tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91185233325643972722024-03-05T00:19:32.707-08:00The Calming CornerA school psychologist sharing ideas for special education, counseling and social skillsMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-3294957045326344642018-08-15T19:48:00.000-07:002018-08-15T19:48:06.647-07:0010 things to do in your first month as a School PsychologistIt's almost that time! Your either reading this and dreading the end of summer, or you've had boxes of school supplies piled up and ready to move into your office for weeks. <br />
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I sometimes get emails from new school psychologist or students with lots of questions. Sometimes I feel like that was <i>just me. </i>Other times I can't even remember how many years I've been working for.<br />
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I wanted to share some tips for those brand spankin' new School Psychs today...rock it, you guys!<br />
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*<i>Just a note-I have learned so much from online communities of School Psychologists throughout the US. I know our roles vary significantly. Mine is based on an elementary position, 1 building role.</i><br />
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Your To Do List:<br />
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Mark your Space: Maybe it's a picture of your dog, a family portrait, a sweet card a former student or coworker made you, mark your new office (space) with something that will make you smile.<br />
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Get yourself a calendar: To this day, one of the first things I do each year is print of the district calendar and transfer it to my outlook (where I keep everything, I don't use a paper planner). You'll need this for a myriad of different reasons, everything from knowing your first vacation day, to your first PD after school session.<br />
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Meet & Greet the building: My mother, who is an elementary teacher, gave me great advice when I first started by job. She told me to make friends with my coworkers-put out a bowl of candy, and offer them help. So, my first day of working <i>ever</i> as a school psych, I spent moving around furniture in the special education classroom. Grab a new minutes with your principal/supervisor, definitely see the secretary and custodian, and walk through the halls to say hello to the teachers. <br />
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Find out who you will be working with: After you've done a general "hello!", spend time with the staff you will be working closely with-the special education teachers, the school social worker, the nurse. Then, find out how you know the students you will work with. Once you know the students, you can meet their teachers, start reading their plans, etc.<br />
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Figure out what your role is: HAHAHAHA. I laugh, because I truly think the job of a school psychologist is never-ending. A few years ago one of my supervisors had all the psychologists write down our roles on a piece of paper. I kid you not, there were like 30 by the time we all shared out and remembered all of the things we do each day! Anyway, get from your supervisor a general understanding of your role. Do you do all the counseling? What population of students do you work with? Do you have any role in school climate? What about general education initiatives? Are there certain meetings you attend every week? Things will pop up along the way, but the more you know at the beginning, the better.<br />
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Take Inventory: I've been to a school where I had nothing except some leftover wooden blocks and protocols well beyond their years, and I've been to one with an excess of social skills games that I will never use. Take inventory of what you have (activities, test kits, books), and make note of what you need. You don't need it all at once, and you probably don't even know all of what you need now, but it helps to get a list started.<br />
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Collaborate: Whether you work in a small or large district, there are most likely other school psychs. My collaboration with other psychs in my district has varied, from constant, fun and friendly emails, to reaching out only when we have specific questions. Either way, find out who your colleagues are, and say hello...you will definitely need their help at one point or another.<br />
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Figure out a system for note taking and lists: You will be taking a lot of notes as a School Psychologist-notes at meetings, notes from phone calls, notes you feverishly jot on a post it note while running down the hall after a student...Find a system that works for you. Also, find a way that you will write down notes on what you have to do...are you a paper or electronic person? It doesn't have a be a system that works forever, just one that works for you now.<br />
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Set limits on home vs. work: This one is tricky. My first year, and probably most of my second, I decided I would do whatever I needed to finish my job at work. I didn't bring much work home, but I was at work an hour early everyday, and left between 5-6. Oh, and I had an hour commute. Before you get into the year, set limits for yourself on what you want your home/life balance to look like. It probably won't look perfect, but you have the rest of your career to figure it out.<br />
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What advice do you other School Psychs have for "survival'?Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-57935186810287120502018-08-13T18:19:00.002-07:002018-08-13T18:19:36.891-07:005 activities to start off the year!It comes with as much excitement as it does impending stress of the morning routine of getting yourself and your family out the door and to school on time (no, just me?)...the start of the school year!<br />
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This year comes with some significant changes for me, so I wanted to keep <i>some things </i>consistent, and I am planning to use some of my "go to" activities for the beginning of the year. I thought I would share them with you all today.<br />
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At the start of the year, I run all of my "first" groups/sessions the same way:<br />
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1. A quick introduction/catch up (Because you NEED to know how a 3rd grader's first sleep away camp experience was ASAP!!)<br />
2. A review of expected behaviors & group structure<br />
3. A review of my reward system<br />
4. A fun activity to kick off the year! Here are my favorites that require little prep:<br />
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1. Create art to share about summer<br />
For my youngest students, I ask them to draw a picture of their summer, or have them fill out a very general activity like <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Activity-Sample-Freebie-About-Me-Summer-2640329">this one</a>. This works for kids who are hesitant to talk or share, at first, as well. <br />
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2. A "Getting to Know You" board game<br />
I love a good "Getting to know you" board game. I have a bunch of blank game boards that I use, and pick a bunch of "<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Getting-to-Know-You-Questions-3232196">getting to know you" questions</a>. Kids roll a dice, and then answer a question about themselves before they can move. One secret I discovered last year: letting kids pick a lego figure instead of boring old game pieces makes any board game 1000x more exciting!<br />
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3. Turn a board game into a sharing game<br />
I also use "getting to know you" questions with typical board games such as Jenga or Candyland (here is a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SpPMn-QwXLrSSImBxfUT_UFhLkPW_gn1/view?usp=sharing">key </a>I made for this game)<br />
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4. "All About Me" Art<br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Doodle-Notes-All-About-ME-FREEBIE-by-Science-Math-Doodles-1395768">This</a> all about me activity is my favorite. I use it with 2nd graders and older and over the course of a few sessions. I like it because it's cartoon-ish, and lends itself to drawing or writing. This also gives me a few talking points for students making "connections" with each other later in the year. <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Free-All-About-Me-Worksheet-1946275">Here</a> is a more basic one for younger kiddos as well.<br />
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5. 2 Truths and a Dream<br />
This one is fun for a "larger" (3+ students), and a group who is older, or a student who could use some support in telling the truth. You model, and then have each student take turns telling three things about themselves-two that are true now, and then one that is a dream. So I might say, "I have two daughters, this summer I traveled to Italy for a month, and I woke up at 4:45 this morning. Which one is my dream and which are truths?"<br />
