A day in the life: Autism Teacher
Don’t get me wrong - I love my job. I’ve been doing it for 15 years. It is for the most part fun and rewarding but some days are just a struggle. 😣
A lot of students who go through my program struggle with recognizing danger such as trying to climb furniture - which I’ve learned is a behavior rooted in sensory needs as well.
I have an assistant but she was out to lunch so I was left with all my kids. I blocked access to a file cabinet that a particular student was trying to climb and he was not pleased. We have tried to use social stories, visuals, and other strategies but he was just persistent today. And unfortunately my arms were in the way of his nails. Lol.
Every day is a learning experience and I have to keep problem solving - which I think is the part I enjoy. So if you ever visit my classroom, you’ll find me constantly rearranging the environment, making new visuals and sitting on the floor trying to problem solve (for some reason I do my best thinking while sitting on the floor).✌🏼
#specialeducation #teacher #teacherlife #storytime #Lemon8Diary
Teaching students with autism requires patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of their individual needs. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects how students communicate, interact, and learn, making tailored approaches essential. Educators often implement techniques such as social stories, visuals, and structured environments to enhance learning outcomes. It’s common for teachers to adapt their teaching strategies, incorporating sensory-friendly materials and engaging activities designed to foster engagement and reduce anxiety. Collaboration with specialists plays a pivotal role in developing effective teaching plans. Regular communication with parents also aids in aligning classroom strategies with children's home routines, ensuring consistency in their learning. Teachers often share resources and strategies within communities, contributing to a larger conversation about best practices in special education. Support from colleagues is crucial as they navigate daily challenges, often discussing behavioral strategies and sharing in the triumphs of their students. Whether it's a breakthrough in communication or a moment of understanding, these experiences fuel a teacher's passion and dedication. Given the demands of the job, self-care and professional development also become critical components of an educator's routine, ensuring they remain effective and passionate about teaching. In summary, the life of an autism teacher is marked by both trials and triumphs, requiring unwavering dedication and a genuine love for nurturing every child's potential.
I’m a para in a special Needs classroom. I’ve been doing it for 10 years. I also love it, it fills my cup. It also can be extremely exhausting. Thanks for sharing your story.