Join us in celebrating the unsung heroes of education – paraprofessionals! 🌟 In this episode of Be The Exception, we're diving into creative ideas to show appreciation for these invaluable members of our team on their special day, April 3rd. Because we all know we can’t make it without them! Learn about the history of Paraprofessional Appreciation Day and why it's essential to recognize their contributions. Discover practical ways to express gratitude and appreciation for paraprofessionals in your school or classroom. Gain insights into the vital role paraprofessionals play in supporting special education teachers and students, and how to effectively collaborate with them. Get inspired to create a culture of appreciation and teamwork in your educational community. Tune in now to learn how to make Paraprofessional Appreciation Day a memorable and meaningful celebration in your school or classroom. Don't forget to subscribe to Be The Exception for more tips, insights, and inspiration! Links and Resources Paraprofessional Stickers Paraprofessional T-Shirts and Sweatshirts Paraprofessional Appreciation Day Blog Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In this episode of Be The Exception, I am exploring creative and impactful activities for promoting autism acceptance in schools and classrooms. From sensory-friendly events to interactive learning experiences. There are practical strategies and inspiring ideas for creating inclusive environments where every individual feels valued and celebrated. Tune in to discover how you can make a difference and be the exception in special education! In this episode you will learn: Bulletin Board ideas for the month of April Sensory Activities for everyone Interactive Storytime ideas Links and Resources Autism Acceptance Ideas Blog The Exceptional Collective Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Spring is always a super busy time for me as a special education teacher, with what feels like one million IEP meetings. If I go into this time of year unprepared, unorganized, it just makes it that much more difficult. Doing a little work before my meetings makes all the difference in the world. In this week’s episode, I am sharing 10 essential pre-meeting steps for special education teachers. Doing these small steps before will save you so much time later on. In this episode you will learn: 10 things you can do before your IEP meeting with the parent Ideas to go into the meeting organized so you can run the meeting like a champ How to establish clear objectives for the meeting beforehand so you don’t get off topic Links and Resources 7 Steps to Running a Smooth IEP Meeting IEP Surveys (Parent and Teacher) Special Education Starter Kit - Master that IEP Paperwork The Special Educator Survival Guide Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

As we approach World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, we're excited to shine a light on Down syndrome and celebrate the beautiful diversity of individuals with Down syndrome. Join us on a special episode of the "Be The Exception In Special Education" podcast as we explore ways to promote inclusion, spread awareness, and make a difference in our classrooms and communities. In this episode, we'll dive into fascinating facts about Down syndrome, creative ways to bring awareness, engaging activities for inclusion, the importance of fostering an inclusive environment, and recommended books for raising awareness. From wearing wacky socks to hosting awareness events, there are countless ways to show support and spread kindness on World Down Syndrome Day. Introduction to World Down Syndrome Day and its significance in promoting inclusion and diversity. Overview of the podcast episode structure, including facts about Down syndrome, ways to bring awareness, engaging activities for inclusion, the importance of inclusion, and recommended books for awareness. Detailed discussion of each section, highlighting key points and actionable steps for educators to promote inclusivity in their classrooms and communities. Emphasis on the importance of celebrating diversity and spreading kindness on World Down Syndrome Day. Encouragement for listeners to explore the recommended resources and continue learning about Down syndrome awareness. Want to learn more? Check out our latest blog post for additional resources and inspiration to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day in your classroom or community. Let's come together to celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and make a positive impact on World Down Syndrome Day. Tune in to the "Be The Exception In Special Education" podcast and join us in spreading kindness and acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome. For more information, check out our blog post: Shining a Light on Down Syndrome Awareness Together, let's make this World Down Syndrome Day one to remember! Links and Resources Exceptional Collective March Bundle for the Special Education Classroom Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In today's show, we're diving into the world of March-themed activities tailored specifically for special education classrooms. From St. Patrick's Day crafts to springtime science experiments, we've got you covered with creative ideas to keep your students engaged and inspired. In this episode you will learn: Different activities/crafts for St. Patrick’s Day Different spring science experiments that are made for the special education classroom About some of my favorite books for this time of year. So, grab your lucky charms and get ready to make this March unforgettable! Links and Resources March Bundle of Resources Special Education Teacher Tees The Exceptional Collective - Your all in one place for all things special education! Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