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What do you do during your first sessions of the year?Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-74970212526843235252018-02-22T16:44:00.000-08:002018-02-22T16:44:46.781-08:00What do School Psychologists do?One of the questions I often get from those studying school psychology, or just wondering about the profession, is "What exactly do you do?" Although the way schools in my area are designed, require a lot of responsibilities, I also like it, because there is flexibility in the job, and no one day is ever the same. So without further ado-<br />
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<b>Conduct Psychoeducational Evaluations</b><br />
I test all students that are being considered for special education services, as well as do triennial evaluations, and all in between.<br />
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<b>Write IEP Goals & Objectives</b><br />
I write goals and objectives for social skills/counseling for all students that get these services on their IEPs.<br />
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<b>Design Behavior Plans</b><br />
I write behavior plans for students in need, usually in collaboration with classroom teachers. In my last district, I wrote FBA's, but I don't have to do that now!<br />
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<b>Case Manage/Administrative Duties</b><br />
As a school psych, I case manage all 504 plans, meaning all the paperwork, meetings, etc. that goes along with them. I also have a lot of administrative duties tied to the RTI behavior process.<br />
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<b>Attend Meetings</b><br />
I spend A LOT of time in meetings. PPT meetings, 504 meetings, meetings for students in intervention, parent meetings, internal team meetings, you name it, I've been to that meeting.<br />
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<b>Provide social skills/counseling services to individuals and groups</b><br />
To balance out all those meetings, I spend a good chunk of my time providing those services outlined on IEPs and 504 plans. I see some students weekly, some twice weekly, and others every day!<br />
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<b>Consult with Teachers & Parents</b><br />
When I was in graduate school, I enjoyed my class on consultation, but I didn't really get the importance of consultation until I started working on my own. I love giving suggestions to teachers about dealing with different students, but I also enjoy helping teachers and parents come up with ways they can help students.<br />
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<b>Manage Student Behaviors </b><br />
Day to day, I am the go to person for behaviors of students I have on my caseload, and regular education students in the school. Student crying for no reason? Fighting at recess? Needs a break from peers? I'm your go-to gal.<br />
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And that, in a nutshell, is what I spend most of my time doing in my current role as a school psych. Since I know already that this varies, I'd love to hear what everyone else does!<br />
<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-51275076080417647442018-02-20T19:13:00.002-08:002018-02-20T19:13:56.968-08:00We are the helpers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was not even four months into being a School Psychologist when the tragic event in another elementary school, a few towns over, changed my outlook on my career, and all aspects of my life. Our jobs as School Psychologists, counselors, teachers, and listening ears, is more important than ever.</div>
<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-2320290567973006892017-11-07T12:38:00.002-08:002017-11-07T12:38:12.040-08:00On balancing it all...When I started writing on this blog, and creating things for websites about these things 2 years ago, my career was <i>my life</i>. Which was totally awesome at the time, and the "season of life" that I was in. I got to work an hour before I had to be there, and stayed late every day. As a new career psychologist, I was passionate about creating things that I could use in my practice. I <i>loved</i> my job. <br />
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Then, I became a Mom. I was still, of course, a school psychologist, but now I was a wife, Mom, sister, friend, etc. <i>and</i> a school psychologist, and Momming takes up a lot of time. My priority quickly changed from my career to my child. On maternity leave, I was able to check out of the office easier than I thought I would. When I went back to work, I was able to leave at the end of the school day (not hours later), with less guilt than I would have thought.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My happy place</td></tr>
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I still love being a school psychologist. I think it is the best job, and especially the best job for a working Mom. But the truth is, my family has grown even more now, and I'm choosing to dedicate less of my free time to school psychology right now, and that also means this blog.<br />
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So maybe I will still share some of my school psychology experience, maybe I'll shift to more of a working Mom perspective, but I just wanted to give an update. I hope you continue to use the resources here!<br />
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<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-39580437071791078382017-08-18T05:30:00.000-07:002017-08-18T05:30:13.337-07:00Work/Life Balance as a school psychologistBefore I was a school psychologist, I worked in social work with an intense population, so working in a stressful position was not new to me. I remember the day that I first broke down during my first year as a school psych. Luckily, I had an amazing special education support team there, and I remember one of the special ed teachers telling it was alright-I was doing a great job, and this showed it. I've learned through the years that being a school psychologist isn't an easy job-but honestly, very few people I know are not stressed by their job at one or another. There are ebbs and flows, but in the end, this is a great career. So, let's talk about work/life balance as school psychologists today.<br />
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Obviously, I am not an expert in this area, I'm still learning, and with another baby on the way, I'm about to drop all my balls and try to juggle them again. I wanted to share today though, how I've become more positive about my work life balance, and especially, hear from other people-you guys! What works for you?<br />
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<b>1. Make some definitive limits for yourself between home and school. (Turn off your email on your phone & Set time limits for yourself)</b><br />
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In the first district I worked in, it was common to have your work email on your phone and iPad. It was especially helpful for me because I wasn't often in my office, but I could carry my calendar and email with me around the school. I would answer frantic parent emails at 10 pm. I remember one of my coworkers telling me she never checked her email at home, or responded to a parent after 5 and thinking <i>I could never do that</i>. Then one year, I had a really tough case. The parents weren't happy, the child was having a lot of issues at school, and there were lots of people from the district involved. Email was the parents main form of complaint, and I would get emails during dinner and right before bedtime. I was already stressed coming home from the day, and then this just continued it into my personal life. That's when I took stopped my email from pushing to my iPhone. <br />
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A year later, I had a baby to come home to. I was busting my behind at work all day long to get everything done, and often only looked at my phone once a day to check in on my daughter. When I got home, I didn't want to spend time on work, and that's when I stopped checking work emails at home. It's been rough, but it's been <i>the best</i>.<br />
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I also find that it's helpful (and necessary) to set hours for myself at work. Even before I had kids, I had a long commute home, and the later I stayed at school, the longer it would take me to get home. So, I picked one or two days where I could stay late, and that was it. <br />
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<b>2. Give yourself grace when the above doesn't work out.</b><br />
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Sure, it's easy to say pack up at 4:15 and head home everyday, and I can do this 80% of the time. But, sometimes, I have a parent coming in to review a report the next day, and I've only written the background section when the day before is ending. On those days, I say "oops, quick dinner tonight!", I go home, feed my family, and break out my laptop, and I remind myself that these days are fleeting, and this will not be my life everyday. <br />
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<b>3. Prioritize.</b><br />
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One of our administrators once had the psychs in my district write down all of our responsibilities-every little thing we were responsible for-and then we picked out those were the most important. You guys, there was <i>a lot </i>on that paper. We often want to do it all, but you need to prioritize in order to do your best. In this season of my career, I prioritize my testing and IEP counseling students. If I'm testing a student, I turn off my walkie talkie, and put up a testing sign on my door. If a student needs someone to talk to during that time, the secretary knows I'm not available. What you need to dedicate your time to will vary over the year, but make sure you know what that is.<br />
