Patricia

autism

Throughout my teaching career, I have taught many students on the autism spectrum including my own son. I have given lectures regarding teaching methods to parents and educators on a mission to Moldova. When working with children on the severe end of the autism spectrum, teaching them independent living skills and a way to communicate is important. This may be accomplished through pecs and visual charts for routines. When teaching students on the mild end of the autism spectrum, teaching social skills is vital. This can be accomplished by direct instruction and modeling behavior. There are many other components when working with this population. One must remember,as with all children, each one is an individual and has individual learning styles which need to be addressed as well as strengths and weaknesses.

dyslexia

Aspergers

I worked successfully with Aspergers students during the 8 years I taught in a clinical setting for language based learning disabilities. During this time I was successful due to my focusing on the following principles: the importance of being consistent and organized so that the child knows what to expect, the inclusion of social skills training and the teaching of real life skills, encouraging special interests and teaching through the child's strengths. I found it necessary to stress eye contact and if necessary have them repeat the directions in their own words so that the tutor knows if they have been listening and that they understand the task. In summary, goals need to include improving communication, social skills, and using behavior management techniques to reward positive behaviors. Aspergers Syndrome can be accompanied by coexisting conditions such as ADHD, OCD, Non Verbal Learning Disabilities, etc. which require additional teaching strategies that I used when teaching in a clinical setting.

ADD/ADHD

It is important to use multisensory approaches when tutoring/teaching students with ADD/ADHD. Using frequent breaks allows the student to move around and then re-focus. The tutor needs to be sure to have the student's attention before beginning instruction by making sure there is eye contact and using a multi-sensory approach when teaching so that all the channels for learning are tapped. Many times it is necessary to change activities frequently. I am certified by Ga. Professional Standards to teach students with learning disabilities which includes ADHD/ADD through 2019. I taught ADD/ADHD students at a Speech School for 8 years and Cobb County for 2 years as well as a Hebrew Academy for 5 years.

special needs

ADHD

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

study skills

phonics

elementary (k-6th)

English

reading

grammar

vocabulary