There are so many misconceptions in the world of behavior..are rewards a bribe? Does the student just not like me? Why am I not seeing improvements even though I am doing everything “right”? How do we overcome these misconceptions so that we can truly make a difference in our classrooms in terms of behaviors? In this week’s episode, I am chatting with Chelsea Marelle about how to target and improve behavior supports in the special education classroom. She is an expert in the behavior world and has so many ideas and strategies that work. In this episode you will learn: Why you should reinforce a lot, especially in the beginning. What the behavior means. How to not take it personally, yes, it’s hard! How to set clear expectations and boundaries. Links and Resources Behavior Support Resources on TpT Connect with Chelsea Chelsea’s Instagram Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Aggressive, and sometimes confrontational, parents is a thing that at some point in your career you will have to deal with. This type of parent can make it where IEPs cannot be successful and keep the student’s best interest at the front and center. In this week’s episode, we are sharing with you 8 easy tips for dealing with aggressive, confrontational parents. In this episode you will learn: How to build relationships with challenging parents before the meeting The importance of getting parent input before the meeting so you can determine any concerns ahead of time How to design the meeting with the smallest number of participants possible. Why you should check in with the parent often during the meeting to really hear their voice. Links and Resources Parent Input Survey for IEPs Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Dealing with behaviors in the classroom is something that every teacher deals with…whether you have been teaching for a year or 20 years. We always have students who push and test and we have to find a way to address what is happening each day. In this week’s episode, I am chatting with Shannon Dobson. She is a behavioral expert with so many ideas, processes and improvements to share. She is giving us some tried and true strategies that we can implement in our classroom that will help us find success for the rest of the year. In this episode you will learn: About multi-tiered systems of supports New evidenced based practices that make a difference How to give yourself, and your students, grace when it comes to daily behaviors How using positive reinforcement really does work Links and Resources IEP Input Surveys Connect with Shannon Basically Behavior on IG Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

What is backward chaining? Backward chaining is such an important idea in the special education world. Basically, you teach a student a skill by starting at the end and then slowly backing up each step until they are able to complete the task on their own. This technique can cut down on frustration, allows for more visuals or hands-on learning and often helps students reach independent levels more quickly. In this episode you will learn: What is backward chaining and why it is important in the special education classroom. Practical examples of backward chaining that you can use today. How to reduce frustration in the learning process. Links and Resources Valentine Tees for Special Educators February Resources Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In this episode, we're joined by Tiffany Atkinson and Jessica McWhorter from Mane, a non-profit specializing in equine-assisted learning activities. They discuss how Mane, established in 1994, has evolved to support children and adults with a variety of disabilities. We delve into their therapy programs, learn about the process of matching horses to learners, and hear touching success stories. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in alternative therapies in special education. In this episode you will learn: What equine therapy is and how it can help your students. What kind of accommodations are made for students with disabilities. Where to find equine therapy in your area. Links and Resources Winter Bundle Valentine Tees for Special Education Teachers Connect with MANE MANE Website MANE Facebook MANE Instagram Path Center Look Up Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

When students with disabilities face academic or social challenges for which they feel ill-equipped, some give up, avoid tasks, or act out. These students, especially those with neurodiversity or trauma history, may exhibit poor executive functioning skills or struggle with resiliency, the ability to overcome and adapt to challenging situations. IEPs that ignore trauma history may interfere with student progress. Educators should meet students with disabilities where they are, setting goals emphasizing executive functioning skills and fostering resiliency. In this episode you will learn: How to set reasonable expectations Understanding executive functioning When to address resiliency How to promote backward chaining Links and Resources Winter Bundle Valentine’s Bundle Special Educator Teacher Tees Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In this episode of Be the Exception Podcast, we have Malia Hollowell, a renowned educator and advocate for the Science of Reading, joining us again. With two decades of experience, Malia shares her journey from confronting the stark reality of unpreparedness to developing a comprehensive, effective approach to teaching reading. Key Highlights: Malia's transformative journey in education. Introduction to the ACED four-step system: Assessment, Creating groups, End of year goals, and Designing a plan. Practical advice for special education teachers and insights into the foundational skills of reading. Details about the upcoming free teacher training webinar: "Five Secrets That Unlock Students' Reading." How educators can join the Science of Reading formula membership for continuous learning and support. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review if you found this episode valuable. Happy teaching! Links and Resources Malia’s Free Webinar The Science of Reading in Action: Brain-Friendly Strategies Every Teacher Needs to Know Connect with Malia Malia’s Website Malia’s Instagram Malia’s Facebook Malia’s Pinterest Malia’s TikTok Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

As we step into January 2024, we understand that the transition from holiday break back to the classroom comes with its unique set of challenges. In today's episode, we're focusing on strategies and tips to help you refresh your teaching approach and reconnect with your students. So, let's turn the page to a new chapter filled with opportunities and growth! Remember that your dedication and passion as a special education teacher have the power to transform lives. The start of a new year is the perfect time to re-energize your approach and reconnect with your students. In this episode you will learn: Why you should do a routines refresh on the very first day! How to set new expectations for your students. Why you may need to reconnect with your students, even if you had a good relationship before the break. How to prepare for upcoming IEPs. Links and Resources Winter Shirts for Teachers New Year’s Activity Snowflake Sort The Exceptional Collective Winter Bundle Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