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<b>4. Work hard when you are at work.</b><br />
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This sounds silly, but here me out. If you want to balance work and life, you have to go full-force when you are at work. When I first started out and had the time, I would get to work an hour before school started, and often sit and chat with one of my coworkers over our morning coffee. It was distressful for me and a nice way to start the day. Now, things are a little different. I arrive to school 30 minutes before I'm required to, immediately open up my email, and go go go. If I know I need to leave right after the kids do one day, I work through lunch. I know this isn't ideal, but it's just to say, think about how you are spending your work days, and how you can better manage your time.<br />
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<b>5. De-stress and treat yo' self!</b><br />
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We preach calming tools all day long, but how often do we use them ourselves? This past year, I made an effort to use the mindfulness techniques I was teaching my students more often in my life-both personal and professional, and I find myself 5-finger breathing on a regular basis now! Do yoga, go out to dinner, sing loudly in the car on the ride home, grab an irrationally expensive latte when you know you are doing to have a long day. Don't forget to spoil yourself!<br />
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So, what are some of your secrets for balancing it all? I'd love to know!Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-20201048340979822382017-08-15T12:56:00.001-07:002017-08-15T12:56:47.173-07:00Back to School ShoppingThis year, I am in no way ready to go back to school in a few weeks. I figure I will ease my way into things by starting off with some back to school shopping. What's on your list?? Here's mine!<br />
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1. A calendar: I use my computer/phone/ipad for daily scheduling in life and in work, but every year I treat myself to a brand-spankin'-new calendar to hang in my office, where I write down the general school calendar. I'm pretty particular about my calendars, and pretty much only find ones I love at Target. This year I'm eyeing <a href="https://www.target.com/p/2017-2018-ashley-g-academic-wall-calendar-painterly/-/A-52398109#lnk=sametab">this one</a> and <a href="https://www.target.com/p/2017-2018-ashley-g-academic-wall-calendar-gold-edged/-/A-52398107#lnk=sametab">this one</a>. Tip: Get one early, they are usually gone by the beginning of the school year. <br />
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2. Restocking some old games/activities: My Don't Break the Ice has broken beyond repair, and I have a few others who are on their last leg, so I need to restock on a couple.<br />
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3. Folders: A few years ago, I started keeping all my kids' activities for group in <a href="https://www.target.com/p/plastic-folder-2-pocket-up-up-153/-/A-23974599#lnk=sametab&preselect=17079615">these plastic folders</a>. I have one for each student that I write their name on, and these things are pretty much kid proof. I keep them for each student from year to year, but need to stock up for new students. <br />
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4. Prizes: The pickings from my prize box were looking pretty slim at the end of the year, so it's time to restock those too. My favorite places to shop for prizes are the Target dollar bins, and favors section at the party store!<br />
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5. A new coffee mug: Silly, but every year I like to get the year off to a fresh start by spoiling myself with a new travel coffee mug. It gets cold fast here in New England!Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-35845013860208162912017-08-09T07:18:00.000-07:002017-08-10T04:35:19.462-07:00 Calming Down Boxes<b><i>A note: Hey guys! One of the posts here I get the most questions on is my post of the classroom (really, school wide!!) Calming Down Boxes I created 2 years ago, so I wanted to share it again today, with some updates and tips at the end (also, my beloved Office Playground online store closed down, so I updated some links as well. This post now contains some affiliate links) Enjoy!</i></b><br />
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This past year, my focus and goal throughout the year was our school climate program. I really tried to put a lot into getting it going, and getting the entire school involved.<br />
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I really wanted our program to be a positive one, focusing on recognizing the positive that students were doing, and teaching appropriate coping skills. Teaching 400+ kiddos coping skills is no joke though. We had lots of assemblies to celebrate their work and teach them some, but we wanted something for them to be using everyday.</div>
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Throughout the few years teaching kids, I began to collect lots of <span style="color: purple;">Calming Down Tools </span>that I kept in my office. They were things from the dollar bin at target, some I ordered online, and some we had crafted in group. Throughout the years, I began to notice that my supply quickly dissipated because I was always giving them out to teachers and kiddos in need.</div>
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I was happy to do it, and found it was easy to find lots of ideas for different "kit" ideas through Pinterest and Google. I started to notice, however, that after a few months of having these boxes in the classroom, that students other than my own were utilizing them just as much.</div>
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I had an idea to make a calming box for each classroom, but quickly realized this was a pretty large expense. Luckily, I applied and was approved for a grant to create one for every classroom. Soon, I had turned the conference room into this:</div>
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After assembling each of the boxes, I handed them out to teachers and explained what they were. At a school climate assembly, I introduced them to the kiddos and had students demonstrate how to use each one. I'm happy with the end result! Even if some of the teachers might not buy into it, I like that all of my students have the opportunity to practice appropriate coping skills any time. I made sure to make one for not only the classroom teachers, but specialists (everyone fro the reading teacher to the music teacher), got one.</div>
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So, what makes a calming down box? I think just a wide variety of tools is helpful, but here is what I included in mine:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGcg5Ybu06OdTqQDH2JJJyjMYY_nsewlKq0x4niYEZop45wKlrI3Ks3eXFQIJrw_SjU8nnx4kk9otMoos4-sj02mhWjbzaGbqKZnIrO3Pa4nWFstABZwac8y0GuHtxmoOnYWhEHnQSs1J/s1600/IMG_5108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGcg5Ybu06OdTqQDH2JJJyjMYY_nsewlKq0x4niYEZop45wKlrI3Ks3eXFQIJrw_SjU8nnx4kk9otMoos4-sj02mhWjbzaGbqKZnIrO3Pa4nWFstABZwac8y0GuHtxmoOnYWhEHnQSs1J/s400/IMG_5108.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C4C995S/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01C4C995S&linkCode=as2&tag=illyhomestkin-20&linkId=8fe3686bee407c6aeaa58dbc06e2ce59%22%3ESand%20Timer%20Set%20(2%20Min)%20Large%2010pcs%20Pack%20-%20Colorful%20Set%20of%20Two%20Minutes%20Hour%20Glasses%20for%20Kids%20-%20Color:%20Blue,%20Green,%20Red%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=illyhomestkin-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B01C4C995S%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">A 2-minute sand timer</a>: I figured 2 minutes was an appropriate time to spend in the calming down spot.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.trainerswarehouse.com/klixx-fiddle-toy-32-links.html?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Feed&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=NB_PLA_Shopping_GOOG&utm_content=DsYqxToq_pcrid_42953018418_pkw__pmt__pdv_c&&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5arMBRDzARIsAAqmJeyuIfLjWfJnKALZmidx7YXn2WCm5MQfRCd791fRJmgwmuzvniPkUXIaAtJAEALw_wcB">Klixx fidget</a>: I love these things. They are my go-to "fidget item"!</li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=illyhomestkin-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01KKVBZG6&asins=B01KKVBZG6&linkId=c495922ed99b4a9650d98b69aecd8071&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=false&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff%22%3E%20%20%20%20%20%3C/iframe%3E">Earth Stress Ball</a> & <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WH60N8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004WH60N8&linkCode=as2&tag=illyhomestkin-20&linkId=7c14ddbe1fd5a13f26b592cd149a2260%22%3ERhode%20Island%20Novelty%205%20Inch%20PUFFER%20BALL%20(12-Pack)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=illyhomestkin-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B004WH60N8%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">A Puffer Squeeze Ball</a>: Kids LOVE the puffer ones and they are always at the $ bin at Target. I replace them regularly because they get used so much!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/purple-pinwheels-a2-13627048.fltr?prodCatId=550216">Plastic Pinwheels</a>: These help kids to practice their deep breathing for calming down</li>
