fabulous apps and ideas for classroom math blocks. Of course, we found some time to sneak to CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island!<br />
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Mr. G had great tips on using books. Brooke Brown's knowledge of STEM has prompted me to think of how to use those activities in speech therapy. Previously, I had thought of STEM as a totally separate field. Now, I'm thinking STEM activities will engage and promote language in my students!</div>
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The most meaningful part for me was the trip to the Bahamas. We got to go to a school. It's very much away from where tourists go. It was humbling to see the living conditions and inspiring to see the dedication the staff puts into their work. I learned that there is only one speech therapist there. She works in a government building, and the students are transported from their schools to therapy. The waiting list can be up to two years! So different.</div>
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We all donated school supplies. It was so moving, and the principal was so grateful. And to top it off, Gerry Brooks closed the PD with a reminder to laugh, enjoy the adventure, and Teach Your Heart Out!</div>
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The highlights: the people,</div>
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friends</div>
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the PD</div>
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the school visit</div>
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Gerry Brooks</div>
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the adult swimming deck</div>
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the food and our waiter</div>
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being "unplugged"</div>
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watching "Captain Marvel" in deck chairs with a nice breeze<br />
karaoke </div>
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watching a singing competition where the "loser" prize was a highlighter. The game show hostess was stumped when everyone wanted a highlighter. Apparently, it's a joke prize among regular cruisers but a hot commodity in the teacher cruiser world!</div>
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What to be aware of: While it was nice to not be chained to my phone, I would spring for the Internet package next time. Some of the sessions and locations were changed.</div>
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Interested? TYHO is already planning a cruise for 2021! Find out more <a href="https://thewrightstuffchics.com/products/save-my-spot-teach-your-heart-out-cruise?_pos=1&_sid=878a5cad7&_ss=r" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-72339501401889515192019-01-05T21:41:00.000-06:002019-01-05T21:41:22.388-06:00Special Needs Ministry: PlayingA big part of my church's special-needs ministry is playing. Playing may not sound like Sunday School, and it took a while for me to come around to the idea. I have 5 tips for playing while serving, plus a free game for you, so keep reading.<br />
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Kids with special needs have a <i>lot</i> of demands put on them. Many of our children go from working on IEP goals at school to learning chores at home to following directions in different therapies... you get the idea. Or maybe you live the life.<br />
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And boy, did I feel pressure when I started volunteering. Ever read James 3:1? "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness." <i>Gulp. </i>God is going to call me to this ministry - and judge me <i>harder</i>?<br />
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So I started thinking about what I knew and grew up with - song time, craft time, Bible story time, Bible verse memory time. And quite honestly, it overwhelmed me. Around that time, our church started a major remodel, and His Kids, our special-needs ministry, moved temporarily to a portable where those activities were not practical to carry out. God used that time to teach me new ways to minister through play.<br />
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Here are 5 things I've learned about playing:<br />
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#1 - Ministry is not therapy.</h3>
I work in the schools, and I run on IEPs and data collection and planning speech/language therapy activities. My counselor husband advised me to just enjoy the kids. How could I do that when I needed to get them to understand Bible truths? Luckily, my husband is a wonderful role model, and as I watched him and the other volunteers, I saw that...<br />
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#2 - Relationships are more important than knowing all the facts of Bible stories.</h3>
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Somewhere, a few of my former Sunday School teachers just gasped. When you have volunteers living out God's Word, kids learn what love and kindness and patience are. The children are going to start recognizing the volunteers and wanting to see them. Then parents can head to worship knowing their child is happy and taken care of. </div>
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#3 - Incorporate Bible stories into activities.</h3>
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We don't skip Bible stories. There is a definite lesson time for about 10 minutes. For the rest of the time, we just present the stories differently. Our volunteers have used a child's interest in dinosaurs to act out the story of Daniel in the lions' den with plastic T-rexes, named train cars after the disciples, and built doll houses while naming the figures after characters from the story of the prodigal son.</div>
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One of our kids gets up on Sunday morning asking for his favorite cars in the His Kids room. We pull out those cars and name them "Ruth" and "Naomi" while pretending that the car track is the road that Ruth and Naomi traveled together. Pretending affords numerous opportunities to say, "Where you go, I will go" - just like Ruth said to Naomi in the Bible!</div>
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The best activities come from building and knocking down, whether it's Legos, blocks, or giant foam tower shapes. We have seen a lot of response to building Jericho, an ark, castles for kings, and many more. Tip: emphasize that God destroyed Jericho, not humans, but let the kids knock down the structure. Just trust me on that one.</div>
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Kinetic sand is another activity that leads to a lot of interaction. We can put Joseph in the well or Daniel in the lions' den or push the sand to the sides of the box to part the Red Sea.</div>
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#5 - Focus on Bible truths.</h3>
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When I think of the story of Noah, I can make a lot of associations - Noah was a righteous man, there was a flood, the size of the ark is incomprehensible to me, when I see a rainbow, it's God's promise, and I could go on. </div>
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When I say "Noah" in His Kids, I don't know what the children are thinking. What I want them to know is that Noah obeyed God and that we should obey God. </div>
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Whatever you teach as the Bible truth for a lesson, repeat it to the children over and over and over. In fact, when you see your family and friends after serving in special-needs ministry and they say, "How are you?", you should respond with "Noah obeyed God and we should obey God" because you've said it so many times while serving. (I talk more about the importance of repetition in <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2018/08/special-needs-ministry-teaching-story.html#more" target="_blank">this post</a>.)</div>
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Bonus</h3>
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I have a free game for you that's been a hit with many of our children. It's called <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RmUvbqEnxWK1H4xwjjgkTR_WJJAwp2h2/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Bible Ball</a>. We have a small basketball goal that attracts many of our boys. I got <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001YWWWWC/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001YWWWWC&linkId=7c70c109c37f9f868cfb28b08a99ff96" target="_blank">a colorful ball</a> from Amazon (affiliate link). We toss the ball. When a child or adult catches the ball, they look at the color their thumb is on and answer the question with the same color to earn the corresponding points. Then, they get to shoot the ball into the basket.</div>
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You get to decide how to play. It could be that points are only earned if baskets are made, that points are earned for answers or efforts, that you play a toss-and-catch game instead of basketball... just do what suits the children in your ministry.</div>
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The only rule is - always let the children win! If you have more than one child, it can be one adult vs. the children. If an adult is way ahead in points, offer an amazing number of points, like 5,000, if the child can answer a question. Or take away points from the adult if the adult misses the basket. </div>
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Be sure to check out our other posts about special-needs ministry:<br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2018/07/special-needs-ministry-4-lessons-ive.html#more" target="_blank">4 Lessons I've Learned</a><br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2018/08/special-needs-ministry-teaching-story.html" target="_blank">Teaching the Story</a><br />
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And if you don't have time to download the game now, or you want to come back to this post, just pin this image for later!<br />
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-27946502761008799812018-12-19T15:24:00.000-06:002018-12-19T15:24:52.179-06:00Christmas Books That Never Go Out of StyleI never get tired of reading the following Christmas books. I shared new titles that I added to my library last. But these titles are some of my favorites from Christmas past. And there is no such thing as too many Christmas books. Since these books are not the newest titles, you can find most in your school and public libraries.<br />
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<u>Silver Packages: An Appalachian Christmas Story</u></div>
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by Cynthia Rylant</div>
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A Christmas train travels through the Appalachia Mountains each year on December 23. A rich man tosses presents from the train to the children who wait for the train on the special day each year. More than once, I have cried while reading this beautiful story.</div>
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<u>Santa Calls</u> by William Joyce</div>
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Since it is set in Abilene, Texas, this holiday book is a must read for all Texans. But anyone who is a fan of Christmas adventures will love this book. Children Art, Esther and Spaulding are invited to the North Pole by Santa himself because he needs their help. This captivating story never ages.</div>
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<u>Too Many Tamales </u></div>
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by Gary Soto</div>
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First off, who can possibly resist tamales at Christmas? The strong traditions of Maria's family are front and center in this book. All is going well, until Mama's beautiful diamond ring goes missing. The solution of eating the tamales to find the missing ring sounds like a good idea at the time to Maria and the kids in her family. Warning: you may crave tamales after eating this book.</div>
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<u>Tree of Cranes</u> by Allen Say</div>
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The beauty that Say is able to create with his words and illustrations is flawless in this book. No matter who I read the book to, their reaction is all the same. Two thumbs-up from students on the story of a young Japanese boy who experiences unconditional love. As a follow-up, students love learning to make their own origami paper cranes.</div>
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<u>Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer</u></div>
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The story of Rudolph is perfectly accompanied by Caparo's illustrations. There is just something magical about a red-nosed reindeer coming to Santa's rescue and flying the skies on Christmas Eve.</div>
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<u>How the Reindeer Got Their Antlers</u></div>
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by Gerald McCaughrean</div>
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illustrated by Heather Holland</div>
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Because the reindeer is ashamed of her "ugly crown" she retreats to the North for thousands of years. But the reindeer prove to be quite helpful to a man with a red suit and white beard. </div>
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<u>The Christmas Wish</u></div>
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by Lori Evert</div>
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photographs by Per Breiehagen</div>
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Little Anja's greatest wish was to be a Christmas elf. Anja's journey is photographed for children to experience the magic of Christmas.</div>
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<u>Welcome Comfort</u> by Patricia Polacco</div>
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It is my belief that Patricia Polacco simply cannot write a bad book. Her rich background of storytelling is alive and well in this holiday title. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkD6haaIw9Apcpau-1Xlnm5_tu0r4HkzPd2lpi76lKCpXUSVSv7Ty01p3FKUrZhlcgkHgKQBbNM7FaOQDPaJ5FvbBMzqif7ykqB2fM4xohyzyZnOz5mTBvdaz9i44oR2UvUkB8WNkr7Dlz/s1600/51JSpoWbdyL._SX495_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="497" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkD6haaIw9Apcpau-1Xlnm5_tu0r4HkzPd2lpi76lKCpXUSVSv7Ty01p3FKUrZhlcgkHgKQBbNM7FaOQDPaJ5FvbBMzqif7ykqB2fM4xohyzyZnOz5mTBvdaz9i44oR2UvUkB8WNkr7Dlz/s200/51JSpoWbdyL._SX495_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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<u>Bear Noel</u> by Olivier Dunrea</div>
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When winter arrives, the animals begin looking for Bear Noel who always shows up in time for Christmas. Animal fans will love the gorgeous illustrations of the woodland animals.</div>
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Hope you enjoyed this look at some wonderful Christmas books!</div>
