Wrapping it all up

I've learned so much this semester and I'm so grateful for the eye opening lessons and insights from peers I received in SPED 310. Here is a cognitive map indicating the highlights of lesson 3-13:)

Love one another

As the semester comes to a close, I have had time to reflect back on all that I've accomplished and experienced at this time. One of the key components is that I've learned to love one another. Whether that be children, or co-teachers. Its so important to walk where they walk and open your heart to where they are coming from. If you truly open your heart to loving those around you, you will be given the gifts of patience, understanding, humility, kindness, and so much more. Your working environment will work more smoothly. You will be in harmony with your co-teachers and your students will feel the difference. In many cases, you are the only love they feel. Make sure your making the difference and loving all those around you.  I know that sometimes you don't understand and you don't get along with co-teachers or children, but the key is to be the better person and work things out. The children don't have time for our disunity, we don't have time for children's disunity with us. Communication is key, Love is essential, and Happiness is a choice.

Express Yo Self

This week I gave the children a piece of paper, markers, crayons, color pencils and free time to simply express themselves. With simple instructions; write your name in a creative way and draw things around your name that express you. It was beautiful to walk around the room and watch the children write their names and draw pictures of things that describe them or that they like. Some drew mountains and trees, flowers, feathers, suns and sports like; footballs, baseballs, soccer; also phrases like; love, happy, kind, etc. Afterword the children loved looking at each others papers and complementing them and agreeing to what they wrote. Some even said their friends were the best and that they loved doing this activity.
What are some activities you could do in your classroom to help your children express themselves?

Holding Hands Around the world

This week we focused on being kind and loving one another even though we are different. We shared a presentation with the children on how there are different cultures around the world. We asked the kids how we can work together and get along with people that aren't like us. They really had a positive look at it. They had great insight about how they are different then their best friends but they find value in their differences. We went out side and drew chalk outlines of the children's bodies and the children went around and said nice things about one another. It was such a great activity. There was one child specifically with autism that really feel connected to some of the students. He said some very nice things. He doesn't recognize that he is any different from them. This program really does well at loving everyone, no matter their state of health or special needs. We are all Sons and Daughters of God. We need to lift each other up, hold one another's hand and work together to make the world a better place.

Here are some real images of our activity:
   
Learning Disability: Just like this little boy. I had to take in practice what he goes through daily. I had to goes hours talking and feeling how he and millions of other with learning disability feel. All i wanted to do was fully express myself and full communicate, but it was so difficult. I was so grateful for this activity, so that I could truly feel what he feels. Although i won't ever FULLY know, I got a glimpse of it and now i have so much more empathy.

Teach to their needs, not your wants

The key to a successful classroom, where the children do as directed and participation is administrated; is teaching to the needs of individual children. Much to often we teach to what we want, or what we think the children want. This week I recognized that this is what me and my co- teachers have been doing. We have been teaching lessons, and those lessons we thought were lessons the children wanted and needed. But we truly stood back and began to recognize and listen to the voice of the children. From there we began to teach lessons and activities more directed at them and their needs, not our wants. Specifically, there is this girl that you may consider to be the 'problem child'. She is always acting out, getting in fights, night participating and struggling a lot at home, so it causes issues at school. We decided to ask what activities she would enjoy doing and she told us. We then went from there and planned an activity to help her become more involved within the classroom. The next day she participated, enjoyed the classroom, got along with her peers, presented what she created, she was smiling and happy. It was incredible to see the difference in her body language. She recognized that someone listens to her and wanted to hear her opinions. I can't wait for the other opportunities with other children.

Orthopedic Impairment: I had to practice having a disability this week. It was challenging to have to use a wheelchair. I had to go hours without being able to use my legs. Going up hill and going around town, on campus, and even had to go into a restroom. We take for granted our daily ability to walk, run, skip, jump. In this experience i had to realize that the world does not fully design Everything for people in wheelchairs. Their needs aren't always met. Getting a drink at the drinking fountain was so difficult, going to the bathroom was insanely hard. wheeling up hill was a struggle... so many thing i just am so grateful i now see that every child with a disability has different needs and we must be there to help. 

Creativity Opens Doors of Imagination

This week we have been focusing a lot on art and learning about the world around us. While observing the children hard at work with their art projects it's so fun to see how happy they get using their imagination. Some children really get into it. Others enjoy it but aren't as talented as their peers, so they get frustrated. Then there are those others that observe their peers and copy what they are doing. I myself enjoy creating and using my imagination. I encourage the children to do the same. Especially with many that have disabilities, this is a time for them to truly express themselves and have their own personal time of imagination and happiness. The more color and art in a room, I believe the healthier the environment. You, as a teacher, can learn so much from the art of your children. Especially when you add music to the room while they are creating, you will truly see emotion in their art and you can find out a lot about what they are going through or feeling through their pictures, no matter the age.