<li>A piece of paper and pencil or crayons for students to "draw it out"</li>
<li>A laminated sheet that gives a quick overview of all of the tools (see my free one <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cool-Down-Spot-Choices-2017689" target="_blank">here</a>)</li>
<li>I put everything together in <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/s/closet/shoe-storage/shelf/123?productId=10001753">these plastic shoeboxes</a>.</li>
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The process of planning these out and putting them together took months, but I'm happy that each room in the school has one to use now and my kiddos can practice their coping skills all day long!</div>
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<b>A few (updated) notes:</b><br />
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<li><b>Funding: I applied for a grant for these boxes through the Special Education PTA in my district. I typed up a written proposal, and it helped that I had one already created that was in use. To replenish supplies throughout the years, I have used both some of my own funds, and also some that I've gotten from school. The cost for doing them school wide (around $250 for just under 40 boxes, with lots of discounts for buying in bulk).</b></li>
<li><b>I've made some additions, depending on what works. I always keep on of my beloved <a href="https://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2017/06/calming-tool-diy-glitter-jar.html">Calming Down Glitter Bottles</a> in here, and look for fun new updates on fidgets and stress relievers (the lego is my favorite)</b></li>
<li><b>I also keep a plastic box of Kinetic Sand with this calming tools box. I don't think this would be the most effective for the classroom, but for small offices and rooms, kids love it!</b></li>
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What do you have in your calming down toolkit?<br />
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<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 203px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 2921px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 203px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 2921px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><br />
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My answer is that I'm a believer that there is no "perfect" job out there. Being a school psychologist is by no means easy, but it is <i> so worth it</i>. <br />
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Today I thought I'd share 5 of the best things about being a School Psych, and 5 things that are tough for me, personally. In the end, I think it is a GREAT career, especially for a working mom. Always feel free to reach out with any questions you might have!<br />
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1. <b>You get to watch kids grow from year to year. </b> This is probably my FAVORITE thing about this job. I remember at my last school (which I loved), I would think every year if the next one would be the one where I looked for a job closer to my home. Every time I'd think that though, there'd always be at least one kid that I'd want to see graduate before I left. There is something so special about developing a relationship with a student for years, and being a person that can offer insight into their history and needs<br />
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2. <b>You get to make your own schedule</b> (for the most part). I know this varies by state, district, and even school. I've had both ends of the spectrum-principals who fully trusted in me to get things done, and those who wanted to know who I was seeing and when. Still, for the most part, I get to determine when I see groups, when I meet with parents, etc., and I like being able to have that control of my day.<br />
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3. <b>You get to be someone's <i>person.</i></b> As a school psychologist, no doubt you will be entrusted in some capacity with helping out with a difficult student-someone who needs extra attention, support and strategies. As school psychs, we get to be that listening person, when it seems like home life and school life and too hard, you get to be the one that says "come on it, let's just sit and play a game-maybe we'll talk?", and get that student to open up.<br />
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4. <b>You get to know everyone in the school. </b> I love this about my job. I love that the gym teacher counts on me as much as the special education does. <br />
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5. <b>You get to help solve the mystery.</b> I know every school psych has their opinion on assessments and testing. I'm lucky enough that I've been able to balance doing psychoeducational assessments with other parts of my job, so that I haven't gotten too overwhelmed with them. Being able to be the person that helps figure out <i>why</i> a student isn't progressing in one area of another is often well received by my parents and teachers that it makes me feel like I'm helping them in one way or another.<br />
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1. <b>There's just not enough time in the day.</b> Kids these days have a lot on their plate. And so many children in schools could benefit from extra lunch bunches, or friendship groups or problem solving strategies that I honestly think I could have 2 of me in my current school, and find work to do.<br />
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2. <b>You're the only one of you around. </b> Again, this varies by district, but I've always felt a little jealous of the special education teachers, classroom teachers, etc. who have grade level partnerships that they can bounce ideas off of. I've had awesome special education team members, and a great support system in my last district, but sometimes I wish I could just walk across the hall and ask another psychologist what their thoughts are on an assessment. In both my jobs I've had social workers that have been at my placements 1-2 days a week, but I always wish they were there full-time!</div>
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3. <b>You are often asked to make some difficult decisions. </b> Along with our training as school psychologists comes the knowledge that many other staff aren't prepared with, so when it comes time to weigh in on special education eligibility, or a difficult family case, it can be emotionally draining to be the person that has to make that decision.<br />
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4. <b>You have to work with everyone.</b> Just as I mentioned above that you get to know and work with everyone in the school setting, this can also be tough. You learn to adapt and manage difficult relationships with teacher, staff and parents, and in the end, do what's best for your students.<br />
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5. <b>You sometimes have to defend your decisions.</b> It's not often that you have cases where attorneys or advocates are involved, but when there are, it can be tough. It took me a few years of developing tougher skin, and not taking questions or criticism of my work personally. In the end, parents and teams all want what is best for these kiddos, but that doesn't necessarily mean we all agree on what that is ;)<br />
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What do you guys think are the best and toughest parts of this job?</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-65383147512795673442017-06-18T17:50:00.000-07:002017-06-18T17:50:43.467-07:00Interviewing for School Psychologist PositionsLast month I talked about <a href="http://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2017/05/how-i-became-school-psychologist.html" target="_blank">how I became a School Psychologist</a>. I know that there are a bunch of fresh new school psychs out there, fresh out of school (Congratulations!!!!), so I wanted to share a bit about my experience interviewing, and some tips I have.<br />
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Some background: I'm a School Psychologist in New England. I interviewed for my first job 5 years ago, and started in a new district this past year, due to too long of a commute, and a growing family.<br />
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<b>1. Be choosey</b><br />
This isn't for everyone, but I'm sharing <i>my experience</i> today. When I graduated, some of my classmates began applying to every district that showed a school psychology position. They wanted jobs, and fast. I had interned in a great district, and knew that I had worked hard in school, and was a good candidate. I also though, didn't want a job just anywhere. I wanted to work in only one school (not terribly difficult around where I live), and I had a list of about 8-10 districts that I wanted to, with a definite top 3. I knew, from family and friends, that many school positions posted at the end of the summer, when education budgets began, and others found jobs. I was patient, and in the end ended up only getting interviews in 2 districts. It paid off though, because I ended up getting a position in the district I interned it, my top choice, and I loved working there.<br />
