GLEAN START Coaches Newsletter
April 2020
Tips for engaging students with a school routine at home
Establish a Routine
Developing structure and routine benefits everyone. Routines help our student(s) understand what the expectations of the time and day are. Routines also help reduce anxiety because they understand what's happening now and next. Another huge benefit of routines is that they help build independence. Here are some simple tips:
- Your daily routine does not need to be school work all day long.
- Figure out a routine that works for your child and family.
- Alternate between school/work tasks and movement/fun activities.
- Be sure to develop some sort of visual to show the routine and refer to it at transitions.
- Additional routines you can build into the day include chores, reading, puzzles or creative time, outdoor time or exercise, snack and more.
Write it down
Picture Schedules
Digital Apps
Create a school space
Work space
Visual Expectations
Visual labels
Set small goals
For some students, a whole day's schedule is overwhelming. Break it down into smaller parts. Consider setting small goals for the hour or morning. Token systems are a great way to break down tasks and reinforce work completion. Also, be mindful of developmentally-appropriate time frames when establishing goals and routines.
First Then
Token System
Set weekly or daily goals
Use a Timer
Time Timer
Kitchen Timer
Smart phone timer
Create opportunities for Independence
Visual cues
Task Analysis
Checklists
Covid-19 School Closure Resources
Each of the resources and sites below continue to be updated with new and additional resources. Be sure to check back often and share with colleagues and families when appropriate.
START Information & Resources in response to Covid-19
Genesee ISD Educator Resources
Genesee ISD K-8 Learning Packets
* Now includes Infant and Pre-K as well as ESL. Answer keys also included!
Students or parents can call this line and be connected with a licensed professional from the GISD (social workers, counselors, therapists) during the hours of 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. Callers are able to leave a message after hours and will receive a call back during operational hours.
The licensed professional answering the call may assist in the following areas:
- Provide support to assist students and parents dealing with stressful situations.
- Provide assistance in accessing resources and getting the help students/families need.
- Refer students/families to other local and county agencies for additional support.
Teacher Consultants and Coach Leaders
Teacher Consultant, ASD:
Laura Henry - lhenry@geneseeisd.org
Alex Keesling - akeesling@geneseeisd.orgBarb Olszewski - bolszews@geneseeisd.org
Angie Grindel, Consultant for Behavior Support - agrindel@geneseeisd.org
Kelli Pierscinski, TC for students with Disabilities - kpierscinski@geneseeisd.org
GISD's Regional Collaborative Network (RCN) has partnered with Livingston ESA to strengthen our resources and collaborate to bring your MORE amazing things from START. We are GLEAN (Genesee-Livingston Educational Autism Network).