 

Sharing is Caring

This week the theme was sharing. Have you ever noticed that a child with disabilities is either amazing at sharing and getting along with other children, or the complete opposite. Well this week I've noticed a great deal of love between the children. Usually someone isn't playing nice with the other children, but this week there was so much sharing happening. I watched them share food and share the game they were playing, or the pencil they were writing with. Maybe it was the love in the air from Valentines, or maybe the spring weather that was making everyone get along. Whatever it was it was simply amazing:) With so much sharing in the atmosphere you could feel a sense of love and unity that only comes from the heart of each child. What a great time to be a teacher watching your children grow:)

Some Great Quotes about Sharing:
"Sharing. you can only have MORE for yourself by giving it away to others."
" Happiness is only real when Shared."
"Happiness never will be decreased if shared."
"The more we share, the more we Have."
"Sharing is Caring. It can be fun."


 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY with a day of learning!
Birthdays are such a special time to recognize those that we love. This week we had a birthday party for one of the co-student teachers in our class. The children were so excited and happy to participate in creating birthday card, eating cake and cookies and being involved in a balloon game. One of the children was not having a good day though. He has been acting out lately and just not being himself. Today he came up and tore down the decorations for the party and walked away. This hurt, especially after all the effort that was put into creating such a fun party. But instead of freaking out and yelling at him, I was forced to stay calm, breathe, and kindly ask him if he was okay and why he did that. Unfortunately he didn't have an answer, but later in our group debrief i found out he has been struggling in school and home and its taken a tole on him.
I learned a lesson today. No matter what someone does to you, you never know what they are going through. I was so happy I was kind to him and still loved him after such a rude act. Make it a goal to be the better person, to love those that do you wrong, and especially don't forget to have patience with your children.

 

Patience is a Virtue

I found a common theme in working with children this week. That theme was patience. I found it to truly be a virtue given from on high. There were times that I simply couldn't do it anymore... but I felt an extra push from within. The children I work with have very hard homes and for all their needs and disabilities- I'm afraid to say- they don't receive patience and love at home. So I really focused on being the difference in their lives. As an example of this, I thought of a pile of rocks. While they may be surrounded by water and sand, constantly hitting them and changing the environment around them, they are able to stand still and keep steady because of each rock under them supporting them and holding them steady. How was I to become that rock in their lives?- I asked myself. So I began to focus on the why?- Why did I want to be that for them? Through my diligence, and observation of the situations when I needed patience the most,  I found the how.
With all things, we need a purpose to why we do what we do. That purpose will grow strength in our heart and also a spirit of determination that will uphold us against any hard day. That is when we begin to develop patience. The true virtue of patience comes with time and a lot of practice.




Fluency Disorder (stuttering): I actually grew up with a brother that had a stuttering disorder. Although it only happened when he was excited, or nervous. I really got to see his point of view this week while i had to go to stores and speak as though i had one. People had to be so patient with me, i had to be patient with myself and speak slowly enough to get things out so people understood. I truly am so grateful for the ability to speak. And i am so thankful for the patience of those around me. I hope those with true disorders receive the same kind of love and patience.

Something in the Air

This week while working with my fourth graders there was just something in the air. By this i mean they were so frigidity, had no desire to participate, said ridiculous things, got in fights, and refused to do their homework. 

Have you ever experienced your child simply having an off day? What are some things you did to handle it? This week I learned that sometimes you simply cannot do anything, except be patient, take them aside and not let them think it is okay to act in this manner. Children test our waters, and definitely love testing authority. Raising and working with children is not an easy task. Unlike other jobs that have basic routines. This job, whether you are a stay at home mom, or caregiver- is not basic nor does your routines always go as planned. Your child(ren) will have their days, you will have your off days too, they will get sick, they will not want to do the activity or lesson you have planned, and or something else will come up. The key in any of these situations is communication. 

We cannot help them, if they do not express to us what is wrong, or why they don't want to participate. And you can simply say that, " Express to me what you are feeling, so I can help you." Many children will take this as you genuinely care for their feelings and opinion and your not just powering over them. You will find trust and a genuine relationship grow as you communicate and listen. Then once you have done that make an executive decision that benefits both parties. This will have a positive impact on your relationship with the children, but also a positive effect on the classroom. Make sure though that they are not manipulating you or over powering your authority. At the end of the day you must be loving, respectful and do what is best for them, even when they don't think it is. 