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<b>2. Bring a portfolio</b><br />
As part of our classes in grad school, we put together a portfolio of information-everything from our philosophy of school psychology and child development, to work samples. I'm not sure if some of it got looked at the first go around, but I did feel like it was helpful enough that I updated my portfolio before interviewing again this past summer.<br />
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<b>3. Bring extra copies of the important things</b><br />
Aside from the portfolio, which really, the interview team will have only a few minutes to look over, I like to be generally over prepared, and bring along extra copies of my resume, and a sample report, plus maybe 1-2 other things (written references, etc.) in a folder that I can give to the school. You never know what information they will have, and it's nice for them to be able to look back and have something to reference.<br />
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<b>4. Be over prepared</b><br />
In all of my experience interviewing teachers, paraprofessionals and more, since I was hired at my first job, I never have thought "Wow, he/she was totally over prepared-terrible!". So my advice is, wear the outfit you think might be a little too formal, bring the portfolio even though it makes you look over prepared, and ask lots of questions. School Psychologists have to juggle a lot in their jobs, and this is your first impression!<br />
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<b>5. Think about potential questions ahead of time</b><br />
<a href="http://legacy.fordham.edu/images/student_services/career/grad_ed_handouts/selected%20interview%20questions%20for%20school%20psych.pdf" target="_blank">This list</a> from Fordham is lengthy, but covers a lot. I wouldn't say you need to have an answer for all of these, but you do want to think about questions that will most likely come up-Why do you want to be a school psychologist? What are you strengths and weaknesses? Also, be prepared to share examples from your internship and other experiences. I also feel terrible when we ask a question like "Tell us about a crisis or stressful situation and how you handled it", and people get too nervous to think of something. Think of a few students ahead of time whom you have worked with, that you can relate things to.<br />
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<b>6. Be familiar with assessments</b><br />
Schools and districts don't always ask about this, but some do, and because it's difficult to think on the spot (see above!), it can be helpful to just brainstorm in your head, what assessments you are familiar with. One position I interviewed for was a preschool one, and when they asked this question, I felt like I could have researched a little more beforehand. Then again, the answer "I'm not sure, but I'm willing to learn whatever I need to", is a great one.<br />
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<b>7. Research the district or school(s)</b><br />
Now that everyone has websites, it's pretty easy to go on and get some general information on who you are hoping to work with? Is if a large district with many schools? Do they have an overarching academic philosophy? It never hurts to do a little research beforehand.<br />
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<b>8. Network</b><br />
Like any job you are trying to get, it helps to know someone. If for nothing else, but that that person can speak to your strengths: "Yes, Cara worked with my son, she is great with kids!". Don't be afraid to contact those who might work in the same district or school to ask if they know if there are any positions available.<br />
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<b>9. Know the lingo</b><br />
If I started a random conversation at a family gathering about IEP's, RTI and 504's, people might think I'm speaking a different language. But it doesn't hurt to speak to what you know in education, and be familiar with all of these terms (and brush up on them, if necessary).<br />
be comfortable talking about RI< IEP etc.<br />
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<b>10. Have questions yourself</b><br />
In every interview for any job I've been on, the last thing is always some version of "What questions do you have for us?", and you should have some! I've written them down beforehand at times, and others, just had them in my head. A lot of times, many of them have been asked already, but I have one or two that haven't been. And if not, I make them up on the spot.<br />
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What other advice do you have for scoring the first school psychology job?<br />
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<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-65395553620817932782017-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:002017-06-12T17:33:46.819-07:00Maternity Leave/ Substitute NotesI realize this topic isn't relevant for everyone, but when I was putting together information for my first maternity leave, I couldn't find much in the area of Psychologist/Counseling staff leave notes.<br />
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I'm expecting my second baby this Fall, but it seems like I was just preparing for my first! Before I went out on my first maternity leave, like everything else in my career, I overplanned. I left a detailed binder of notes and information. I reviewed it with my closest staff, and my scheduled substitute before I went out. And then, my sub left after a few weeks, a second came sparingly, and then, in the end, I don't think anyone opened the binder. Oh well.<br />
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Here's the information I included and plan to do again:<br />
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<li><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">School Information</span>: I know from experience how embarrassing it is to be leaving someone a voicemail about realizing you have know idea what your school's phone number is just as you are about to ask them to call you back! Also, information like the school schedule, classes schedule, and a map of the school.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">School Staff</span>:I left a list of core staff and how their roles worked with mine. The principal, the secretary who schedules meetings, the school nurse who I work closely with on 504's, etc.</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Special Education Staff</span>: At both schools I have worked at, there has been a range of staff that work in the buildings full time (Sped Teachers), and those who work at multiple schools (OT's, PT's, SLP's), so I wanted to outline that information of who is who, and when they are at my school.</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">A "Where's that?"guide to my office</span>: where I keep student files, testing protocols, activities for groups, etc.</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">How to access the calendar of meetings and how to schedule them/who to invite</span>: School Psychologists are never in short supply of meetings to attend, so having those specific dates lined up really helped. At my last school, we scheduled all meetings at the beginning of the year. They don't do that at my school now, so I think I will just leave a general list of when all annual and triennials are due.</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Responsibilities at other meeting</span>s: PPT meetings, 504's, parent meetings, meetings for intervention students, they all work differently and my role is different at each, so I made sure to leave notes about that for my sub.</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Information about students</span>: I left a list of students I see regularly and a sentence or two about each. I also left copies of each student's social skills goals/504 plan/behavior plan, in a binder. When I arrived at my new school this year, the transition psychologist had left notes for me and it was so helpful to reflect on as I started working with students and wanted to sort out who was who!</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Testing</span>: Even though I do it all year long, I have at least 3 hidden post-it notes of scoring software logins or instructions in my desk. This one is online, this one you need the USB before, this one I only have paper forms for...</li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">Weekly Plans</span>:I left just a few weeks of plans for my sub, whether she wanted to use them or not, I felt like it would be helpful of "where to start??" This included my weekly schedule.</li>
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Any other suggestions? I always like to start slowly putting things together a few months before, so this is on my "to do" list for the summer! Other things that I felt were helpful were drafting a letter to parents (that I sent via email) to all the parents whose children I saw or case managed, letting them know the approximate date I was leaving. My last piece of advice would be that for no matter the reason you are taking a leave of absence, decide ahead of time, and discuss with your supervisor, how much/if you will be checking in when you leave. If there is a important question, who should contact you? I was glad I did this ahead of time.</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-21962732804452403122017-06-07T16:06:00.000-07:002017-06-07T16:11:33.945-07:00Using Google Drive for session notes, contact logs and more!A while back I wrote a post on using Google Drive to track student data and more. I've just wrapped up my third year of keeping track of things this day. Documentation is still no fun, and I'm not perfect, but Google Drive is my favorite way to do so. I figured I would share the documents I use now for all to benefit from!<br />