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14880566999510076915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-801121412705223632018-12-04T07:15:00.000-06:002018-12-04T07:15:02.086-06:00December and January Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi, it's Amy. I am sharing some of my new read-aloud books for the library during the month of December. Naturally, I have my favorite books that I love to read each and every year. So to mix it up, I like to add some recently published titles to my library. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5cWSYnuzHCA0XThUtorWWPkaISW9Czj_3QqkBUpsBysN377OPWKehmxhfNVYEVNlwUY_SmvoIx9_IVPhWe3qnyGSVjcqobSv4x41cC2pzPWiCCfQPplIsgU6MUk-ve3egDu26lQ2dzRG/s1600/Summer+Tutoring+Program.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="New books you'll want on your Christmas list!" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5cWSYnuzHCA0XThUtorWWPkaISW9Czj_3QqkBUpsBysN377OPWKehmxhfNVYEVNlwUY_SmvoIx9_IVPhWe3qnyGSVjcqobSv4x41cC2pzPWiCCfQPplIsgU6MUk-ve3egDu26lQ2dzRG/s320/Summer+Tutoring+Program.png" title="A librarian's recommendations for the best books for Christmas and winter." width="213" /></a></div>
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I hope y'all enjoy the crazy, wonderful times that December brings!</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you buy, we may get a small commission at no cost to you.</span></i></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">First up, </span><u style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399170731/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0399170731&linkId=b19ebd7e3d3d276d342e9b7be19caab5" target="_blank">The Snowy Nap</a></u><span style="text-align: center;"> is the magnificent Jan Brett's newest title! Hedgie the adorable hedgehog returns for a stunning new book. This book is perfect for those who prefer a more winter-focused title, rather than full-out Christmas story. Little Hedgie does not want to nap through winter this year missing the snowflakes, frozen lakes, icicles and snowmen. Be sure to read with Brett's companion, </span><u style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399231013/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0399231013&linkId=af32bead9b7d04dd4e00f67c5e1fad9b" target="_blank">The Hat</a></u><span style="text-align: center;"> for all things Hedgie!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwY4sQPKqAOOca2FWrXOHpWLj5Q1xBC5yMZyNjgWewQ7npHgeCH7pafWIyk10ZWGskOVoWyPChX_pHzCvXgGX9lbAZ8FTWv7Ioxoq2oVxSKMW6EXtXaz93o4JT4PxPmEIxeoKjnNpZsQo/s1600/61tfG0I77bL._SX401_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="403" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwY4sQPKqAOOca2FWrXOHpWLj5Q1xBC5yMZyNjgWewQ7npHgeCH7pafWIyk10ZWGskOVoWyPChX_pHzCvXgGX9lbAZ8FTWv7Ioxoq2oVxSKMW6EXtXaz93o4JT4PxPmEIxeoKjnNpZsQo/s200/61tfG0I77bL._SX401_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
Let's get sparkly with <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374308136/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0374308136&linkId=aee4e3f8c16d9141492b6c25e65bb44d" target="_blank">A Unicorn Named Sparkle's First Christmas</a></u> by Amy Young. It is not Sparkle's fault that he would rather play than shop for Lucy's Christmas present. I mean, he <i>is</i> a unicorn! Find out what happens when Lucy purchases unicorn horn polish, a box of rainbow ribbon candy, and a stuffed unicorn for her best friend. And Sparkle does not purchase anything on Lucy's long list of suggested gifts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4zK2gzeFpUXHAwmiKm15vsbLp5C-HzBxtxItmlB8K8ha6oCbsHlewRGwnyVdS7Ss3icY3VwtdWHZabBudnrjmdshchwqrp8UckIlx1m8yQwCoGN2eTMGZ5SnRBkWf05FTE6cC3NdTtL6/s1600/61w7TWnaZdL._SY498_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4zK2gzeFpUXHAwmiKm15vsbLp5C-HzBxtxItmlB8K8ha6oCbsHlewRGwnyVdS7Ss3icY3VwtdWHZabBudnrjmdshchwqrp8UckIlx1m8yQwCoGN2eTMGZ5SnRBkWf05FTE6cC3NdTtL6/s200/61w7TWnaZdL._SY498_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I have a gorgeous book for those who are looking for a wordless book. If you love using <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394839730/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0394839730&linkId=270ab80769cc4f999f40351222f923ea" target="_blank">The Snowman</a></u> by Raymond Briggs to teach storytelling, try Richard Johnson's <u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/057133928X/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=057133928X&linkId=6a0554ef44a376d5921e03025f92162b" target="_blank">Once Upon a Snowstorm</a></u> this year. A father and son live in the woods and become separated from each other as they walk in a winter snowstorm. The woodland animals quickly accept and care for the boy. Animal lovers will love this 2018 publication.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZXwig3Aubbqe2nNJclekSTczlOvpgQrKcEvACliLTDaOriGTOqH7xP6gKUC8yg99NQqXa5d6FwD8x6bxXZ-m2gI83CNzpA5FFqhpHbbRjm02o5T-v_j8XZ-gnzh95KGD7vicUCQzpnr3/s1600/51Z9ZxPfY9L._SX398_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZXwig3Aubbqe2nNJclekSTczlOvpgQrKcEvACliLTDaOriGTOqH7xP6gKUC8yg99NQqXa5d6FwD8x6bxXZ-m2gI83CNzpA5FFqhpHbbRjm02o5T-v_j8XZ-gnzh95KGD7vicUCQzpnr3/s200/51Z9ZxPfY9L._SX398_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<u style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1984203207/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1984203207&linkId=e17b2e90b7fc45ac1fe973be02c6c540" target="_blank">Elfie the Elf</a></u><span style="text-align: center;"> by Cheryl DeVleeschouwer is a such a cute book. A grandmother tells her grandchildren the "secret" story that she has never told anyone about when she was a little girl. A lost blue elf needs her help to be reunited with Santa himself.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8xkHH3dObk61VJwLQFZa7N50NWl1gxDGmy8VRFW3DMLw83UH2X-Fz4UwbF5lJFM5FM81Yipm0bMgKToYReM22NweGOWXyFwXOPNPeIG_nn1e4DeWyYwgB7bOC0VhYyf_gvGVim4yYOSD/s1600/81QnMTdCbCL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1360" data-original-width="1360" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8xkHH3dObk61VJwLQFZa7N50NWl1gxDGmy8VRFW3DMLw83UH2X-Fz4UwbF5lJFM5FM81Yipm0bMgKToYReM22NweGOWXyFwXOPNPeIG_nn1e4DeWyYwgB7bOC0VhYyf_gvGVim4yYOSD/s200/81QnMTdCbCL.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0998536261/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0998536261&linkId=8f0e9eb00c18df131136ba1f6d8886b4" target="_blank">Zetta the Poinsettia</a></u> is a fantastic way to celebrate Poinsettia Day on December 12. Author Alma Hammond explains the flowering plant is one of the most popular purchases around the holidays. Little Zetta wants to be purchased from her store so she can enjoy all the holiday festivities with a family.</div>
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<b>New Books Coming Soon</b></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KQKSncJNBVAULNvUioJ_tdJv5nMaIlCKotsppnT2mlO3SrPS5APpSHS9cuo0ApA29enuLvZlIqNqFYgAJyPPPkzdA85jAfnTuDaOGwgIsYN3R5H4b5jrK1Kd8aKcZIxf1iE0adpTmro6/s1600/51mDKZNU0%252BL._SY498_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KQKSncJNBVAULNvUioJ_tdJv5nMaIlCKotsppnT2mlO3SrPS5APpSHS9cuo0ApA29enuLvZlIqNqFYgAJyPPPkzdA85jAfnTuDaOGwgIsYN3R5H4b5jrK1Kd8aKcZIxf1iE0adpTmro6/s200/51mDKZNU0%252BL._SY498_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062835688/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0062835688&linkId=2018a26fd3724610a2c8691dc85c9764" target="_blank">Hugs & Kisses for The Grouchy Ladybug</a></u> by Eric Carle<br />
Publisher's Release Date: <b>December 18</b><br />
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Carle's famous ladybug is timeless. Here is a new book by Carle with his signature collage style illustrations and message of friendship.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnin0Kby47YdDjb9IPLaVGIOi9H1A88Zzogwo2Cl4OrRW9YfI6WDb7QHSbAjSwOphs7MZ1jBV44NwAns4-_sB4Ho7nd9qTiAqLpPiMmAs9UWGo6drN972BKGnvi88U6z-5vfZWDwMs_ok/s1600/PFH_3000px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1557" data-original-width="1600" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnin0Kby47YdDjb9IPLaVGIOi9H1A88Zzogwo2Cl4OrRW9YfI6WDb7QHSbAjSwOphs7MZ1jBV44NwAns4-_sB4Ho7nd9qTiAqLpPiMmAs9UWGo6drN972BKGnvi88U6z-5vfZWDwMs_ok/s200/PFH_3000px.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/153441441X/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=153441441X&linkId=587db24b5cbe61b8e1195fa229a2ebdc" target="_blank">Penguin Flies Home</a></u> by Lita Judge<br />
Publisher's Release Date: <b>January 15</b><br />
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Penguin heads back home to the South Pole to teach his friends how to fly in his very unique way. But, of course, there is a problem.<br />
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Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14880566999510076915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-24998362580681419522018-08-03T09:40:00.000-05:002018-08-03T09:40:28.431-05:00Special Needs Ministry: Teaching the StoryTeaching Bible truths is a key part of special-needs ministry. Effective lessons require repetition and addressing learning and physical needs. Here are 6 ways to teach students.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAeVnMqHJsUexwqW2qfFvUb52v3wuOmj67-ch3D1JQ_Bo06C8VHwpBHS7ky5HeXcnLRwV2kn5F4isHLS_MsypqZLxt40pfpYaBFecjUhI-K0W2xmCOG2MTHoKV2GkxhFXgGildH-9z92q/s1600/Pottstown+Weekend+Market+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Address special needs while teaching Bible truths" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAeVnMqHJsUexwqW2qfFvUb52v3wuOmj67-ch3D1JQ_Bo06C8VHwpBHS7ky5HeXcnLRwV2kn5F4isHLS_MsypqZLxt40pfpYaBFecjUhI-K0W2xmCOG2MTHoKV2GkxhFXgGildH-9z92q/s320/Pottstown+Weekend+Market+%25281%2529.png" title="Special-needs ministry - teaching the story" width="320" /></a></div>
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#1 - Use The Bible</h3>
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God's Word is The Bible. Always use The Bible. This shows children that you are reading or speaking from the truth.</div>
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#2 - Supplement with kid-friendly resources</h3>
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We have The Storybook Bible. I love the language and pictures in it. It's more appealing to children who like color and want to look at pictures. </div>
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Wait, what? Didn't I just say to use The Bible? Yes - that's for you the adult. It's hard for many of our children to sit at the table with <i>nothing</i>. We give them things to look at.</div>
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Another resource we use is <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Bible-Stories-The-Bundle-3491318?utm_source=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.allyallneed.com%2F&utm_campaign=Bible%20interactive%20stories%20blog%20post%20teaching%20the%20story" target="_blank">interactive books</a>. The children can look at pictures and text. They also get to move the pictures to match the story. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzapnrRw87p7QFs_4Ql_fyoh6hLuJCUMqo2XYfxWJOPWDEVi7gs3yP2hR5cpiUGqkaH-HJc0z94L1_z6HYdJ2c3ESHYnRMtvy2emLPfHhxjAL1OvqoixIpi8eZFtkYST9qz4AarXGnPZSv/s1600/ruth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use interactive books in ministry to help children learn Bible truths." border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1000" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzapnrRw87p7QFs_4Ql_fyoh6hLuJCUMqo2XYfxWJOPWDEVi7gs3yP2hR5cpiUGqkaH-HJc0z94L1_z6HYdJ2c3ESHYnRMtvy2emLPfHhxjAL1OvqoixIpi8eZFtkYST9qz4AarXGnPZSv/s320/ruth.jpg" title="Interactive Bible Stories" width="320" /></a></div>
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#3 - Repeat, repeat, repeat</h3>
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It can take up to 10-50 (!) times to learn a new word. Repetition is important. With different child-friendly Bibles and story supplements, it's easier to get in repetition. </div>
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The adult reads (or paraphrases) a verse or short set of verses from The Bible. Then, volunteers point out what the child-friendly Bibles and supplements say.</div>
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The NIV version of Ruth 2:17-18 from the picture above says: So Ruth gleaned into the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah. She carried it back to town, and her mother-in-law saw how much she had gathered. Ruth also brought out and gave her what she had left over after she had eaten enough.<br />
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There is a LOT of vocabulary in those verses that my children are not going to understand or relate to. Gleaning, threshed, barley, and <i>ephah</i>? So I'm going to take those out.<br />
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While holding and referring to The Bible, I would simplify the language to: Ruth worked in the field until the sun went down. She took the wheat she gathered. She took the wheat to her mother-in-law Naomi. They had food to eat. God took care of Ruth and Naomi.<br />
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The changes don't change the meaning of the verses. The changes just mean that I am using language that the children can understand and relate to more.<br />
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Next, we'll look at the child-friendly Bibles and the interactive books. I'll describe the pictures and read the text in the interactive books. I'll repeat "God took care of Ruth and Naomi" with each child.<br />
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For those two verses, I've now gotten in the Bible verses and 2-8 repetitions. Yeah, I know that's not close to the 10-50 repetitions we need - that will be in the next blog post. It's a start.<br />
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TIP: If you have volunteers who are new, hesitant, or competitive, tell them what you're focusing on, in this case, "God takes care of Ruth and Naomi" or "God takes care of me." Give the volunteers a pen and paper. Tell the volunteers to make a tally mark every time they hear a volunteer say the Bible truth of the day. New and hesitant volunteers will be appreciative for something easy and useful to do. Competitive volunteers will start trying to get tally marks, which means tons more repetition for students!<br />
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#4 - Ask the children to repeat the Bible truth</h3>
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After the story, I'll tell the children, "God took care of Ruth and Naomi. He gave them food to eat. What does God do?"</div>
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The children will say, "God takes care of me."</div>
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Got a child (or children) who won't say it? Yeah, me, too. </div>
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For nonverbal children, say, "God takes care of YOU," while emphasizing the YOU and pointing to them.</div>
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For children who are limited verbally, have them complete the Bible truth. "God takes care of..." and wait for them to say, "me!" If they don't respond, finish it for them. It's Bible instruction. We want to make it fun, positive, and practical, not force children into doing things they don't want to yet.</div>
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It's easy to give up when a child doesn't participate like you think they should. Don't give up! Keep trying. Most will eventually get what you're expecting and respond. Even if the children don't respond, they're getting lots of repetition and understanding.</div>