Letting a child be creative is essential in their development:

The creative part of the brain of a child needs time to grow and develop. It could be considered a hidden treasure that some take for granted while others don't even know they have it. This week I had the chance in working with a group of children in creating structures out of pretzels and marshmallows. I first taught them about real life structures and how they need interior and exterior walls, a base frame, a roof, etc. Without each part of the structure, the structure would become unstable and would become easily damaged because of its weaknesses. I gave each student pretzels and marshmallows and told them to use their creativity and the knowledge they had just received in making a structure. It was fascinating to see some children went beyond the mark, and were very creative. - they added fire pits, snowman, telescopes, and bathrooms to their structure. While other children struggled and only made a cube or a pyramid. 

   

 

Why is it that some struggled and others thrived? Just like structures, children need to have strengths in all different parts so they can become strong and successful. What can we do as parents, teachers, and guardians to help our children grow and develop in all attributes? I feel in today's world of technology and internet, the use of imagination and creativity is fading and becoming a foreign concept. Children do not get the chance to draw, create and building their imagination. They are forced to focus on problems going on at home, homework from school- math, science, English, etc. We need to get back the fun essentials that make children become better adults.  
''Whether you’re a creative soul or think you haven’t got a single creative bone in your body: creativity has something for you. In today’s marketplace, creativity is linked to innovation: a valuable and sought-after skill.Artists and creatives have long been admired for their ability to think outside the box, as much as their gifts have been lauded as somehow outlying and mysterious. Despite the myths: creativity is a developable, trainable skill with many positive benefits for us all.... five ways that creativity has positively affect [lives];  More engergy, better moods, better careers, see possibilites and opportunites, learn persistence and dedication, learns persistence and continual learning and growth" (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/katherine-parrott/5-ways-creativity-positiv_b_7876818.html)  
Aren't these qualites we want to teach our children? By giving them the chance to be creative, we are giving them the chance to become a successful adult and human. 

Puberty, an Adventure of itself, Questions and Answers: 

What do you think of when you think of the word puberty? Many will say, changes in the body, starting your period if you are a women, growth of facial hair and testes for males, possibly even mention the change of voice and body growth. But think back when you were a child, becoming an adolescent. Did you ever find yourself asking yourself if you were normal? Did you truly understand what was going on with you body? Did you have someone to ask? Did you get your questions answered? Where you to embarrassed to ask? I would like to clearly state questions and answers to those questions that parents might have so that they can help their child not feel embarrassed or alone. 

First off, Females mature and develop more quickly then the average male. It's okay that their body is changing. Its okay that they are gaining weight and developing breast. This can be a hard time for young girls. Make sure not to make them feel bad about their body changes. Negative feelings could develop Anorexia nervosa, or Bulimia nervosa. Help your daughter realize her body is an amazing, unique and special--- and all bodies are different. 

How should I prepare my daughter for her period?

Getting a period is a normal part of puberty. To help make the transition less scary, talk to your daughter about her period BEFORE she gets it. Let your daughter know:

• That a period is normal and nothing to be afraid of
• How to use feminine products like pads and tampons
• How to deal with cramps
• That she can talk to you about her periods

My daughter is 15 and hasn’t started having periods. Should I be worried?

Periods don’t start until all parts of a girl’s reproductive system have matured. In the U.S., girls generally start having their periods around age 12. But the normal range for girls to begin having periods is anytime between the ages of 8 and 16. Some children begin to develop later than most of their peers. Others begin to develop earlier. This is usually normal and not a problem. Your child’s healthcare provider can monitor your son or daughter’s maturation and watch for problems. Bring your child in for regular well-child checkups. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s growth and development, ask your child’s healthcare provider. If your daughter has not begun her period by age 16, you should make an appointment to discuss it with her healthcare provider.

My child has become very moody. Is this normal?

Moodiness is very common during puberty. You may see changes in your child’s personality. Your child may be less willing to spend time with you, may be much less interested in talking to you, and may develop new interests. All these changes are normal. Though moodiness is to be expected, some mood changes can mean depression. Symptoms of depression include:

• Losing interest in things that he or she used to enjoy
• Crying often
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Being angry or enraged
• Having a drop in grades
• Talking about feeling worthless or hopeless

If you notice any of these signs, bring your child to see his or her healthcare provider right away.

What can I do to stay in my child’s life?

The best thing to do is to check in with your child often. Even if your child is sullen or doesn’t want to talk, continue to talk to your child and ask for information about his or her life. It’s important that your child know you’re there to help guide him or her through what can be a difficult time. Make an effort to:

• Know who your child’s friends are.
• Know how your child spends his or her time.
• Limit TV and computer time to 2 hours a day. It’s best to not let your child have a TV or computer in his or her room. Have the computer and TV in a common area, where use can be monitored. Consider not allowing your child to have his or her smartphone in his or her room. 
• Plan for a family time that everyone is expected to attend. This could be a meal, a game, or other activity. Have family time daily, if possible, or at least a few days a week.
• Ask your child questions about his or her day.