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Some of the top reasons I love it?<br />
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<li>As School Psychologists, we are never in one place, so I love this method because it's convenient. I can enter data from my desktop right after a phone call, on my iPad during a meeting or right after a session, or from home. </li>
<li>I can't lose it. How many times do you write notes down from a meeting and then can't find them afterwards? Ooomph.</li>
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I had been working on this from day one, and never found a solution. I needed a way of documenting my "regular" kids I see, but also, all the other kids, and parent phone calls and meetings. I had tried notebooks for everything, binders for each kid, marking a time for it on my calendar, folders, creating my own forms, and a spreadsheet on my computer, but nothing was successful. The main reason? It wasn't accessible when I needed it. Truth be told, as much as I would love to get all my paperwork done at school, sometimes I just can't. And by the time I returned, I had something else to do and had forgotten about it.<br />
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Here are my go-to forms that I use all the time. If you click on them, it will create a copy of your own!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWNGZeugkeVGzxAlVh9CpH50JoMxNMPP_pjCzjbW6e5vXcBBmI7Rv-QCwxQ9biduuYIsbQcvpKdGS6QsZ3gSzGuHdQIYf5kia03RTPopf9AQMzS8P_BvB7JrEoFWjB67cdNj-R5rp_rse8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-06-04+at+9.33.15+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="1273" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWNGZeugkeVGzxAlVh9CpH50JoMxNMPP_pjCzjbW6e5vXcBBmI7Rv-QCwxQ9biduuYIsbQcvpKdGS6QsZ3gSzGuHdQIYf5kia03RTPopf9AQMzS8P_BvB7JrEoFWjB67cdNj-R5rp_rse8/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-06-04+at+9.33.15+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u style="color: #0000ee;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1JX710Qd4b31SZYw6OG6XSkb5V8Ps_1l_sVN_1nsHxjg/copy?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Observation Checklist</a></u></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1xCO27wMO2ag6_GZrWpIEi80_rvDokrlZJDXFog0-EoM/copy?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Non-Routine Student Counseling</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCWjc90bxzjLknIjkgBKtxwCsJx2OM7Tg5S3n0xHWfw6Y9ek2eMk5GbckFPHqB5BVH_xgTr89urxRDH__TNfQP1WI9NNm_tFPKrUzwzXhx2Gwi2uxFsOlbreJW4Xlxr0ziCPGOM6CpVvs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-06-04+at+9.35.30+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="1035" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCWjc90bxzjLknIjkgBKtxwCsJx2OM7Tg5S3n0xHWfw6Y9ek2eMk5GbckFPHqB5BVH_xgTr89urxRDH__TNfQP1WI9NNm_tFPKrUzwzXhx2Gwi2uxFsOlbreJW4Xlxr0ziCPGOM6CpVvs/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-06-04+at+9.35.30+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Q0gK7UuRUuo-tHMUVsoDVuviYb9M9jbMlG3RTNdppSQ/copy?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Meeting/Phone Call Notes</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnvVyHU588QqnaBuRlN2I78Cy4P8OQ2UfCRa602V0hQy_E_lK9iHW5mWY7Mv_UJ_3a6AgOS_i7-q2UxeoRhBahKqKc6e6gAH3eYSPHILVCok0VLmNbn1V7HZfFVCeM8RemR9PphIpKQE6X/s1600/Screen+Shot+2017-06-04+at+9.40.39+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="1117" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnvVyHU588QqnaBuRlN2I78Cy4P8OQ2UfCRa602V0hQy_E_lK9iHW5mWY7Mv_UJ_3a6AgOS_i7-q2UxeoRhBahKqKc6e6gAH3eYSPHILVCok0VLmNbn1V7HZfFVCeM8RemR9PphIpKQE6X/s640/Screen+Shot+2017-06-04+at+9.40.39+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ZJ5WHH_rxjgWPeSrvl15xySaK8gdgCgMf_1hEOb1qgY/copy?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Sample (IEP) student session notes</a></div>
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Here is how to create your own:</div>
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Log into your <a href="https://drive.google.com/">google drive </a>account, or start one for yourself (I actually created one just for school, so I could keep things separate). Click on the "Create" button in the left hand corner, and choose "form".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CBHwlmHOLuOJNa74yLRmWqnKm5aa7QsRyz19O8Rf6w6lzu2aSxeMcbJ4jmAySd8qX_1LlkpHI3kt_G0D-Vq8Hl0coKnlLHjZaFyDjC87DGysh-4csgirIboLZXdQE_lwG_gjRsItAWV-/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CBHwlmHOLuOJNa74yLRmWqnKm5aa7QsRyz19O8Rf6w6lzu2aSxeMcbJ4jmAySd8qX_1LlkpHI3kt_G0D-Vq8Hl0coKnlLHjZaFyDjC87DGysh-4csgirIboLZXdQE_lwG_gjRsItAWV-/s1600/2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
This will bring you to a brand spankin' new form template where you can name your form. For this example, I'll change the <i>Untitled form </i>name to "Times I See my students" by clicking on the words and typing over them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Rd9KxTydUwqYfX3bxmhr3x9oqkkTaUpoP0f1c3nUOz2F7nZOR6-5wMAqQc2_oKvV0RcQu-Pkdimgc8IP5VDzM1-uVUgAifPiL4X2HYOhzSOStIogvEEIrHpgxCUOh4lUWxkLfyMbwNlV/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Rd9KxTydUwqYfX3bxmhr3x9oqkkTaUpoP0f1c3nUOz2F7nZOR6-5wMAqQc2_oKvV0RcQu-Pkdimgc8IP5VDzM1-uVUgAifPiL4X2HYOhzSOStIogvEEIrHpgxCUOh4lUWxkLfyMbwNlV/s1600/3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then you are free to go on and start creating questions. I always start my forms with the date/time. It just makes things easier and ensures I don't forget. In the box "Question Title" you type the words you want to appear on your form. In this case, still just "date". I don't use the "help text" box, because I'm only using these forms for myself. The "Question Type" is one of my favorite features. You can choose anything that pertains to that question. Here are the ones I use:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY-5F5410YGJm0rjKEO7dmUqoSHqjkXyNLRPFNTOYQMPRMoZd6ybeYnYl36tyWXHcXuqIfienllckis6GGPBU2X5OtWZ8q9QZAvq-Vh-W7tI7hbDrTueQyBK9_cXF_GQk_Bngslg7W8Pp/s1600/5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY-5F5410YGJm0rjKEO7dmUqoSHqjkXyNLRPFNTOYQMPRMoZd6ybeYnYl36tyWXHcXuqIfienllckis6GGPBU2X5OtWZ8q9QZAvq-Vh-W7tI7hbDrTueQyBK9_cXF_GQk_Bngslg7W8Pp/s1600/5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Date: </b>when, of course, I need to mark the date. I also check the box that says "time". </div>
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<b>Text: </b>a short text box. Helpful for the name of a student, or a "follow up" box</div>
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<b>Paragraph Text:</b> for summaries of interaction with students, phone calls, etc. Any time I will be using a lot of text.</div>
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<b>Multiple Choice: </b> when you only need the option to choose one thing (ex: setting...group or individual). Make sure to check the "add other" feature here, in case there are those times that none of the choices quite fit!</div>
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<b>Checkboxes: </b>when you need to make multiple choices (ex: for my phone call/meeting form, I have parent, student, teacher, etc. on there). </div>
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After you are finished with your question, click the "add item" to add to the next question.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDZCLDDMj4LTIlIhXjz6ld6giou1Vk5pCNc7rhaQ235OOZVJH468j-31uxmjVWIM80lKMWf2kwXZibRcr9jMVdYngOrVMy7e2DC6ejHHtZE4BEEHcoXydlprVRy14BGRFagK9JVApHEJD/s1600/6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDZCLDDMj4LTIlIhXjz6ld6giou1Vk5pCNc7rhaQ235OOZVJH468j-31uxmjVWIM80lKMWf2kwXZibRcr9jMVdYngOrVMy7e2DC6ejHHtZE4BEEHcoXydlprVRy14BGRFagK9JVApHEJD/s1600/6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can completely customize the questions to your needs. Here is what I include in some samples of my 3 main types of docs I use:</div>
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<b>Non-IEP student: </b>Date, Student Name, Setting, Reason for Referral, Summary of Incident, Follow-up Required</div>
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<b>Meeting Notes: </b> Date, Student, People spoken to, Summary of call/meeting, follow up needed</div>
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<b>Student Data: </b> Date, Summary, setting, a question for each goal/objective I have.</div>