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#5 - Allow fidgets</h3>
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We let children have one fidget each. I mean, how hard is it for us as adults to pay attention without clicking our pens, changing our seating positions, or looking around?</div>
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Be sure to set expectations for the fidgets - one per child only, and eyes must be on the teacher or resource, not on the fidget. You'll want to have things like squishy balls and different textures of fabric that feel good but don't want to make the child look at them.</div>
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#6 - Look at seating</h3>
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Our ministry is lucky to have a PT (physical therapist.) I'm always amazed with PT/OTs walk in and say, "That table is too high/low" or "He needs a bigger/smaller chair." We are able to adjust our seating for comfort, but our special-needs children are not always able to do that or tell us they are uncomfortable. </div>
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It's amazing how much changing the table height and other small adjustments can make in student participation. Find someone who knows about motor skills and use their suggestions.</div>
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<i>Whew! </i>That's a lot! Here's the recap:</div>
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#1 - Use The Bible</div>
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#2 - Supplement with child-friendly resources</div>
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#3 - Repeat, repeat, repeat</div>
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#4 - Ask the children to repeat the Bible truth</div>
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#5 - Allow fidgets</div>
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#6 - Look at seating</div>
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If you want to come back to this post, just pin this image: </div>
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Thanks for reading. Next time, we'll talk about activities that get in more repetitions with Bible truths.</div>
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Other blog posts in this series:</div>
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<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2018/07/special-needs-ministry-4-lessons-ive.html" target="_blank">4 Lessons I've Learned</a></div>
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If you're interested in the interactive Bible books, you can click HERE. Disclaimer: I make and sell these books through a Teachers pay Teachers store, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Bible-Stories-The-Bundle-3491318?utm_source=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.allyallneed.com%2F&utm_campaign=Bible%20interactive%20stories%20blog%20post%20teaching%20the%20story" target="_blank">All Y'all Need</a>. </div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-57049444000699998162018-07-20T20:39:00.000-05:002020-01-18T19:29:05.622-06:00Special Needs Ministry: 4 Lessons I've LearnedSpecial-needs ministry. Where to start with this? How about at my story's beginning? And I'll share with you what <i>I </i>have learned. Yes, you read that right. The first lessons in serving begin with what God taught me.<br />
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Hi, I'm Laura. In August 2016, my youngest was headed to college. I was looking forward to doing empty-nest things with my husband. And then, Jim volunteered us for special-needs ministry.<br />
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What?!? I wanted an <i>easy</i> ministry. I'm an SLP (speech-language pathologist) in the public schools, and Jim is a middle-school counselor. How about a ministry <i>without</i> kids? In fact, how about an adult Sunday School where we just listened and participated?<br />
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Yep, you know the answer. God had other plans.<br />
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And here we are today, in a bright and shiny suite - with space, toys, and sensory items - designed to serve.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYzeyJrhMky4hDVfjHbbGrLIEcLrw5uA1p96oOsBWrQWfFiOoiiGq3D4T6q_EMZEcNHaANQCQeXwhA0n6MGn1Z_5SUfcf4ZwM1ASwxhIqCLNvhJ81TxDh3YOqC6k3Q6tOXkjAQNbcm_Ya/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-07-19+at+6.53.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="207" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYzeyJrhMky4hDVfjHbbGrLIEcLrw5uA1p96oOsBWrQWfFiOoiiGq3D4T6q_EMZEcNHaANQCQeXwhA0n6MGn1Z_5SUfcf4ZwM1ASwxhIqCLNvhJ81TxDh3YOqC6k3Q6tOXkjAQNbcm_Ya/s200/Screen+Shot+2018-07-19+at+6.53.28+PM.png" width="150" /></a></div>
Oh, there were things in the middle of volunteering and where our ministry is today, lots of things.<br />
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When I first showed up, I'm sure a had a deer-in-the-headlights look. The special-needs room was not built for the ministry. There was also some transition going on - the program was growing, some children were heading towards the teen years, and new children with more needs were moving in.<br />
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And, our church was getting ready to totally remodel all of the children's wing.<br />
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One of the volunteers graciously started heading up the special-needs ministry. Our church leadership recognized the need and created a position. Another volunteer started working with the teens. More children started attending. Without our church leadership recognizing the need to minister to children and families, we would have gone nowhere.<br />
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Lesson #1 - Church leadership has to be invested in the ministry.</h3>
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With anywhere from 15-20% of children having a disability and 1 in 7 being on the autism spectrum, ministering to children is no longer an option. It's a must. We can do a lot as individuals and teams. Without support from church leadership, we are spinning our wheels. The leadership at my church recognized that and put a lot of thought (and money) into future plans.</div>
<h3>
Lesson #2 - We needed a plan.</h3>
Another early lesson learned was - we needed a plan. From safety issues to medical issues, each child had varying needs. Our director set up input forms for parents that included information about the child's needs and preferences and contact information. Many entry forms are long, and they should be, so we can best serve the children. I've made you a free form for first-time visitors. It's only one page, gets the basics, and isn't as intimidating for parents and guardians used to filling out mound of paperwork. You can get the About Me form by clicking <a href="http://bit.ly/2JDaT5L" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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Lesson #3 - God gave me skills.</h3>
As an SLP in public schools, IEPs are my life. At church, I could play, I could love, I could talk. I didn't have to worry about IEPs. But then I found that speech therapy skills transfer over into my life. One Sunday, our lesson was about Esther. When a child played with blocks, I talked about Esther being a queen and living in a castle, and that's what we built. Other volunteers picked up on that, which led to a discussion about our children needing repetition. And I've learned from others. It's a team effort. God didn't give just me skills, he gave us all skills. We need to recognize that and use our skills, not hide them.<br />
<h3>
Lesson #4 - The Purpose.</h3>
One thing I personally struggled with was - what's our purpose? Is it to take care of the children so parents can worship without worrying? Or is it to teach Bible truths to the children? Well, yes. Part of our mission for His Kids (the name of our ministry) is: "It is a time for families to participate in Sunday morning church, for students with special needs to learn about Jesus in a loving and supportive environment..."<br />
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<i>WHEW! </i>Not exactly the easy empty-nester ministry I had been hoping for. The ministry moved to a portable for several months during renovations. There wasn't much space, there weren't ideal toileting facilities, and it was kind of a "make it till the remodel finishes" time.<br />
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But now we have a wonderful space, thanks to our director and church leadership! Let me show you around.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4St93XtiFTqekfY7_2SBTFXLdFyTbmpqwhMk6SATAeD5ZczTvWwOT9_MSk7dCajOJHQd77Qfofp9Z2qNa_d3Bv_qz-ZPaoUfa2qden5OAP5fLP2Pwo9KbJfgjV9aA6K0hYty8P8m68FfD/s1600/parking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="640" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4St93XtiFTqekfY7_2SBTFXLdFyTbmpqwhMk6SATAeD5ZczTvWwOT9_MSk7dCajOJHQd77Qfofp9Z2qNa_d3Bv_qz-ZPaoUfa2qden5OAP5fLP2Pwo9KbJfgjV9aA6K0hYty8P8m68FfD/s320/parking.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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An entrance just for special-needs families. It's near the accessible parking. Children who feel overwhelmed walking through crowds can use this entrance. The doors lock so that we can monitor who comes in. And, they can also lock for safety in the case of runners or people not in the ministry.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0qV1vzwt-5_SbzrwBbMX3aPeBq7nWqc4Hz-MlNZEEPRZmfm0YjppWfSBI3ileUcr2meh94I6A_SeWUoqsVmCJLlCKsy46wZAAMFQU86MuKEAd24Rx2Jz4ecS-wfff0z99aLfu4LopyBz/s1600/materials.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0qV1vzwt-5_SbzrwBbMX3aPeBq7nWqc4Hz-MlNZEEPRZmfm0YjppWfSBI3ileUcr2meh94I6A_SeWUoqsVmCJLlCKsy46wZAAMFQU86MuKEAd24Rx2Jz4ecS-wfff0z99aLfu4LopyBz/s320/materials.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We have materials to teach Bible truths with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHea8c-L5r0yNCCH86XHBwv_8OjXBhd295nWiPmrX9CB69lfGpPHGOByEsGCWGiC3ZexJJEk4x4-UrdH2Qb9lOlJxpe2LCYSKOJm7rxawj76MX5LRosw6J5B0XhcvQiDWCKtV3zHkj2OK6/s1600/reading+corner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHea8c-L5r0yNCCH86XHBwv_8OjXBhd295nWiPmrX9CB69lfGpPHGOByEsGCWGiC3ZexJJEk4x4-UrdH2Qb9lOlJxpe2LCYSKOJm7rxawj76MX5LRosw6J5B0XhcvQiDWCKtV3zHkj2OK6/s320/reading+corner.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
My favorite part is this cozy corner. With crash pads and weighted blankets, it will be a good calm-down space or comforting place for a child who needs it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_k4hP3MtD8MEXNI_xIEw9IBPQZFRRmFRNliQDRid6Nn5Mo0XADagXhyphenhyphen7N5iEaWIlWf4ucCROzuiM8-qdW44O6MMeQsLgA-4GOsg3B4-qQ2D_-N889lxyk1_yp60-N5-61ClYlWui_X5Co/s1600/sensory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_k4hP3MtD8MEXNI_xIEw9IBPQZFRRmFRNliQDRid6Nn5Mo0XADagXhyphenhyphen7N5iEaWIlWf4ucCROzuiM8-qdW44O6MMeQsLgA-4GOsg3B4-qQ2D_-N889lxyk1_yp60-N5-61ClYlWui_X5Co/s320/sensory.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The lights in this room can be dimmed so that sensory objects can be used for calming or engaging with children.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wPI3g_G6-v82i0nB83XB754VG-8ua1VmOd2zvNhpRzqYTp-2c5P_HrxMvdM1BmqNV8sgN7PHf8AGpdfFw2rQFsnhV6HRyVk2xdJWnkCH1htV-O5ViuWayaqaCF_vu1ufoWwg3Rd5V5Qf/s1600/light+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wPI3g_G6-v82i0nB83XB754VG-8ua1VmOd2zvNhpRzqYTp-2c5P_HrxMvdM1BmqNV8sgN7PHf8AGpdfFw2rQFsnhV6HRyVk2xdJWnkCH1htV-O5ViuWayaqaCF_vu1ufoWwg3Rd5V5Qf/s320/light+table.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
There's also a fun light table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugXLkAJ5hshTMHwdXMsjR63XuInVRtJNBHeH4cb-vPIZXT3mwpg9nwCtE326DMMsU-q1EGDMJFUxD2RX2DbAFJP9_9A1xPLGHtZqWU23is1kfFYT2WYHAreQxIQLvOpn35BQAiq7Tuc4P/s1600/couch+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugXLkAJ5hshTMHwdXMsjR63XuInVRtJNBHeH4cb-vPIZXT3mwpg9nwCtE326DMMsU-q1EGDMJFUxD2RX2DbAFJP9_9A1xPLGHtZqWU23is1kfFYT2WYHAreQxIQLvOpn35BQAiq7Tuc4P/s320/couch+closeup.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
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Here is our space for children as they get older. The couch and "hang-out" atmosphere are more age-appropriate for children who have moved past the toy cars and Legos.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwrOB9jXv8u_B2wCL5xNzINSiAyb3OgMw3QoySczndCY7UMt4-rJR3LXZOMgJaGFjW8NGrJLD9QJZw7xNpSbVhTP-fmcHsgxv8hFPNzhnraQuHt3avbJ17s4b9-Rq1e3G5JiuoCT9-8Dh/s1600/bathroom+stalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="453" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwrOB9jXv8u_B2wCL5xNzINSiAyb3OgMw3QoySczndCY7UMt4-rJR3LXZOMgJaGFjW8NGrJLD9QJZw7xNpSbVhTP-fmcHsgxv8hFPNzhnraQuHt3avbJ17s4b9-Rq1e3G5JiuoCT9-8Dh/s320/bathroom+stalls.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEIeVkQPV5ArjImn7EvUcA3gRV-VHPp3FoUkCEIptBRcZlj8R-7VE5MPIq77Ci0aDYbTkyBQJT9xQowxMvQxEhjeToT87r4hnzBCCJwDmAHTwsbLgY-yDKh5INDKyghOtXkNzhe4kHZVK/s1600/bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEIeVkQPV5ArjImn7EvUcA3gRV-VHPp3FoUkCEIptBRcZlj8R-7VE5MPIq77Ci0aDYbTkyBQJT9xQowxMvQxEhjeToT87r4hnzBCCJwDmAHTwsbLgY-yDKh5INDKyghOtXkNzhe4kHZVK/s320/bathroom.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We now have age-appropriate bathroom stalls and a changing station.</div>
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To summarize, here are the lessons learned so far:</div>
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1) Church leadership must be invested in special-needs ministry.</div>
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2) A plan is needed for safety and medical concerns.</div>
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3) Use the skills God gives us.<br />
4) Set up the room for the purpose of ministering to the children.<br />
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Want to come back to this article? Pin this picture, and you can come right back to this post from Pinterest!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkoeZI6rzMpNBpe_I7okmm1uDly5EBNnXS8JSZ3UkYcYVVxzFNs42y56-k92bQSYt_uMdsUgZQ4wSjVlv-WEvl3ec4CPHYCLhsL0bDgRDyyasvh2FBl_mr_fAHvwfFk3S5BYVfOmZ8tM9/s1600/Spaces+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Getting church leadership invested, setting up a special-needs church room, and using God-given skills are important lessons." border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkoeZI6rzMpNBpe_I7okmm1uDly5EBNnXS8JSZ3UkYcYVVxzFNs42y56-k92bQSYt_uMdsUgZQ4wSjVlv-WEvl3ec4CPHYCLhsL0bDgRDyyasvh2FBl_mr_fAHvwfFk3S5BYVfOmZ8tM9/s320/Spaces+%25281%2529.png" title="4 Lessons I Learned in Special-Needs Ministry" width="213" /></a></div>
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Thanks for reading. I'll be back soon with the next post in this series, Teaching The Story.</div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-53641399059623315822018-06-04T16:57:00.000-05:002018-06-04T16:57:27.002-05:003 Things SLPs Need to Know in The SummerHappy Summer! Time for resting, beach time, family, and SLP life. Yep, being an SLP never ends. That doesn't mean it has to consume us. Here are 3 tips to help you through the summer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbptAYFkE1qMbd87U0Kh5YKEpqHDhBB_9XsN6c-fbRwuDSCG01oLZEO5iW1gYezBU5uMe97jOy37SvJr6FKOgt4HYLsi_WV5ZD_P3kSCq7pJ-huxeg1ZBtwXR5EIaqOLp7hCU5BNFy5aHu/s1600/summer+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbptAYFkE1qMbd87U0Kh5YKEpqHDhBB_9XsN6c-fbRwuDSCG01oLZEO5iW1gYezBU5uMe97jOy37SvJr6FKOgt4HYLsi_WV5ZD_P3kSCq7pJ-huxeg1ZBtwXR5EIaqOLp7hCU5BNFy5aHu/s320/summer+blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