As 2023 comes to a close I want to take a moment to highlight some of the top episodes from Be the Exception Podcast. I briefly touch on everything from neurodiversity to lesson planning as we take a look back. Links and Resources Episode 145: Rachelle’s Instagram Rachelle’s Facebook Rachelle’s TpT Store Rachelle’s Email Episode 149: Laine’s IEP Vision Goal Freebie Transition Abilities TpT Store Transition Abilities Facebook Transition Abilities Instagram Transition Abilities Website Transition Abilities YouTube Transition Abilities Email List for Freebies Episode 168: {FREE} How to Plan Your Year Out Month by Month Webinar Lesson Plan Templates Welcome Back Packet Sub Plan Templates Schedule Templates Using Schedules in Special Education Classrooms Blog Mastering Special Education Lesson Plans: Your Ultimate Guide Blog The Power of Special Education Lesson Plan Templates Blog Episode 169: Action Driven Education Website Action Driven Education Blog Action Driven Education Newsletters Action Driven Education Facebook Action Driven Education Instagram Action Driven Education LinkedIn Tim’s Email Episode 170: {FREE} How to Plan Your Year Out Month by Month Webinar Learn More About the Exceptional Collective Using Schedules in Special Education Classrooms Blog Etsy Store for Special Ed Stickers and Teacher Tees Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Feedback is defined as information about a person’s performance of a task that is used as a basis for improvement. Feedback is so important for our special education students. It is imperative for their growth and improvement. So how do we master the art of giving feedback? In this week’s episode, I’m sharing 5 different tips for giving effective feedback. These tips will help you become a master at giving feedback to your students and also other professionals that you work with. They are easy to implement but allow for a quick difference. In this episode you will learn: How to be specific and clear How to focus on the behavior or need and not the person How to offer a balance of feedback How to help your student set goals to improve and guide them through the process Links and Resources The Exceptional Collective Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

Classroom behavior…ick, am I right? Or maybe just sometimes ick…it can just be so challenging to make sure that behaviors are controlled, that we are finding the reasons behind the behaviors and that all of our students are in a place where they can learn. In this week’s episode, I am chatting with my friend Abby from Mrs. Moes Modifications about behavior management insight for the special ed classroom. Abby is a behavior interventionist and she is sharing all her knowledge to help you gain control. In this episode you will learn: The importance of taking data on classroom behavior Intervention ideas Best practices for implementing behavior management strategies How and when to use a BIP Links and Resources Digital Data Collection Freebie Mrs. Moes Modifications Data Workshop Mrs. Moes Modifications Instagram Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

In this festive episode, we explore the importance of inclusive holiday celebrations in special education classrooms. Drawing inspiration from blog posts and highlighting educational benefits, we dive into various Christmas activities that will make this season unforgettable for your students. Plus, we've got special gifts, exclusive memberships, and holiday designs to share with you. Tune in for inspiration and actionable ideas! Links and Resources Holiday Designed Tees for Teachers Unwrap the Magic: Christmas Activities for Special Education Blog 23 Print and Ready Holiday Activities Blog The Ultimate Teacher Gift Guide for Holiday Season 2023 The Exceptional Collective Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

What does it mean to join the digital frontier in your classroom? There is so much technology out there and sometimes educators think that our students are not ready to advance in this area…at least when talking about using digital learning to be successful in future school and employment opportunities. In today's episode, we're thrilled to explore the innovative world of Digitability with Michelle and Rebecca. Discover how their journey from traditional classrooms to digital frontiers is transforming the landscape of special education for middle and high school teachers. Join us to learn about the empowering impact of Digitability on both students and educators!" Digitability’s transition curriculum teaches digital literacy and work-ready skills to people with cognitive disabilities. This increases outcomes and enables students to successfully transition into the workforce as self-advocates. Learn how their resources can make a difference in your special education classroom. In this episode you will learn: The story behind the business, Digitability. How to overcome the barriers that are in the way for your students when it comes to connecting with digital learning. The curriculum highlights in Digitability’s resources. About real life stories where Digitability has made a difference for a student or teacher. Links and Resources Digitability’s Website Digitability’s Virtual Banking System for Special Education Students Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Find me on Tik Tok Etsy Shop TpT Store Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

This week’s podcast is a little different! I have some super special Black Friday sales going on and I wanted you to make sure that you knew exactly what you are getting! So listen in and find out what is included in each special this week. Connect with Dawn Find me on IG Etsy Shop TpT Store Ultimate Sales Page Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Leave a Review If you are loving the podcast, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other teachers find my podcast and I love hearing what you think about the podcast as well. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what part of the podcast you found to be the most helpful!

So what is a sensory room anyway? It is a space that allows students with sensory needs to receive an immersive sensory experience. The space does not have to be an entire room, a corner is better than nothing. It is also not limited to a special education classroom, but rather can serve a purpose in a general education classroom as well. This week I am sharing ideas of what to put in a sensory space and how to get one started on a budget. You will come away with practical ideas of where to start so that your students’ needs are completely met. In this episode you will learn: The benefits of having a sensory space. How to adapt a corner of your classroom to meet these needs of your students. How to use grants to get the items you need for your sensory space. About different resources you can put in your sensory space. Links and Resources Digital Planner for Special Education Teachers Sign Language Poster How to Write a Grant Connect with Dawn Sensory Items on Amazon Find me on IG Subscribe Are you subscribed to my podcast? Trust me, you definitely want to do that so you don’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe in iTunes!