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Once you are done, scroll to the top of the page and click "view live form".</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3cZZElazuMG6piIXN4wbp83ZWJlGrE6sG2wPA6SNDjBynsMtwa3U7seuFTWqi32h39A176AGfp-29-BXpe0QTOJcB29HjwTIKWw8hwipXcjw-SnsIN4yRq9lOChLIkWoN2TSGG0wzwal/s1600/8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3cZZElazuMG6piIXN4wbp83ZWJlGrE6sG2wPA6SNDjBynsMtwa3U7seuFTWqi32h39A176AGfp-29-BXpe0QTOJcB29HjwTIKWw8hwipXcjw-SnsIN4yRq9lOChLIkWoN2TSGG0wzwal/s1600/8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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This will take you to your very own form (you can also change the theme and make it colorful and pretty if you'd like). <b>Save the link to this document! </b>You can always go back to it, but saving this link on my computer favorites and iPad allows me to quickly bring it up anytime I need it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiayN-BOQ5ioH1t904h8ZV8o1sXn-5HvhCy-hznwfX0wCiD93ix0CVzLtwYBYdsTgfjIp5xg-RBBKKAuiPr1IKcldjYzaDiW5-KhySLUS537iDdpMzuhoje1Chfh0NYbvfD2GxM6UxIRi/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-29+at+9.50.46+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiayN-BOQ5ioH1t904h8ZV8o1sXn-5HvhCy-hznwfX0wCiD93ix0CVzLtwYBYdsTgfjIp5xg-RBBKKAuiPr1IKcldjYzaDiW5-KhySLUS537iDdpMzuhoje1Chfh0NYbvfD2GxM6UxIRi/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-29+at+9.50.46+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Enter data whenever you see fit and submit. Viola! There it is! All your data is then saved securely in google drive, where you can access it when you need it. To create a spreadsheet of your responses, go back to your editable form and click "view responses", where you will be taken to a Google Doc spreadsheet of your responses.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQcrDmfKEAyLHdyhppyQ6DEBaBXXope04-JU7Kuy7RCnb4ZdMHtyq-oErE7-fn10OOLuGvMP7D9YpMFtEubWnYp-8fvdSxF247Y9LJvJ4XPGsIzpqrtM3t3fCDmqmde6BN8SV_PAUqdw7/s1600/9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQcrDmfKEAyLHdyhppyQ6DEBaBXXope04-JU7Kuy7RCnb4ZdMHtyq-oErE7-fn10OOLuGvMP7D9YpMFtEubWnYp-8fvdSxF247Y9LJvJ4XPGsIzpqrtM3t3fCDmqmde6BN8SV_PAUqdw7/s1600/9.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's it! Although it takes a few minutes to set up, I have found that this system is <b>well worth it</b> for the time that it saves me in documentation. I can access these documents from any computer and save the links to the forms anywhere.<br />
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What is your system that works?</div>
Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-15806564686788731832017-06-04T09:36:00.000-07:002017-06-07T16:11:43.768-07:00Writing Psychoeducational ReportsI like doing evaluations are reports. There, I said it. I'm nerdy that way. In fact, one of the reasons that I love school psychology so much is because my job allows me to have the perfect balance of working with kids and getting to help them in a constructive way. Every once in a while, I enjoy closing my office door and (trying to) getting some good 'ol reports out. <a href="http://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2016/05/school-psychologist-getting-started.html" target="_blank">I previously shared</a> how I prepare and organize assessments, but wanted to share how I go about writing them. What do you include in your reports? Any tips? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYo4883L9g5LqRtgYPErBNZvBDtoN5RsMhHfwKtkmmrHrfXc3rV_udZi-RViQQyJQTUApWIn7712IUgqQDQ2Le00BQbpdn93Yz3RXAb0C0xFmbDCbBiwrrCUWAgW-zalFBRm6spu_hUIf/s1600/reports.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYo4883L9g5LqRtgYPErBNZvBDtoN5RsMhHfwKtkmmrHrfXc3rV_udZi-RViQQyJQTUApWIn7712IUgqQDQ2Le00BQbpdn93Yz3RXAb0C0xFmbDCbBiwrrCUWAgW-zalFBRm6spu_hUIf/s1600/reports.jpg" /></a></div>
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Throughout my short career thus far as a school psychologist, I've written my fair share of assessments. I've also defended those assessments to parents and advocates. I've had times where I've surprised myself my knowing my stuff, and times where I realized I really needed to change the way I was writing something or presenting something. I've also had the priveldege of working with many great people who have shared with me what helped them, and ways that I can improve my work. I've listened, and I continue to do so.<br />
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When I first started out, I had a very minimal report template, that I'd then add to when I needed, for different assessments. I quickly realized that for me, this didn't work, because I just couldn't keep track of everything in different files. So, for about 4 years now, I've been using one "monster" template, that has a section for every single assessment or type I do. I save everything that could be deleted or changed in <span style="color: red;">red</span>, and then go through and delete those I don't need. It works for me.<br />
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So, what does my template include?<br />
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<li><b>A letterhead: </b> Depending on your school and district, the information you include will vary-the school name and/or the district name, the school address, etc. and of course, the type of assessment.</li>
<li><b>Student Information: </b> This is where I include name, grades, dates of testing and date of report</li>
<li><b>General Statements</b>: Since the above remains on my reports no matter what type it is, the first thing I do on my evaluations next is including a disclaimer statement about how the evaluation represents the student at <i>this point </i>in time, and although it validly represents the student at that time, things can change over time.</li>
<li><b>List of Assessments: </b> Here I include all the standardized and non-standardized things I have done.</li>
<li><b>Reason for Referral: </b> Why are you doing this evaluation? </li>
<li><b>Background information: </b> A general overview of the student's personal and educational history, especially their participation in intervention services. If I am doing a more in depth developmental history with parents, I will typically incorporate that information here as well.</li>
<li><b>Observations of students in other settings: </b> I do at least one observation of a student in the classroom, resource room, etc. for all of my evaluations, (<a href="http://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2015/08/student-observation-checklist.html" target="_blank">using my student observation checklist)</a> and report on it in this section.</li>
<li><b>Testing observations: </b> How was my rapport with the student? How was their ability to attend during testing? Their stamina? This is where I include all of this and more! Here, I also typically include a paragraph about a student interview if I do one. </li>
<li><b>Assessment Results: </b> The bulk of the report, here is where I break down everything, typically by area such as cognitive measures, social-emotional/behavioral, etc.</li>
<li><b>Summary of results: </b> After all that, its time to answer, "so what does this all mean?" and pull all of that great assessment information you got, together in a great interpretation.</li>
<li><b>Recommendations: </b> This varies by the type of assessment I am writing, and for whom. Sometimes, my recommendations are very general, such as sharing at the PPT, etc., and other times, I try to write specific recommendations for areas of need.</li>
<li><b>A statement of Confidentiality: </b>I typically include this in my general statement, and then mark Confidential on the footer of each page along with the student's name.</li>
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Are all that, here are some other tips I try to remember:</div>
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<li>Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: Everyone does this differently, but my biggest tip is to write your report, and then take a break and come back to it, reading it "fresh" again. I also <i>need</i> to print mine out to catch any errors, but that's just the way I work.</li>
<li>Make sure your reports are all written in the same tense.</li>
<li>Remember who you are writing for: Most of the time, it's parents, right? And most parents have never read these reports before, and I try to. keep that in mind. That said...</li>
<li>Use visuals! Charts and graphs are something I try to include as often as possible, as they help everyone understand where the student is compared to his or her peers.</li>
<li>Help parents interpret results: I use <a href="http://www.pacificcoastspeech.com/pdf/bellcurve_02_2014.pdf" target="_blank">this visual</a> for parents, and teachers, and others ALL THE TIME. I love it.</li>
<li>Make sure to update your "monster" template at the beginning at the end of every year, and each time you write up a new assessment.</li>
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What advice of you have to share?<br />
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<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-54517130370920198542017-06-01T03:39:00.001-07:002017-06-07T16:13:57.837-07:00Calming Tool: DIY Glitter JarWith the trend of fidget spinners sweeping across the nation, it's a great time to teach adults and kids about calming tools: what they are, and why we need them. Being able to calm down when we need it is so important for self regulation, and we can start this with even our little kiddos!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrvSCSm3k8KBucc1cMrdl16SQerVR_xiU_0iuvpqnLy0inPPyqqWcJReDTkATNq4ancWMAmjWYn77cHO0oVdXP8qpxnNgNZAbhIPinc0LbJt_sFXrKC6gDPwHb7qeOhUrVtCExpX4gbaK/s1600/Glitter+Jar+title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrvSCSm3k8KBucc1cMrdl16SQerVR_xiU_0iuvpqnLy0inPPyqqWcJReDTkATNq4ancWMAmjWYn77cHO0oVdXP8qpxnNgNZAbhIPinc0LbJt_sFXrKC6gDPwHb7qeOhUrVtCExpX4gbaK/s640/Glitter+Jar+title.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I've made a variety of calming tools through the years, and make these calming glitter jars at least a few times a year. I've stuck with a consistent formula for a while now, and kids love them. I use them as a tool to teach about mindfulness and calming out bodies.<br />
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So, gather your materials and an eager kids, and <b>let's create</b>!<br />