1) Rest</h3>
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The end of the school year is crazy! We've been cramming in meetings, staying up late to write reports, and getting all the service time in.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Take some time to enjoy life without an alarm clock, a night where you're not wondering what the next day's therapy will bring, and all the bathroom breaks you want! Don't feel guilty about having some time to recharge. The summer is a factor in choosing to work in the schools in the first place. There are many days that you are making more withdrawals in your personal bank account than deposits. Feel free to make a few deposits.</div>
<h3>
2) Stop searching for balance</h3>
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Speaking of freedom, here's a big one - there is no such thing as balance.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Searching for balance is an impossible task. You'll never be able to even out family and work. Summer break is not going to balance out all of the work we do during the school year. If we try to do that, we are going to be exhausted. </div>
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<br /></div>
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That's not to say there aren't priorities and responsibilities. I still have the responsibilities to take care of chores and bills. I still have priorities during the day.<br /></div>
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But balance? Counting time and making sure everything is even is for the birds. It's a myth. Once I stopped searching for the elusive balance and focused on responsibilities and priorities, a burden was lifted. </div>
<h3>
3) You're still an SLP</h3>
We keep learning during the summer. Whether it's CEUs, reading about best practices, or working with <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2014/09/why-i-struggle-on-when-to-treat-r.html" target="_blank">our own children</a>, we are still SLPs. And vacation? My family has simultaneously told me to leave my "SLP mind" at home while asking about nearby children they are concerned about. That situation even led me to this blog post of <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2014/01/manic-monday-articulation-guide-to.html" target="_blank">princess names</a>.<br />
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If you're getting together with family and friends, be prepared to have an observation ready to go when someone asks you, "Do you think my child needs speech therapy?" It's just something about our field. I don't offer my opinions unless asked. I'm happy to discuss concerns and questions as they come up.<br />
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I've taken CEUs during some summers and totally taken off other summers. It depends on what the topics are, the dates (I won't change vacation dates for CEUs), and how many hours I need. Last summer, I got in hours during the ASHA Connect conference with friends - it was a wonderful combination of relationships and CEUs!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7Xha_Z-9pbGQfXIcihx3q7OjI5xVrKNHV1j1G_d-hGajUWMpooHZygAtSq1_jPgxQw0unzJ4UgUM40XGHLFM_1Ckcn5rPnqOteIuCaCADcoBDkfpXXCWW87cjv28b0j8zK5f6-xsFR4p/s1600/nola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="644" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7Xha_Z-9pbGQfXIcihx3q7OjI5xVrKNHV1j1G_d-hGajUWMpooHZygAtSq1_jPgxQw0unzJ4UgUM40XGHLFM_1Ckcn5rPnqOteIuCaCADcoBDkfpXXCWW87cjv28b0j8zK5f6-xsFR4p/s320/nola.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
From left to right: Mia from <a href="http://www.puttingwordsinyourmouth.com/" target="_blank">Putting Words in Your Mouth</a>, me, Pam from <a href="http://chitchatandsmalltalk.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chit Chat and Small Talk</a>, Mary from <a href="https://www.oldschoolspeech.com/" target="_blank">Old School Speech</a>, Annie from <a href="http://doylespeechworks.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Doyle Speech Works</a>, Tracy from <a href="http://goldcountryslp.com/" target="_blank">GoldCountrySLP</a>, and Carly.<br />
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This summer, I don't have any CEUs scheduled. I'll have to be more aware of getting in my hours during the school year. Fortunately, <a href="http://www.txsha.org/" target="_blank">TSHA</a> offers great sessions!<br />
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Rest, prioritize instead of balancing, and keep up your skills. Here's to a wonderful summer!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdcpuq4XCmv8_q6rcGjeejCVv9bS0C5IjDKVeU53mfCQ6siRUqafvLLUP7VDLqih7EdYRVwBJfIitRFAlrfTHcLz3IypnAnAhQr5UCJoI_zbtLe_YgNDGqszk4DBq3Tlsz0tRYNOMFT_B/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rest, stop searching for balance, and keep learning" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdcpuq4XCmv8_q6rcGjeejCVv9bS0C5IjDKVeU53mfCQ6siRUqafvLLUP7VDLqih7EdYRVwBJfIitRFAlrfTHcLz3IypnAnAhQr5UCJoI_zbtLe_YgNDGqszk4DBq3Tlsz0tRYNOMFT_B/s320/3.png" title="All Y'all Need 3 Things SLPs Need to Know about Summer" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-26323586225325122542018-05-20T07:30:00.000-05:002018-05-20T07:30:07.324-05:00Summer Speech Therapy Carryover ActivitiesAh, summer!<br />
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Time for going outside, swimming, vacationing, and... practicing communication skills!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymV21Ob4MEyomyII79Z1Ed1O5Gd8wUJDj3yNTIdzasvtp0hRDlsEcQz0MWgqrwtoBbzcRUD1husJ-1_F3-mKM99HhadI3lboHMvcsrgud7jem5SFoNTtiaxyRRMcXeBf6lgButmnql17q/s1600/32783817_10214219222412753_3126433426358403072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjymV21Ob4MEyomyII79Z1Ed1O5Gd8wUJDj3yNTIdzasvtp0hRDlsEcQz0MWgqrwtoBbzcRUD1husJ-1_F3-mKM99HhadI3lboHMvcsrgud7jem5SFoNTtiaxyRRMcXeBf6lgButmnql17q/s320/32783817_10214219222412753_3126433426358403072_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/thefrenziedSLPs/" target="_blank">The Frenzied SLPs</a> are hosting a linky party with LOTS of ideas for speech and language practice during the summer.<br />
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I know what you're thinking because I'm thinking the exact same things. First, I'm seeing a lot of progress with many students at right now, and I want that to continue, so I'm sending homework to parents.<br />
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Also me: Parents don't do the homework during the school year, so why would I expect them to during the summer?<br />
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And me: Kids should just be kids during the summer!<br />
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I have little experience with <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2014/09/why-i-struggle-on-when-to-treat-r.html" target="_blank">my own daughter.</a> Yep, I'm an SLP who named her daughter a name that STARTS with /r/. It wasn't the first choice for her name, but when that didn't work out, the /r/ name was the only one my husband and I agreed on. I blame the fact that I had natural childbirth, and not by choice. No one believed me when I told them I was in labor and it was too late for an epidural.<br />
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With my daughter R, I quickly found out that working on artic all day was not going to cut it. We agreed to work on it only in the car - win for me since those were the days of driving to dance and baseball. And you know what? She worked on /r/ in the car, I didn't worry about it the rest of the time, and everything worked out nicely.<br />
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Our Students NEED to Practice Their Skills During the Summer</h3>
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So students don't practice during the week. They are still getting therapy. During the summer, that's 2-3 months with no therapy. Practice is important!</div>
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Calendars provide an easy visual for parents, a short time for kids to practice communication skills, and they are easy to keep track of.</div>
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I use summer homework from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Summer-Homework-Calendars-for-Speech-Articulation-Language-Fluency-699207" target="_blank">A Perfect Blend.</a> I like the calendars and the ability to print in B&W and then copy onto color paper. The colors will make the packet stand out to parents, and they can just post the calendar on their refrigerators!</div>
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Frenzied SLP Schoolhouse Talk has some free calendars that come in color and B&W for <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Summer-Speech-Homework-Calendars-for-Articulation-729276" target="_blank">articulation</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Summer-Homework-Calendars-for-Language-729494" target="_blank">language</a>. Again, having the option to print in B&W and copy onto solid color paper is a big plus!</div>
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TIP: Wanna make sure the homework gets home? Copy the final progress report onto color paper and staple it on top. Students are more likely to take home report cards.</div>
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That covers getting the homework calendars home and letters to parents stressing the importance of practicing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPAziliowsDK8_P3AWL9-CeXbcZqxT8s-Uv8i5mX2xqIAmoLXhK9q_VI4vRlYQOFHhcuuFS-yhVbbRk0RVNyS2td9Hc8HkMrvkI_aa6PUACz21sSNTPZCnSyAxi2fYAMYP3-6gmhJeRHB/s1600/blog+library+program.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="1600" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPAziliowsDK8_P3AWL9-CeXbcZqxT8s-Uv8i5mX2xqIAmoLXhK9q_VI4vRlYQOFHhcuuFS-yhVbbRk0RVNyS2td9Hc8HkMrvkI_aa6PUACz21sSNTPZCnSyAxi2fYAMYP3-6gmhJeRHB/s320/blog+library+program.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kids Should Be Kids!</h3>
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I totally agree with this. Summer is a time to rest, experience new things, and have fun. That doesn't mean summer is a time to stop learning.</div>
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I took both of my kids to the local library for summer reading programs. They loved picking out books and getting prizes like stickers and ice cream at local restaurants. The library also had programs with exotic animals and magic tricks. My kids didn't even know they were still learning because it was so much fun!</div>
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I loved having an indoor summer activity with A/C!</div>
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It's summer easy - we just had to sign up, and it was free. Check with your library and see if they have a program. Then pass the word to parents.</div>
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Be sure to click on the links below for more ideas!</div>
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<a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=781259" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
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Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-76959149369279325592018-05-08T21:17:00.000-05:002018-05-08T21:17:58.218-05:00Tips and Truth for SLPs - Cooperative Games<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxL2drWaWPIzBN1d3otwBGZIEcYD4Fo-f6kUgFlYFGI0GrrVkb6jWqt_NF2EqPYEcd_zU7jAIRjN8kTCytcNkc7waOX9RR9K_xszx96ols6LDNN7KSbl6hfvFc_4LRcHsTlk7fKH2s50o/s1600/31363315_10157518708604762_7177218431282839552_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxL2drWaWPIzBN1d3otwBGZIEcYD4Fo-f6kUgFlYFGI0GrrVkb6jWqt_NF2EqPYEcd_zU7jAIRjN8kTCytcNkc7waOX9RR9K_xszx96ols6LDNN7KSbl6hfvFc_4LRcHsTlk7fKH2s50o/s400/31363315_10157518708604762_7177218431282839552_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thanks for joining in with the Tips and Truth podcast! For your convenience, here are links to the topics I will be referencing.<br />
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<h3>
Blog Posts:</h3>
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2012/02/speech-therapy-cooperative-games.html" target="_blank">Where It All Started</a><br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2016/08/i-played-card-games-wrong-how-i-fixed-it.html" target="_blank">I Played Card Games Wrong - How I Fixed It</a><br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/11/how-to-turn-board-games-into.html" target="_blank">How to Turn Board Games into Cooperative Games</a><br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/12/how-to-turn-balance-games-into.html" target="_blank">How to Turn Balance Games into Cooperative Games</a><br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2018/01/how-to-turn-matching-games-into.html" target="_blank">How to Turn Matching Games into Cooperative Games</a><br />
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From the Store:</h3>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Jokes-Bundle-3510608" target="_blank">Jokes Bundle</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Draw-a-BUG-Game-Open-Ended-for-Speech-Language-Therapy-3645514" target="_blank">Draw a BUG! Game</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Bible-Stories-The-Bundle-3491318" target="_blank">Interactive Bible Stories Bundle</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Interactive-Bible-Stories-FREE-The-Colors-of-the-Gospel-3751561" target="_blank">FREE The Colors of The Gospel Interactive Book</a></div>
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-22212363640342340922018-01-30T20:08:00.002-06:002018-01-30T20:09:17.321-06:00How to Turn Matching Games into Cooperative GamesMatching games, Memory, Concentration - whatever you call it - can add some fun and are a good alternative to solid drill and kill. There can be some problems in mixed groups - the artic students get the cards without their sounds, the language students can't remember where the matches are in a large visual field, and there is always one student who snatches up all the matches in half the therapy time.<br />
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I'm left without good data, extra time in therapy, and unhappy students who didn't get enough turns.<br />
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I need more control in these games.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGF2Otl5EgS6bUxKHlibf0HtGsAqoT4KpWRzq9UVFIjlnAC6Z3eCV98UooJ2eQ7wvBaGvuxw3ZrojAzCtn_fGl4r1dgtQttt6g-U60N4DwoVNYlb9A9SvDdGoGyJCP6tXPS10uDbjrp8I/s1600/HOW+TO+MAKE+%25285%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGF2Otl5EgS6bUxKHlibf0HtGsAqoT4KpWRzq9UVFIjlnAC6Z3eCV98UooJ2eQ7wvBaGvuxw3ZrojAzCtn_fGl4r1dgtQttt6g-U60N4DwoVNYlb9A9SvDdGoGyJCP6tXPS10uDbjrp8I/s320/HOW+TO+MAKE+%25285%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Much like <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/11/how-to-turn-board-games-into.html" target="_blank">board games</a> and <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/12/how-to-turn-balance-games-into.html" target="_blank">balance games</a>, I've turned matching games into cooperative games.<br />
