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Showing posts with the label brain development

Classroom or Home learning Strategies for Supporting Students with ADHD

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Welcome to our discussion on classroom strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. In this entry, we'll explore practical strategies that teachers can implement to support students with ADHD in the classroom or when home schooling. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, we aim to minimise distractions, promote focus and engagement, and empower students to succeed academically and socially. 1. Establish Structured Routines: Consistent routines provide predictability and stability for students with ADHD. Create a structured daily schedule with clear transitions between activities. Use visual schedules or checklists to help students stay organised and understand what is expected of them throughout the day. 2. Provide Clear Instructions: Clear, concise instructions are essential for students with ADHD. Break tasks into smaller steps and provide verbal and written instructions to reinforce understanding. Use visual aids, such as diagrams or flowcharts, to support comprehension a

Navigating Sensory Processing Disorders: Supporting Your Child's School Experience

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Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects how individuals process and respond to sensory stimuli from their environment. While sensory experiences are typically integrated seamlessly by the brain, individuals with SPD may have difficulties in this regard, leading to sensory over-responsivity, under-responsivity, or seeking behaviours. This means that everyday sensations such as touch, sound, taste, smell, and sight can be perceived as overwhelming or even painful for those with SPD. As a result, individuals may exhibit a range of behaviours, including sensory avoidance, hyperactivity, meltdowns, or withdrawal , as they attempt to regulate their sensory input. Understanding and recognising SPD is crucial for providing appropriate support and accommodations for individuals affected by the condition. While Sensory Processing Disorder is not officially recognised as a standalone diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-

Embracing Every Opportunity: Reading Practice Throughout the School Day

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Reading is a foundational skill that forms the cornerstone of academic success and lifelong learning. In the bustling environment of a school day, opportunities for reading practice abound, presenting numerous chances for children to hone their literacy skills and gain confidence in their abilities. Today, let's explore the various opportunities woven into the fabric of a school day where reading can be practiced and celebrated. 1. Morning Assembly: Setting the Stage for Reading Success The school day often begins with a morning assembly, where students gather to kickstart their day. This serves as an ideal opportunity to incorporate reading practice by having students read aloud announcements, share interesting facts, or even recite poems or short passages. Engaging in reading activities from the outset fosters a positive attitude towards reading and sets the tone for the day ahead. 2. Reading Aloud: Bringing Learning Objectives to Life As educators, one of our prim

Reading Together: Bonding and Brain Development with Under-3s

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As a primary school teacher, I have witnessed first hand the transformative power of reading in shaping young minds and fostering meaningful connections between children and their caregivers. Reading together with under-3s is not only a bonding experience but also a crucial component of early brain development . In this blog, I will share insights from my perspective as a teacher on the importance of reading with under-3s, highlighting the benefits for both children and their caregivers. The Importance of Reading Together : Reading together with under-3s lays the foundation for a lifelong love of learning and literacy. During the first few years of life, children's brains are rapidly developing, and exposure to language-rich environments is essential for cognitive growth. Reading aloud to young children stimulates brain development, strengthens neural connections, and lays the groundwork for language acquisition and communication skills. Furthermore, reading together fosters emotio