Don’t be discouraged if your child isn’t responsive at first. The point is to make it clear that you are engaged and open to discussion. One way to open discussion is to ask about current events rather than personal issues. This lets your child talk about his feelings and experiences without the pressure of all the focus being on his life.

How much do I need to say about sex?

Sex can be an uncomfortable topic for parents and kids to discuss. But, for your child’s safety and health, it’s important that he or she knows the facts. Let your child know you are available to talk, then wait until your child brings up the subject. You can also provide your child with a book or pamphlet from a trusted source to read on his or her own. But be sure to be available to answer questions. If you don’t feel able to talk to your child about sex, take your child to his or her healthcare provider for a discussion about sex and sexual issues.

My 16-year-old son is very focused on appearance. Is this normal?

Teens become very focused on appearance during puberty. Though it can disrupt routines and try family members’ patience. During puberty, regular bathing is important to help prevent body odor and helps with oily skin. So encourage good hygiene habits. But discourage your child from becoming obsessed with looks and image. Encourage your child to dress appropriately for his or her age. Limit makeup use. Keep in mind that your child may look mature physically, but emotionally he or she is still developing.

My son often locks himself in his room. I think he’s masturbating. Should I be worried?

During puberty, when hormone levels are increasing, interest in sex greatly increases. Masturbation (pleasuring oneself sexually) is a common way that both boys and girls explore their sexuality and changing bodies. It is very normal and is not harmful to your child. But, it can be uncomfortable to talk about masturbation. It’s good to let your child know you are available to answer questions.

https://www.fairview.org/HealthLibrary/Article/89563 

Voice Change

As their voice box enlarges and the vocal cords grow, their voice may "crack" as they speak. While this can be embarrassing and annoying, it's a normal part of the growth process.

Wet Dreams

Boys may wake up in the morning to find sticky, damp areas in their pajama pants and sheets. These "wet dreams," or nocturnal emissions, are caused by an ejaculation, not urination, that occurs during sleep and are not an indication that the boy was having a sexual dream. Parents should explain these events to their son without blame, and reassure him you understand that he cannot prevent it from happening. Wet dreams are just part of growing up.

Involuntary Erections

During puberty, boys get erections spontaneously, without touching their penis and without having sexual thoughts. These unexpected erections can be quite embarrassing, especially if they occur in public—at school, for example. Let your son know that these unexpected erections can happen and are normal signs that his body is maturing. Explain that they happen to all boys during puberty, and that over time they will become less frequent.

Breast Enlargement

Many boys experience swelling of the breasts during the early years of puberty. Most often, your son may feel a button like bump under one or both nipples. His breasts may also feel tender or even painful, especially when hit. After a few months—sometimes longer—the swelling will disappear; let your son know that these lumps will rarely  develop into true breasts.

One Testicle Lower than the Other

Uneven testicles, although they may be embarrassing in the boys' locker room, are both normal and common.

Parents can support their preteen:

As your child approaches and enters puberty, be sensitive to his need for privacy. Preteens often become more modest while they bathe, for example, or change their clothes. Respect this wish for privacy, not only as it relates to their bodies but in other areas as well, such as remembering to knock before entering their rooms.

Preteens also become more sensitive about how they look during this time. Their interest in grooming increases, and they are frequently concerned about their appearance, thanks largely to influence from their peers and advertising messages. Watch for signs of a child who has a negative im­age of their bodies, which in some cases can result in eating disorders.

It is very important to avoid even good-natured teasing of your child's puber­tal development changes. Most pre-teens will be easily embarrassed if they are teased about the changing shape of their bodies or their deepening voices.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/puberty/Pages/Concerns-Boys-Have-About-Puberty.aspx 

This week I had the opportunity to work with some exceptional students. In my findings I found that all children, no matter their need or their difficulties; are in search of love. It is so important for us as their care givers and/or teachers to be patient and give the proper amount of love and guidance they need. Many of the students I worked with this week aren't finding that love at home. So they are act out at school or do things to get the most attention, to find that love we all naturally yearn for. Children will disagree, act out irrationally, speak inappropriately, tell stories, be disruptive to the class, and I am sure you have seen them do it. Many of the students I am currently working with have ADHD and if they do not take their medicine they are extremely difficult to handle. I learned this week that the key is that we handle every case with love and patience. I've been struggling with that, but when you find your purpose and realize that you can be the change in this child's life. You suddenly are able to find the strength to love them. You find the love you have for them and their development just flows through your body. Also if we keep them in our thoughts and prayers and teach them by the influence of the Spirit. Doors will be open and we will find we connect with the children in ways we would have never imagined. 
Step back and see where they are coming from. Lets say your child has visual impairment. I took time this week to see how it would be not to have my vision. I got frustrated, sad, and I yearned for help. I hope that I can be that 'help' to my students that have difficulties of any kind. I want to be that help with love and patience, be there be their side.