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I'm not against competition. I <i>am</i> all for using therapy time efficiently, and the usual Memory rules mess that up. I always have one student who gets a match and then runs through the rest of the matches. Artic students don't want to say words if a another student gets their match. Some students immediately give up because there are too many cards to remember.<br />
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My first solution is to halve the cards. It's pretty easy to do so with cards from Super Duper Inc. because they are numbered and lettered, as in 1A, 1B.<br />
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These cards are also easy to separate because there is a word on one side and a question on the other.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/All-Yall-Need/Search:younger" target="_blank"><img alt="speech therapy memory games" border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="262" data-pin-nopin="nopin" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIt6bBOFuOmdmqdiimKmPv4UeJ3qxHGvtr9t9UEN5Sy5G-6vQzCXR-wiNJP1eXrI4O7hXdJnF0u3IMi6PvkCS6wTYMViFkti7pja2W7M5uh-KEmhlqacVZSyFneZxnLYfwtysIO2NSn5L/s1600/Screen+Shot+2018-01-30+at+8.00.03+PM.png" title="speech therapy memory games" /></a></div>
After the cards are separated, I can control which one students are looking for. I distribute one pile to the group. This works well in mixed groups. I can give the /s/ cards to the artic student. I can choose the vocabulary words the student needs to work on. Students are matching cards containing their IEP objectives. I get data.<br />
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By passing out half of the piles, the visual field is automatically reduced. Students who are easily frustrated by a tableful of blank white cards can breathe easier. There aren't as many cards to remember.<br />
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The next adjustment I make is that students only get one turn at a time. Even if a student gets a match, we move on. That way, the one student with the perfect visual memory isn't sweeping up all the cards.<br />
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Once a student finds all of the matches, a small reward is offered - a <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2015/12/smelly-smilies-for-behavior-management.html#more" target="_blank">smelly smiley</a>, a sticker, or high five. By taking one turn at a time, the group usually finishes the game around the same time. If the group is having trouble waiting for turns, I make the whole group wait until everyone finds their matches before giving a reward.<br />
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Don't be afraid to run very small matching games. In self-contained rooms, I've given students 1-2 cards to match. For students who have a primary eligibility other than speech, a big matching game can be too much. By giving them a visual and only putting 2-4 upside down cards on the table, they can work on turn-taking while also having fun "finding" their matches.<br />
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If you like these tips, be sure to pin this post for future reference.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/All-Yall-Need/Search:younger" target="_blank"><img alt=" How to turn matching games into cooperative games in speech therapy to address student IEPs and work efficiently" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHb7U5mFg5nOZN0TLvfiYDyV7Lqo4lHMvARUWKfYx9pZfdZ4e38M8lQ2KQqX4Yyw-pVOUnlb3_W8upvYF6gClh5Kcf-Pr5xDgr1NyiXQhjRE_0AVv4KoC8k42IJJjufGzEqfPG75Dhfp8/s320/HOW+TO+MAKE+%25284%2529.png" title="" width="213" /></a></div>
I've also turned other types of games into cooperative games. Read more at:<br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/11/how-to-turn-board-games-into.html" target="_blank">How to Turn Board Games into Cooperative Games</a><br />
<a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/12/how-to-turn-balance-games-into.html" target="_blank">How to Turn Balance Games into Cooperative Games</a><br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-11111727721597033762017-12-29T08:00:00.000-06:002017-12-29T08:00:15.771-06:00Letters Alive Plus! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://alivestudiosco.com/"><img alt="Letters alive logo" border="0" height="200" src="https://alivestudiosco.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/letters-alive-plus.png" style="width: 250px;" width="156" /></a></span></td></tr>
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Letters Alive is a supplemental reading program that incorporates technology (augmented reality) and the alphabet. Letters Alive has helped reinforce the alphabet, introduce new vocabulary, and build words.<br />
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Here's a quick demo of what it can do:<br />
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<a href="https://alivestudiosco.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/letters-alive-plus-video-thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://alivestudiosco.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/letters-alive-plus-video-thumb.jpg" /></a></div>
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Check out our Facebook page to watch videos of how we are using Letters Alive in our classrooms! </div>
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Here's a link to our videos:<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/allyallneed3/videos/1744939555535525/">https://www.facebook.com/allyallneed3/videos/1744939555535525/</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Spend $50 or more and you'll receive a FREE Amos Alligator Storybook! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Just type in the code </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: blue;">allyallneed</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be on the lookout for upcoming videos! We have exciting news to share very soon!!!</span></span></div>
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Lisa Faughthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00906847235080854398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-4398155689389072082017-12-07T21:18:00.001-06:002018-01-30T20:07:12.790-06:00How to Turn Balance Games into Cooperative GamesGames that require putting pieces on a structure - or taking them off - are easy, motivating, and fun. In therapy, they can also lead to competition that takes focus off speech and language goals. Keep reading to find out how to use these games while running effective therapy groups.<br />
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<a data-pin-nopin="nopin" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMBH6dlL2j-sgHLc0l6LZHB-KA74_EWgy7A6C2PUj_OUNcU3Cdtf_Ut-Db4OeinNeM5MU74JTHTaEKtRSb-FefwmY8CNWDJPLWQyyopEc4axxhpNeAoCtu_K0Usfr3-e8lgsQ39LmD9St/s1600/HOW+TO+MAKE+%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="how to turn a board game into a cooperative game in speech therapy by All Y'all Need" border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMBH6dlL2j-sgHLc0l6LZHB-KA74_EWgy7A6C2PUj_OUNcU3Cdtf_Ut-Db4OeinNeM5MU74JTHTaEKtRSb-FefwmY8CNWDJPLWQyyopEc4axxhpNeAoCtu_K0Usfr3-e8lgsQ39LmD9St/s320/HOW+TO+MAKE+%25283%2529.png" title="how to turn a board game into a cooperative game in speech therapy by All Y'all Need" width="320" /></a></div>
Games like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Game-Zone-Monkeying-Around-Balancing/dp/B00028A0Z0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1512689347&sr=8-2&keywords=monkeying+around" target="_blank">Monkeying Around</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/PlayMonster-6958-Yeti-in-Spaghetti/dp/B00UPAYY5C/ref=pd_sim_21_20?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=C1XYV67SZ3RFR7DMDNRW" target="_blank">Yeti in My Spaghetti</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-04785-Dont-Spill-Beans/dp/B00000IWDP/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1512689570&sr=1-2&keywords=don%27t+spill+the+beans" target="_blank">Don't Spill the Beans</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Break-the-Ice-Game/dp/B01MS6B7BV/ref=sr_1_7?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1512689458&sr=1-7&keywords=cootie+game" target="_blank">Don't Break the Ice</a>, and many more, are easy to find, affordable and engaging. This cooperative method will work with any game that involves balance through either adding or taking away game parts.<br />
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Let's talk about Monkeying Around.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZp4p5XnK0UZgM8z9MXQV9WOJG2DOvE5TvYb4B2hPlmg4t4-Tw-xy6XzgYVL80JW2-zVZnMzMTx_8g9avsqViVJTtstCVIKAg_qlqK7K3eXQRKkDaS09ZvXJ2M3p9GoPF7Cd3JTgR_edCM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-12-07+at+5.37.26+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="431" data-pin-nopin="nopin" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZp4p5XnK0UZgM8z9MXQV9WOJG2DOvE5TvYb4B2hPlmg4t4-Tw-xy6XzgYVL80JW2-zVZnMzMTx_8g9avsqViVJTtstCVIKAg_qlqK7K3eXQRKkDaS09ZvXJ2M3p9GoPF7Cd3JTgR_edCM/s320/Screen+Shot+2017-12-07+at+5.37.26+PM.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>
The object of this game is to put on all the monkeys without making the magnetic tree canopy fall down. If it does, the hungry alligator gets to eat the monkeys!<br />
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It's cute, it's fun, so what's the problem? Students start focusing on who makes the tree fall. And see the little spinner in the yellow circle? They get upset if a friend spins 3 and they spin a 1. The cries of "No fair!" start. And then behavior management. And speech and language goals get stuffed into a few minutes of precious therapy time.<br />
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Here's my solution:<br />
* Don't use the spinner. Everyone gets 1 monkey per turn. No one focuses on who spun a 3 and who spun a 1.<br />
* Because students are not focusing on the spinner, they can look through their stimulus cards or write words on their homework pages.<br />
* Set a team goal, for example, the group has to work together to get 12 monkeys on the tree without it falling before getting <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2015/12/smelly-smilies-for-behavior-management.html#more" target="_blank">a smelly smiley</a>.<br />
Lather, rinse, and repeat for any game that requires balance.<br />
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What about games that take away, like Don't Break the Ice? I also set a team goal for those. For example, I may require that students work until each student has 4 blocks. If all the blocks fall before that, they all go back into the tray.<br />
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The same result happens - students work together, don't blame the poor person who has to hit the ice cube that will make everything drop, and they can pay attention to what's going on while also working on homework pages between turns.<br />
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Be sure to check out <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2017/11/how-to-turn-board-games-into.html" target="_blank">How to Turn Board Games into Cooperative Games</a> for more tips. And be sure to check back for more types of cooperative games.<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-47958335696837220222017-11-27T19:16:00.000-06:002017-12-07T21:16:11.117-06:00How to Turn Board Games into Cooperative GamesGames are great motivators in speech therapy. And I love getting lots of data from open-ended turn-taking games. The downside? Games are games. And they can bring out competitiveness, cries of "No fair!" and not much focus on language skills. Cooperative games are my solution, and this method will work for open-ended board games!<br />
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I changed to cooperative games waaay back in 2002. You can read about my reasons for this in <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2012/02/speech-therapy-cooperative-games.html" target="_blank">Cooperative Games</a>. Suffice it to say, there was a group of 2nd-grade boys who tested ALL of my therapy skills. We weren't getting ANY work done. I had to change.<br />
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Open-ended games are some of my favorite therapy tools. I can address some drill & kill in mixed groups, get good hard data, and the games are pretty easy to set up. I frequently use the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Open-Ended-Game-Boards-August-thru-December-Edition-874497" target="_blank">August-December</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Open-Ended-Seasonal-Game-Boards-January-thru-April-edition-503503" target="_blank">January through April</a> game boards from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mia-Mcdaniel" target="_blank">Mia McDaniel - Putting Words in Your Mouth</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Open-Ended-Game-Boards-August-thru-December-Edition-874497" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" data-pin-nopin="nopin" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XIvsG0I2BcJ0VXhc2xCbFZN8Q_VFS2vBxVB0Rv6_TBy8tzr-Qoo32BbobimNbna_ExgJ_-Rm7jr1Yh0Wyqk5Ee2mbTQUF22Mv8r7NsQcAZmoIrovO_wJJ7AHhwfKXi3TEI7O_xvuhphU/s320/santa+game.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A typical session starts with assigning game pieces. I've tried different ways - letting students pick, shaking the pieces in my hand and drawing them out blind, and throwing them up in the air like confetti and seeing who catches which one. Not really, but it feels that way sometimes!<br />
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The best way to assign the game pieces is by shirt color. I can keep track of which pawn is whose at a glance - a handy thing when I'm keeping data, running the game, working with a small group, AND doing behavior management.<br />
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Next, we quickly review our speech and language goals for the session.<br />
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I explain the rules of the game. It should be pretty easy - take a turn, roll a die, first one to finish wins. It's not. Inevitably, one student will always roll the 1 while another always rolls the 3 (I only use 1, 2, 3 dice.) Here are the rules for a cooperative game:<br />
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* EVERYONE has to get to the end to get a reward. I use smellies (read about these <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2013/01/speech-therapy-smelly-incentives.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2015/12/smelly-smilies-for-behavior-management.html#more" target="_blank">here</a>) because they are easy and motivating. Stickers and brag tags also work.<br />
* The first one to finish still takes turns. They continue to roll and let another student move those spaces.<br />
* If you roll the die off the table, you lose your turn.<br />
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That's it. Just 3 rules. The benefits are:<br />
* Behavior management - the students are focused on working together to all finish the game.<br />
* Focus on speech/language skills - the students aren't worried about who is ahead.<br />
* Fewer cries of "No fair!", "He's cheating!", and "I'll never win!"<br />
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Usually, there is one student in the group who is one concerned about where everyone is on the game board. You know, the one who moans, "I'll never catch up!" or crows "I'm so far ahead of everyone!" Cooperative games give that student a chance to be helpful instead of telling other students they are behind or that they are cheating just because they rolled the 3 instead of the 1.<br />
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Another trick I like to use is to give each student a homework page and have them write their words between turns. The table can get a little crowded if there is a game, homework pages, and more than 4 students, but it does help with focus on speech and language skills.<br />
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While this works for 98% of my groups, nothing is 100%. I don't use cooperative games if students are working on social skills such as sportsmanship or playing games with peers.<br />
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I hope these these tips help you with your own groups. Be sure to check back for future posts on other types of games!<br />
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-28713126779354165802017-10-16T08:00:00.000-05:002017-10-16T08:00:02.132-05:00How to Use iMovie in the Classroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My class is obsessed with our Letter of the Week iMovie productions! It's a quick and engaging way to assess your students' knowledge of letter identification, beginning sounds, and capital/lowercase differentiation. I'll show you how to use iMovie with your students. First, here's an example:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYBnJan2LpcANut0poLRjKFxb2cdrScU4_3XMmuJdJ9hhgEAMGB7bSoeuzRT-7nBftLLeskZM4PC26DutDkQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Please note that I did edit one of our class iMovies for a preview. Most iMovies contain pictures of my students.<br />
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Activities Day-by-Day: </h3>
Monday and Tuesday - Investigate the letter via books, songs, etc... Use your usual teaching tools.<br />
Pretty easy so far, huh? Nothing new needed.<br />
Wednesday and Thursday - Have your students walk around your classroom or school and take pictures of letters and objects that begin with the letter of the week. Send all of the photos via Dropbox- more on that below- and put them in whatever order you would like on iMovie.<br />
Friday: Have a viewing party and watch the iMovie. The kids will want to watch it several times.<br />
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Don't feel discouraged if you don't have a class set of iPads or any iPads at all! Just use your iPhone! The students could search for objects and raise their hand once they have found their object/letter. Then, you'd just have to send them iMovie. I did this at the beginning of the year and it worked perfectly.<br />
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How to Set Up and Use Dropbox:</h3>
For security purposes, Airdrop is turned off at my school. I have 1:1 devices in my classroom, so I share all of the photos via Dropbox. I just send them to myself during nap time or after school. You can teach your kiddos to share photos via Dropbox....IF YOU'RE BRAVE! ;)<br />
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If you don't have Dropbox, go <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/login?src=logout">here</a> to create an account. It's really easy and only takes 2 minutes max.<br />
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If you already have a Dropbox account, just make sure you sign in.<br />
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<b>How to Make a 1-Minute iMovie: </b><br />
(video)<br />
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Reasons why I love Letter of the Week iMovies:<br />
<ol>
<li>The kids are completely engaged!</li>
<li>Technology! Technology! Technology!</li>
<li>The students feel a sense of pride because they are taking ownership of their learning!</li>
<li>They get to yell, "That's what I found!" really loudly while the other students cheer.</li>
</ol>
<br />Lisa Faughthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00906847235080854398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-5570332904968765002017-10-11T19:55:00.000-05:002017-10-11T19:55:00.601-05:00Parent Conference Scheduling Made Easy! As I prepare for parent conferences, I am so thankful for the "Parent Conferencer" tab on <a href="https://www.esgisoftware.com/">ESGI</a>. I can create a schedule and print out conference letters within minutes! <div>
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Here's how you can utilize the "Parent Conferencer" tool on ESGI: </div>
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Go to the "Parent Conferencer" tab and add dates and times you would like to schedule conferences. </div>
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Click and pull student names into desired time slot. </div>
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Once all students have been placed in a time slot, click on the "Print All Letters" tab to print a conference letter to send home to parents. Each letter is generated with the students name and their conference time. *Spanish translation is also available! </div>
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When it gets closer to conference time, click the "Print All Reminders" tab and send home a reminder letter to parents. </div>
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Don't have ESGI? No problem! Try a free 60 day trial using the code B7165. You won't regret it! </div>
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Lisa Faughthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00906847235080854398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-71820306387657598772017-10-10T19:38:00.000-05:002017-11-27T19:12:06.939-06:00Progress Report Tips for SLPsAh, it's that time of the year. Therapy is rolling along, referrals are on a steady pace, it feels like whatever "balance" is might actually be achievable, and then the REMINDER on the calendar pops up - END OF REPORTING PERIOD. And suddenly, the prospect of writing multiple progress reports makes us lie on the ground in the fetal position. To help with your sanity, and to keep people from wondering why the SLP is speechless, we've rounded up a few tips to help SLPs get through progress reports.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Progress-Report-Covers-for-SLPs-2742590" target="_blank"><img alt=" " border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" data-pin-nopin="nopin" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_x8zqrMo5yIOPnsrCVAM1mvfgdUhYbg3UCgP2b0hA6y_T7hCR26GgFT2DvO9zf1pcvIclYssLx0DraPDyf_0KCIhSsZxLkwrMogG6CIOtQQTHYBVBrXKa6EWcZrVRyD4915rd9VIheh-/s320/Progress+ReportTips.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Plan Ahead</h3>
I know, easier said than done. Try creating calendar reminders as a countdown, as in "2 weeks until reporting period ends", "1 week until reporting period ends", etc. Just plant a seed in your mind. You don't have to do anything with the reminder, unless you want to. It's kind of like allowing for a snooze (or few) on your morning alarm. When the final reminder of "Reporting Period Ends TODAY" comes up, you'll be less frantic.<br />
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<h3>
Check the Data</h3>
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At least two weeks before progress reports, take a quick look at the data for each student. Don't analyze the data. This should take no more than a few seconds for each student. Quickly make a list of students you need data for before writing the progress reports. Maybe a student has been absent due to sickness, or a student moved in mid-reporting period, or you yourself were out. This fast glance will tell you which students you need some good hard data before the due date. And yes, I've learned this the hard way for multiple reporting periods.</div>
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<h3>
Prioritize</h3>
Consider writing progress reports for students who have services in addition to speech first. The Sp Ed teachers will thank you. If your data is already in the progress reports when the Sp Ed teacher is ready to print them, they might kiss your feet. Not really, but this act will go a looong way in working with them.<br />
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<h3>
It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint</h3>
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Chunk your assignment. How many reports can you reasonably write at one time? Is it a time limit, like 30 minutes? I tend to write my progress reports by groups. For example, I try to get through at least 3 groups at a time. Or complete all the reports for the morning groups, take a break, then concentrate on the afternoon groups. </div>
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<h3>
Make Sure Your Hard Work is Seen</h3>
You've done the therapy, the data collection, and written the progress reports. Make sure the right people get the progress reports, whether it's the teacher, parent/guardian, or student.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Progress-Report-Covers-for-SLPs-2742590" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" data-pin-nopin="nopin" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9bdKIfEHc7bkoymYAaA8zg-89Zr0oEzSjHEzDy50K36XUHjpa8iH11Ao8Gx7qd3H7nG1Bx1zSzj9YnMkqA7dNkouSvkpj-tUYiWLZp9yomvsINEBleKP0N164UWEQBf6BkvfwrhPxQIBy/s320/progress+reports.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The progress reports I am required to use have tiny print. They are not user-friendly for reading. To solve the problem of distributing the progress reports, I use <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Progress-Report-Covers-for-SLPs-2742590" target="_blank">Progress Report Covers for SLPs</a>. These are templates, and they are editable! I download one the pages, type in the common information (date, my name, and school/district). Then, I run off a bunch of the covers and write in the student's name and grade/teacher. The progress report covers are ready to staple on top of the progress reports! Parents/guardians and teachers have user-friendly print to know that the progress report is included.<br />
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<h3>
Reward Yourself!</h3>
Progress reports are hard work. Treat yo self! And give yourself a big ole' pat on the back!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Progress-Report-Covers-for-SLPs-2742590" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" data-pin-description="This blog post offers practical tips for getting speech therapy progress reports DONE. Make sure your data collection and hard work is communicated to parents/guardians, teachers, or students." height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgcikyqfjDi12DtRh08vAmJUu3HG7pXel62RuFOnol9fqGmdYFrPYXpbkdQrvMGjbajRKNRya-SAntYba5tcrDQD4QUWAFo0j6vNU0G8jE5IVguaB_ribfcGw0QYBMsdaJeIF_M5GGFR-s/s320/oatmeal+cookies+%25281%2529.png" width="213" /></a></div>
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<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-64980428742952065262017-08-19T18:39:00.000-05:002017-09-29T17:02:47.844-05:00My Therapy Room Challenge - A New School and $25<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFozYfT-M4-horjkzF9Xhk8NX8ClZbHQAbFsLVjQT1AU19_Dy1gV5ecZiFfQi_6nzaYPeAi86VSBl-bjIrSQNi1qV52GxICJM-SuhivalALjme4yihxR9xCOSX5FSef-dtzZ88C_LHPfB9/s1600/Setting+Up.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFozYfT-M4-horjkzF9Xhk8NX8ClZbHQAbFsLVjQT1AU19_Dy1gV5ecZiFfQi_6nzaYPeAi86VSBl-bjIrSQNi1qV52GxICJM-SuhivalALjme4yihxR9xCOSX5FSef-dtzZ88C_LHPfB9/s400/Setting+Up.png" data-pin-nopin="nopin"
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A summer of bathroom remodeling and getting my own children ready for college left my wallet a little empty. When I got my official assignment 20 days before students returned <i>and</i> found out I would be moving, I quickly realized a needed a budget. $25 it was!<br />
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The school's space is pretty nice. It will hold me, a licensed assistant (M), and student groups. The first thing I did was review <a href="http://www.allyallneed.com/2016/08/6-tips-for-setting-up-your-therapy-room.html" target="_blank">tips for setting up rooms</a>. My goals were to make it student-centered and functional.<br />
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Note: I will be serving two schools. I'm showing you one room right now. It's nicely located in the center of the school, so it <i>had</i> to be ready for Meet the Teacher Night. The room at the other school is larger and in a portable, so I'm still working on it.<br />
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When I first set up the room, M didn't think it had the right "energy". We angled the horseshoe table in front of the mirror. Students will sit on <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/24286205/" target="_blank">IKEA stools</a>. They are so much better than chairs, and the wooden stools are lasting much longer than <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10135659/" target="_blank">the metal stools</a> I tried 2 years ago. Another IKEA product - <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80275887/" target="_blank">the storage shelf</a> - is within reach during therapy sessions to save time.<br />
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The items in the picture are things I already had, so the cost so far is a whopping $0!<br />
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This is the beginning of my 25th year. I have <i>stuff</i>. After purging, we filled up the bookshelves already in the room. The materials still looked distracting, so all of my budget went to fixing that. I found <a href="http://www.biglots.com/product/white-curtain-rods-2-pack-28-48-/p350033829?N=1061111087&pos=1:5" target="_blank">tension rods at Big Lots</a> for $2.25 each and <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Boardwalk-Fabric-13-Piece-Shower-Curtain-Set/52639512" target="_blank">fabric shower curtains with hooks included</a> at Wal-Mart for $9.88 each. I'm not crazy about the pattern, but they will do for this year. Total cost - $24.26.<br />
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To make the shower curtains fit, we doubled them over on the tension rods and hot-glued the bottom hems.<br />
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Next to the shelves are therapy cards in shoe holders. The pockets are labeled.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCa8j7uZoKOGfkQ-lvj50dhmyurKYEaNjeq2nDlTk2VH-qZWC0bOQG6CB7W4L0jRqfu2AyK3ZOd4JM_qn9N_-hXLjv8pqYzma4FA3lyi4k8voVYcijRUtUdnMSiW3ysgUNArvFSvCCNXRq/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" data-pin-nopin="nopin" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCa8j7uZoKOGfkQ-lvj50dhmyurKYEaNjeq2nDlTk2VH-qZWC0bOQG6CB7W4L0jRqfu2AyK3ZOd4JM_qn9N_-hXLjv8pqYzma4FA3lyi4k8voVYcijRUtUdnMSiW3ysgUNArvFSvCCNXRq/s400/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Other areas include the desk:<br />
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The <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/RosanneMedlin/info/home" target="_blank">thirty-one bag</a> holds my PLS-5 manipulatives so I can grab it and go. The phone and electrical plugs are to the bottom left of the desk. Notice the fan? I'll be using that while M operates her personal heater.<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lightbox-Inserts-for-SLPs-2609116" target="_blank"><img alt=" Lightbox Inserts for SLPs by All Y'all Need" border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="408" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfGyy2rDp6H22fwUfJEicMuQnb2iwwmyq5WhS14pYPknXbNisMBkaCqG9i-xt5NeaLuJhLUZCQpavj0yC2qQ-kD9w4-gCX1PneP2bojMa4ibFA5b3fg2OSzi44sSxemu6lazPgoxKK6Ao/s400/IMG_5478.JPG" data-pin-nopin="nopin"
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Of course, we have a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lightbox-Inserts-for-SLPs-2609116" target="_blank">welcome sign</a> that will change each month and lots of books. Organization of the books comes courtesy of my librarian sister, Amy.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">NOTE: Amazon links are affiliate links, which means that if you should choose to click on them and buy an item, we may get a percentage of the sale at no cost to you.</span><br />
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And how wonderful is the school's theme - Happy Campers?!?! Upon my cousin Lisa's recommendation, I bought <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014CD1XYW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B014CD1XYW&linkId=80d5ed994261e28fd64ead64252aec09" target="_blank">fadeless paper</a> and a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LWURYT0/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=allyallneed-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LWURYT0&linkId=7c74355e02305f73a3fd4e08b84a2e03" target="_blank">bunting</a> from Amazon. I'm sure you're wondering how I bought those for 74 cents. I used some Amazon reward points, and I already had the chevron ribbon and an IKEA frame, so this cost me nothing!<br />
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I'm super happy with our room. It's student-centered, functional, looks nice while still having space, is welcoming without being over-decorated, <i>and</i> it's within budget!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-76456679835938752812017-08-10T07:00:00.000-05:002017-08-19T18:40:41.715-05:00Back to School with ESGI: How Classroom Setup is a Breeze with the Classroom Management Tool<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">As I set up my classroom, I can't help but think about all of the labels I need to create for my new students.... Come on class list!!!! However, I rest assured because ESGI totally has all of my labels covered. The Classroom Management Tool saves me so much time! Here's how: </span><br />
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First, Sign Up for ESGI:</h3>
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<li style="list-style: disc !important; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.esgisoftware.com/ESGI/?promo=B7165" style="color: #2d71df; max-width: calc(880px); outline: none; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.2s ease 0s;">Sign up for the ESGI 60 day trial</a> (use the code <b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 11.5pt;">B7165)</span></b></li>
<li style="list-style: disc !important; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">Add your students </li>
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<span style="color: #2d71df; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 27px;">Here's How ESGI Can Save You HOURS During Classroom Setup: </span></div>
<span style="color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Y'all, the classroom management tool is going to be your best friend. After plugging in your student names, look what all the Classroom Management Tool automatically generates! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.5px;">(Click on the image below to watch an overview of the Classroom Management Tool)</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.esgisoftware.com/classroom-management-tool"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="250" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25yHUfnpnbSisQjyze4aJ5YpTEP5e4yYk4CqR1jFGw7u761D7KvbYeOWJNxbM8tKg8iope64BfRYtpx8BGoWwPGV8AXXZIwQTjTlmKGltRN09tIl89r3WyoMBnJvTsrc7kswedVeADjM/s320/CMT+Name+Reports.png" width="215" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Here are some helpful demos of how to use the Classroom Management Tool: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: 9pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Class Management Tool:</span><br />
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<a href="https://youtu.be/S--2jMn4rT4" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://youtu.be/S--2jMn4rT4</span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">CMT Cubby Names Report Printing: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: blue; font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: 9pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBhayuyPtks" style="text-decoration: none;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBhayuyPtk</a></span></div>
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Look how great these look! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWceTUF86bhZHXKXw34I1v2zzZw2IXwPvalfQlmAHxkyKyiyaXE4QvZXsRVNfyxXTLmIJvLkA51oiIlW9jp_edGeXebp9eGQE0Yov4522RgzmxS-GzCGnMsnEmSWF5oSzekEGGgB4GY8/s1600/CMT+Name+Cards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="434" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWceTUF86bhZHXKXw34I1v2zzZw2IXwPvalfQlmAHxkyKyiyaXE4QvZXsRVNfyxXTLmIJvLkA51oiIlW9jp_edGeXebp9eGQE0Yov4522RgzmxS-GzCGnMsnEmSWF5oSzekEGGgB4GY8/s320/CMT+Name+Cards.png" width="203" /></a></div>
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Pricing:</h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">The first 60 days are FREE! Just sign up for the 60 day trial!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">After you have fallen in love with this assessment tool, the usual yearly subscription fee is $199.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">But, I have a code that will make this product $159 instead!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Just enter the code: </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">B7165</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"> to save $40</span><br />
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ESGI is also doing a HUGE Back to School Giveaway! </h3>
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Here's How to Sign Up:</h3>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Sign up for a free trial using our code B7165 and you will be entered into a raffle to win one of ten $50 Amazon Cards!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Sign up for the free trial! You won't regret it!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #404040; font-family: "source sans pro" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">Have a great school year!</span>Lisa Faughthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00906847235080854398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-35762963907613023122017-07-23T08:00:00.000-05:002017-07-23T08:00:20.571-05:00Why I Love Summer.... <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_BN-yOxL8JrIqIR-zCvnJyjZmtxqdhkXEfbeNKWdtXGhyphenhyphenbs34FFrlF-TT1BYd3r_gVyLEXaZMhnjEX_dxXGM0meQKhmfaZC8syCL4sfXVZYhDPyphzbOZYOb9SGEn92skngaLaRQe9Y/s1600/I.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1_BN-yOxL8JrIqIR-zCvnJyjZmtxqdhkXEfbeNKWdtXGhyphenhyphenbs34FFrlF-TT1BYd3r_gVyLEXaZMhnjEX_dxXGM0meQKhmfaZC8syCL4sfXVZYhDPyphzbOZYOb9SGEn92skngaLaRQe9Y/s640/I.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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You might be waiting for me to say, "I love summer because I get to sleep in, go to the bathroom when I want, and travel." While those are MOST DEFINITELY TRUE, my favorite part of summer is that I get to reignite my passion for teaching and my kids.<br />
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<br />Here's how I recharge my batteries:</h2>
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Catch up on reading</h3>
I try to do all of my "teacher book" reading in the summer. I really want to devote my entire focus to digging into content and figuring out how I can use the content in my classroom to help my kids. So far, my favorite books have been <a href="http://www.kidsdeserveit.com/">Kids Deserve It!</a> by Adam Welcome and Todd Nesloney and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Engaging-Young-Writers-Preschool-Grade-1/dp/032501745X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500779440&sr=8-1&keywords=engaging+young+writers">Engaging Young Writers, Preschool - Grade 1</a> by Matt Glover. I'm currently co-hosting a book study with some coworkers via Facebook and I can't even begin to describe how inspired I have been by all of the ideas and passionate conversations happening.<br />
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Have meaningful conversations with passionate people</h3>
While in Vegas, I had dinner with some very dear friends, Greg and Jason from <a href="https://thekindergartensmorgasboard.com/">The Kindergarten Smorgasboard</a>, and two new acquaintances, Joyce and Eric from <a href="https://www.sitspots.com/">SitSpots</a>. I honestly have to say, it was a dinner I will never forget. We talked about life, our passion for teaching, hard work and funny stories of "being in the trenches" of our classrooms. I also heard the story of how SitSpots came to be.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAcch8c0R9j6bQhDplXX8Adb6EXWzlC6pKBS_HrECRKLsJf138VQUAm7-vPViDnzjAmNQr8ls4DvhNzJksOcMXZ3av2M1PFufDOvqHA52XYOAQw0ZOkfg8wvP6v_9bp0QF0EFSlve1OA/s1600/IMG_1169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1054" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAcch8c0R9j6bQhDplXX8Adb6EXWzlC6pKBS_HrECRKLsJf138VQUAm7-vPViDnzjAmNQr8ls4DvhNzJksOcMXZ3av2M1PFufDOvqHA52XYOAQw0ZOkfg8wvP6v_9bp0QF0EFSlve1OA/s640/IMG_1169.jpg" width="419" /></a></div>
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See the people my Mom calls "My internet friends." 😜</h3>
My cousin, Amy, and I just got back from the TPT conference in Anaheim, California. We had such a blast connecting with old friends and making new ones. Every time I go to a conference, I come back energized and my passion for making a difference is reignited.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76MJRrhDwx9mwX44LHXw-Y1WJlSpkiEYpiW-wq4UVo1pkl4dYc8Q6v1qtry17IrIxsYOWg8L28Fmgmh2lygDJqjFMctWEz4W98F5HR5YWbNhNnqDhtEur1k4CYfqZ9wyWgGLfIds05VM/s1600/GRAND.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="945" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh76MJRrhDwx9mwX44LHXw-Y1WJlSpkiEYpiW-wq4UVo1pkl4dYc8Q6v1qtry17IrIxsYOWg8L28Fmgmh2lygDJqjFMctWEz4W98F5HR5YWbNhNnqDhtEur1k4CYfqZ9wyWgGLfIds05VM/s640/GRAND.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This summer, I've also spent some time catching up and working with Amy and Laura. I love this crazy journey of blogging, tpt, laughing, joking, social media-ing we are on together! I wouldn't trade it for the world!!! While summer may be winding down, I hope everyone has had a chance to rest, reflect, and recharge!<br />
<br />Lisa Faughthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00906847235080854398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-30140017270299779032017-05-23T07:00:00.000-05:002017-05-25T15:10:31.766-05:00How to Use Inflatable Dice in Speech & Language TherapyWe are so excited to be taking over <a href="https://www.instagram.com/targetteachers/?hl=en" target="_blank">Target Teachers</a> today! If that's new to you, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/targetteachers/?hl=en" target="_blank">Target Teachers</a> is an Instagram account for educators who loooove Target - which should include about 98.9879% of you.<br />
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I'm always looking in the Target Dollar Spot for therapy activities. These inflatable dice looked like a lot of fun! I'll be sharing with you how to play a life-sized game with them, and it only takes about 7 minutes to set up (with 5 of those minutes being blowing up the dice)! So for about 2 minutes of prep and less than $10, I made a game that several of my students called "the best ever!"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJAtzva3NdOBqwB5xrBjjnOXyHq1UHTQmWsUHASEO2tp2NOK6ko9DLyL_jglG6b-A7jd05pTMdgAbnnIiokhTZxN1jtrdenHVbKjmJhjC85Xr3waxD471oxab0EQ4608NcZSD6kv195CL/s1600/MakeaLife-Sized+Game.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Use inflatable dice and sidewalk squares to make the students themselves a game marker in speech and language therapy!" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJAtzva3NdOBqwB5xrBjjnOXyHq1UHTQmWsUHASEO2tp2NOK6ko9DLyL_jglG6b-A7jd05pTMdgAbnnIiokhTZxN1jtrdenHVbKjmJhjC85Xr3waxD471oxab0EQ4608NcZSD6kv195CL/s320/MakeaLife-Sized+Game.png" title="Play a Life-Sized Game by All Y'all Need" width="213" /></a></div>
Requirements:<br />
* inflatable dice - 4 10-inch dice come in the $5 pack from Target<br />
* <a href="http://www.target.com/p/yoobi-easy-grip-chalk-holder-with-chalk-with-1-chalk-holder-and-5-pc-of-chalk-multicolor-6pk/-/A-51459589" target="_blank">sidewalk chalk</a> - the sidewalk chalk is also from Target - I bought it in the toy section. It has a holder for people who don't like sidewalk-chalk-dust fingers, like me.<br />
* a clipboard for data pages<br />
* cards for each student. All of my cards are on a binder ring. These artic cards are from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Artic-Pix-R-S-L-2232543" target="_blank">Gold Country SLP.</a> Each student was responsible for carrying and flipping through their own cards.<br />
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Optional: an <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20271892/" target="_blank">IKEA cart</a> to hold everything<br />
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To set up:<br />
* go outside, use the existing sidewalk squares or hopscotch squares for game squares, and write START in the first block and END in the last block.<br />
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Seriously, it's that easy. I mean, you could go all out and decorate squares and add go forward and move back spaces, but it's not necessary. It would be really cute, but I only used START and END, and the game was a hit.<br />
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After a student practices a skill, the die is rolled and the student moves that many spaces forward. That's it. And the kids love being the actual game!<br />
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I did learn a few things.<br />
1) One of the inflatable dice had a hole that I could never quite completely cover, so only 3 of the 4 dice worked. If this is a concern, buy more than one package of dice.<br />
2) The dice are pretty round when blown up and do roll more than I thought they would.<br />
2) The two days I did this were pretty windy. I ended up having the students toss the dice to me as I stood about a foot away. I twirled the dice, tossed it back, and whatever number their right thumb was on was the number they "rolled".<br />
3) Of course, one student will roll all 6's and be the first one through. To slow that down, the students had to roll the exact number to get to the END. So if they were two spaces away and rolled a 4, they couldn't move and had to continue to take turns until they rolled a 1 or 2.<br />
4) And to add to that, one student will be lucky and finish quickly. I had my students continue to take turns and give their rolls to another student. IDEA: You could use this for behavior, as in having the finished student give their roll to the quietest student, the one standing in their space the whole time, etc.<br />
5) If you need to stretch out the game, students could move backwards. So if a student needs a 2 to get to the END and rolls a 4, they have to move BACK 4 spaces.<br />
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After we played the game, students wanted to play it again, said it was the best game all year, and asked to play it the next session. I sincerely hope this helps your students!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-72859441199928625752017-02-05T13:00:00.000-06:002017-02-05T13:52:28.198-06:00Sharing Kindness, The SLP Way!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Be nice to your secretaries and custodians."</div>
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That's my advice to every CF and grad student I've supervised.</div>
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It may seem weird. They are probably expecting pearls of wisdom about working with mixed groups, how to implement behavior management, or encouragement or affirmation.</div>
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And I just toss out those words - "Be nice to your secretaries and custodians."</div>
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They are the words my own mother told me 23 years ago. They've held true.</div>
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Today, I'm focusing on the unsung heroes in schools - the custodians. They clean for not very much money. And they clean yucky stuff. That alone is enough to boost them up on the pedestal. They will do so much more for you. Last year, a glass-framed picture above my chalkboard fell to the floor. I don't know how. It was up when I left in the afternoon and then laying shattered on the floor when I returned the next morning. I went to borrow a vacuum. The custodian wouldn't give me her closet keys - instead, she left her breakfast post to vacuum for me. And when I forgot to take the frame home to try to fix it, another custodian fixed it for me and hung it back up. Custodians have our backs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVa9nyN06khKQqb4tqq02vQllEZ3fv6HXd6M4NFk2HiXCa-ybEYwPOIe4P_69zukwMacoOE16wVxWk4TgumjA1XsOhgMbLE36pU5gt0sn3EaM6oJhg0FE7y8vfo_wiokYPlLTs6ffiX9Sc/s1600/ways.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVa9nyN06khKQqb4tqq02vQllEZ3fv6HXd6M4NFk2HiXCa-ybEYwPOIe4P_69zukwMacoOE16wVxWk4TgumjA1XsOhgMbLE36pU5gt0sn3EaM6oJhg0FE7y8vfo_wiokYPlLTs6ffiX9Sc/s400/ways.png" width="266" /></a></div>
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Here are 5 tips that don't cost anything and go a long way in establishing a relationship.</div>
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1) Learn your custodians' names</h3>
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Say hello and good-bye with their names. Say "thank you" with their names. It's common courtesy, but it is so appreciated.</div>
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2) Show interest in the custodians</h3>
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If I have their children or grandchildren, that's a powerful common bond. And it seems to mean a lot when I ask about their children who are older and are in secondary or even graduates.</div>
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3) Place the trashcan next to the door</h3>
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If I have to set it closer to the other side of the room for an activity, I try to remember to move it back before trash pick-up. Seriously, they are emptying so many trashcans. I can try to make it a little easier for them.</div>
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4) Show the custodians respect in front of students</h3>
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Point out how we need to use the rugs to clean our shoes so we can help keep the floors clean. Teach students the names of custodians as part of back-to-school or vocabulary activities. Say hello to the custodians in the hallways.</div>
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5) Share with the custodians</h3>
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For example, I don't keep play-dough over the summer because it gets hot and melty. Instead, I offer it the custodians, who are usually more than willing to take it to their children and grandchildren. I learned sharing the hard way when I threw away an empty gift basket. I didn't think anything about it. The next day, the custodian approached me shyly with the basket and asked if she could have it. Now, after cleaning out my room at the end of the year, I keep a stash and give first dibs to the custodians before putting it in the "share pile."</div>
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And here's a bonus: DON'T WALK ON THE FRESHLY WAXED FLOORS. OBEY THE "DO NOT ENTER" SIGNS</h3>
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If you work in a school, you know what I mean. If you are new, follow this rule. No questions. Even if you go to school when no one is there, you will be tracked down and become the subject of an email sent to the whole school. Even worse, you'll be on the custodians' bad list. You really don't want that.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And now, here's some kindness for you from the <span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.24px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thefrenziedSLPs/" target="_blank">Frenzied SLPs</a>! We are sharing kindness this month the way we know best! We have collaborated to create FREE materials for use with your students centered around a kindness theme. Target a variety of speech and language skills with these products!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.24px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; letter-spacing: -0.24px;"><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pronouns-Places-and-Possessives-Kindness-2998208" target="_blank">Pronouns, Places and Possessives: Kindness</a> focuses on friendships and working together in the classroom while also targeting pronouns, prepositions, and possessive /s/. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit; letter-spacing: -0.24px;">Check out The Frenzied SLPs Sharing Kindness Blog Hop for more freebies by starting at </span><a href="http://www.talkinwithtwang.com/2017/02/slps-sharing-kindness-with-freebie.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="letter-spacing: -0.24px;">T</span></span>alkin' with Twang</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit; letter-spacing: -0.24px;">.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.talkinwithtwang.com/2017/02/slps-sharing-kindness-with-freebie.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" The Frenzied SLPs Kindness Blog Hop" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-aTeIhBps6ieJOl0zX32yAOdtr0vi_P2TEmOCQQsEbP4eyN5lh_AjFqd7dRJa0AmmSbkaE68ebxGXtJ0lbK3MfaFjjiufDe84WXWiG_ei0KCBW5p14a1vXrbsjxPsHN6iw72D3DTUi5wE/s200/16266062_1850981978492320_4458506235105447462_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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To continue with the hop, click below to go to <a href="http://www.speechsproutstherapy.com/2017/02/sharing-kindness-and-freebies-sweet.html" target="_blank">Speech Sprouts.</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.speechsproutstherapy.com/2017/02/sharing-kindness-and-freebies-sweet.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiXkXgqaHJnvaFR5cs3Z_PZ12HjdEfaZ56N78N87SWRy8PBSK3sp_dWAu2gC_PNFueIGC5XjE0nAd2L8UPV6DZ7vyV8DQ_85axF23jhbrf2FjiyVtQOuwgsmdcbeJfy5SHMLEL8vqnAKz/s200/16143123_1850982011825650_8538627540432070373_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We graciously thank you for downloading and using these materials with your students/clients. If you would be so kind, please leave feedback in our TPT stores if you find a few spare moments!</span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-9600235041296035982017-01-16T18:00:00.000-06:002017-01-16T18:00:12.203-06:00SLP Commitments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwshhPRh2oJ_VBq_n1idQX6Dpi20QgVGSon6JoVNfQ1sBJAxmlFH6kwF_IN9hMD6b5dns0l2rERaaXKBjXstuxonAaMatP9U1PHNv_GUZ98xvev-U9FfoDUErWErXW-MEOq71x3Xo30i6h/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-01-15+at+5.54.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwshhPRh2oJ_VBq_n1idQX6Dpi20QgVGSon6JoVNfQ1sBJAxmlFH6kwF_IN9hMD6b5dns0l2rERaaXKBjXstuxonAaMatP9U1PHNv_GUZ98xvev-U9FfoDUErWErXW-MEOq71x3Xo30i6h/s400/Screen+Shot+2017-01-15+at+5.54.39+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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SLP Commitments. They can be so overwhelming. IEPs, testing, therapy, supervision - the list goes on and on. And between the demands of my district, my schools, ASHA, my state requirements, and my own personal standards, I could be exhausted - and it's only January...</div>
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This year, I commit to NOT STRIVING FOR BALANCE. Huh? No balance? All work? Not exactly.</div>
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I've determined that balance does NOT exist. How can I work towards balance if I don't know what my end result should be?</div>
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I will follow all of the guidelines to the best of my ability. I will keep students and their needs first. I will do my best to make all timelines. I will strive to serve, treat, and comply. To clarify, I have an experienced and wonderful licensed assistant. My caseload is more than some of yours, less than others. It doesn't matter because it's what I'm assigned. And it's enough that I can roughly follow 8 hours of work, with some days being more. I refuse to take work home - I'll stay later at school - because home is home.</div>
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I'm not a perfect SLP, wife, mom or daughter or person. I can't be. I can try my best to live out this life God has given me. For me, life is not perfect balance. It's more real, some things happening more than others at different times. Instead of striving for balance, I'm going with God's will for my life. He's a lot smarter than me.</div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01417166482896671957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-71221169163945851482016-12-16T07:00:00.000-06:002016-12-16T07:00:24.345-06:00Elementary Entourage Secret Santa Blog Hop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0xPBs3ggOfMRIPw1BdcDW8amJ0jom86Qb_Fin6B6BUnamnWyPk-l0eS4WIGDBvvNbgQo2tFjZwKiSYOCtvGqC9VMgWsf6I-Bsao63BmgOH7wjLi4mRacXkaumTwIoeHuFZRsvFypa4w/s1600/15541257_10103910102545218_7985708311296904765_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0xPBs3ggOfMRIPw1BdcDW8amJ0jom86Qb_Fin6B6BUnamnWyPk-l0eS4WIGDBvvNbgQo2tFjZwKiSYOCtvGqC9VMgWsf6I-Bsao63BmgOH7wjLi4mRacXkaumTwIoeHuFZRsvFypa4w/s400/15541257_10103910102545218_7985708311296904765_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I can hear the bells.... </h2>
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The Christmas break school bells that is!</h2>
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I must say, I LOVE this time of year! I love the excitement, activities and everything December entails. Over the past few weeks, my PreK team has been very busy little elves. To celebrate all of their hard work, I've gathered some goodies that I know they'll love. On Black Friday, Amy, Laura & I went shopping at Bath & Body Works. They had a buy 3 get 3 free special going on that made our teacher hearts very happy! Needless to say, we filled up several bags. </div>
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I plan on giving my team, office staff and janitors Christmas scented soap with a very cute tag attached. The best part is.... I'm sharing to tag with you! Just click the image below to download this freebie: </div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0egAZdOQFFuTlgzT2dkdFFLOGc/view?usp=sharing"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjM8mZQ3XWEg3tU1jQqibP_ksXp91ZcJtXyAxZcN_jgGyz2n3bASSjb-GDxb3lPuUKp9khkj-0DQtxKKhnhyphenhyphen4CnMK_xpnXuQ9axbvWopEdqrlua5A5lG_FnxOxvdjR4ZgHHslCN9Wb40/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-12-15+at+9.04.11+PM.png" width="226" /></a></div>
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We have also put our ENTIRE store on SALE for two days! Head on over to our neck of the TPT woods to check out some great deals!</div>
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Click on our logo to go to our store: </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/All-Yall-Need"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDne2hEmUIA0u6wwGWMjQQVZYiLC0923h-GJdX31nogiV63e6PgGVQ8mnXTs6ILtuT815IKbv98XG_RcqAEK7hgiH6ZGWRHfpY68GNzdQVMwS1W0H5go75VdAAdRulaRgTJV_ju_oi8NI/s200/Button+Large+copy.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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The past few weeks have been a whirlwind and I am definitely running on caffeine and Christmas spirit. Stay strong my friends! The break is almost here!!!</div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Lisa Faughthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00906847235080854398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3157330691006869297.post-82589737138955986312016-12-15T18:47:00.000-06:002016-12-15T18:47:17.322-06:00Christmas Mint and Free Tag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPociBiaXOjgHZceuiSf4g8bXlnEWQ26DpvLvToILhunWqPccXEo4E_WH94xk72sGiHI8VIDewxe-dZD2-2BtljgYaZKxOFQzT427HnYuNwUWxULhNJPFj-LKx1M50kZFLsITKIJ5Thlmk/s1600/Mint+%253D+Joy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPociBiaXOjgHZceuiSf4g8bXlnEWQ26DpvLvToILhunWqPccXEo4E_WH94xk72sGiHI8VIDewxe-dZD2-2BtljgYaZKxOFQzT427HnYuNwUWxULhNJPFj-LKx1M50kZFLsITKIJ5Thlmk/s400/Mint+%253D+Joy.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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When your coworkers are your friends, you like to treat them extra special at Christmas.</div>
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This year Laura, Lisa and I quickly dashed over to <a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/" target="_blank">Bath & Body Works</a> <i>amazing</i> buy 3, get 3 free sale on Black Friday.</div>
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We scored BIG time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpSnXUKQRW8X30NPvH1jDt-zyW5HLsqI-O8dnKeLxRm5fk-3hyphenhyphenDo62vGhnX1Gh9vVSinJz43FPAXthELyOctVPTk0_Cl10L9FCssKavCWzZMMoqH6V8Qnr88i63lgzYqqaHuq_gEpIIYC/s1600/SparklingMint+Blossom+Soap.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpSnXUKQRW8X30NPvH1jDt-zyW5HLsqI-O8dnKeLxRm5fk-3hyphenhyphenDo62vGhnX1Gh9vVSinJz43FPAXthELyOctVPTk0_Cl10L9FCssKavCWzZMMoqH6V8Qnr88i63lgzYqqaHuq_gEpIIYC/s400/SparklingMint+Blossom+Soap.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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If Mint equals Joy for you, <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B6XMrIPIox8IZjFlcFBaaWsyMTA" target="_blank">click here to download the tag</a>.</div>
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Merry Christmas to All!</div>
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<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14880566999510076915noreply@blogger.com0