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<b>Materials:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qSlDRC31PanMOsTlAYlgdQuw_SRDW7HAU6oWQTUaCYeL6VpdkjIBw4rMS_MX_E07-0yQP4Ly_zNAKFq8MM9aP3kBk658Js_Q3R8gOFtXS67NsrpKuEiAAeOScSABStx5OrtEKg7-C7I2/s1600/glitter+materials.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1220" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qSlDRC31PanMOsTlAYlgdQuw_SRDW7HAU6oWQTUaCYeL6VpdkjIBw4rMS_MX_E07-0yQP4Ly_zNAKFq8MM9aP3kBk658Js_Q3R8gOFtXS67NsrpKuEiAAeOScSABStx5OrtEKg7-C7I2/s640/glitter+materials.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
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A small water bottle-the "mini" kids waters are perfect size. The shape isn't too important, but the round sports ones are my favorite.<br />
Glitter Glue<br />
Glitter<br />
Warm Water<br />
Room Temperature Water<br />
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<b>Instructions:</b><br />
1. Heat up warm water. I usually do this in the Keruig machine at work. You want it warm enough to melt the glitter glue a little bit. Keep it in a separate mug. You want enough to fill about 1/2 of each water bottle.<br />
2. Have kids pick out one color of glitter glue, and one color of glitter. I find this helps to reign in glitter explosions, but gives them choices and they get to customize their jar.<br />
3. One at a time, fill the water bottle half with warm water, and immediately squirt in about a tablespoon of glitter glue. Close the bottle top and mix it around, trying to get the glue to melt a little. It won't all the way, but it will do so over time.<br />
4. Then, open it back up, and pour in about a teaspoon of regular glitter. Fill the rest of the bottle with room temperature water.<br />
5. Let kids give them a test and shake things up! Again, I use this as a time to teach about how the glitter represents our own bodies and mind. I like to print them out this to bring home, so parents know what they are for as well :)<br />
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6. After testing, we do the most important step: seal the tops of the bottles with hot glue! (Or another strong glue of your choice)<br />
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These are a fun tool to make, and I see my kids using them often. How do you make glitter jars?</div>
<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-31374726765234555732017-05-30T17:44:00.003-07:002017-05-30T17:44:51.119-07:00Ways to get kids talking about their dayOne of the concerns from parents that I hear year after year is, "I never know what is going on in school! My child never tells me about their day!" As a parent, I can understand their concern-why aren't they talking? Do they hate school? Are things too hard? Are they not happy?<br />
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As a school psychologist, I've been there. There is nothing like a "so how's your day going?" at the beginning of my session to elicit a "horrible" or "I don't know" response, that can affect the rest of our session. So, I try to pass along this wisdom to those parents, and remind myself in these instances, that there are lots of ways to find out about your child and student's day, without really asking them. What are your favorites?<br />
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Here are mine:<br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">What's the best thing that happened today? The worst?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">What did you play at recess?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Tell me about something funny that happened today.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">If you could design the perfect school day, what would I look like?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">If you got to be the teacher/principal tomorrow, what would you change in class/school?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Tell me one book you read (or your teacher)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">How was lunch?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Tell me one thing that made you feel happy/sad/mad today.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Was anything at school really hard today?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">What do you hope to do in school tomorrow?</span></li>
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Other things I like to tell parents:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Model sharing about their day around the dinner table. Take turns talking about the best part of their day, something silly that happened, etc. Even if the child can' think of anything at first, hearing examples from others is a valuable tool.</li>
<li>The Rose and Thorn: One of my coworkers told me this analogy and it stuck. I always tell my kids we all have a million things that happen throughout the day, so we can always think of some small good and bad thing that happened. Sharing these and modeling is also a great conversation starter...This morning, I spilled my coffee, but I got to leave work on time and play with the babe for a little longer!</li>
<li>Relate it to what they know. Do I spend my free time playing Minecraft? No, but I know what a creeper is. Have I ever sat down to watch any of the Star Wars movies in full? No, but I do "Yoda" meditation with one of my students every week. Use what kids are passion about to get them talking, and let the conversation flow from there! Anytime a kid is talking, you are doing good.</li>
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What are your favorite ways to get conversation flowing?</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-54614224158806654452017-05-25T12:07:00.001-07:002017-05-25T12:07:29.807-07:00How I became a school psychologistI love chatting with people who are interested in becoming school psychologists, who are eager to know exactly how I became a school psychologist, so I thought I would share my experience here! I'd love to chat more with anyone thinking about becoming a school psych in the future.<br />
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<b>My Undergraduate Years: What to study?</b></div>
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I went into college with a completely different area of study: pre-law! I liked it, but ended up taking my first psychology course as a core course (an introductory course), and I just <i>loved</i> learning about it. I definitely believe, first and foremost, that you need to have a passion about psychology, education and children to do this work<br />
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During my time in college, I enjoyed almost every single psychology class I took. I was fortunate to be able to participate in number of activities in the field. My first was a developmental psychology course, where we volunteered for a number of weeks in a Head Start program. Later, there was a course on aging where we volunteered in a convalescent home. My first experience with a school psychologist was shadowing one for a day. It was an inner city school, and for the first time, had a taste that this <i>might just be</i> something I would like to do. </div>
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During my senior year in college, I thought that I was moving toward the clinical side of psychology. My first semester, I interned at a partical day hospitalization program at a mental health hospital near my school. It was challenging, to say the least, but I knew it was important work. As it ended, I learned that there was a therapeutic day school on campus, and spent my last semester there. The head of the program was a school psychologist, who was amazingly inspiring, and was so great with the students. I enjoyed the balance of her role in education and mental health. When it was time to graduate, my primary goal was to find a job, and I ended up working in the field of social worker, as a Therapeutic Foster Care case manager.<br />
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<b>The Real World Experience</b></div>
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You guys, if I could give one piece of advice to anyone thinking of graduate school, it would be to get a few years of real world experience under your belt before going back to school. Especially in a field where your job is to work with a challenging population, the more experiences you can bring in, the better. I worked for 3 years (in Boston and Connecticut) in Therapeutic Foster Care before I decided on any career, and it was the best thing for me. Working in the social work field gave me a glimpse into all kinds of careers I was considering: therapy, education, social work, and ultimately, I really felt like the work that the school staff was doing impacted the kids I had in a positive way. I did some research and found out that I could take up to 2 classes in a nearby school psychology program before matriculating, so I signed myself up!</div>
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<b>Back to School</b></div>
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I love learning and education, and as a budding school psychologist, you probably should do. After taking my first class in school psychology, during which we interviewed and shadowed various school psychs, I knew it was the career for me. I applied, and was accepted! The school psych program at my school was 3 years: 1 for your masters, and 2 for your 6th year, including a full time internship. I continued to work full time in social work for the first 2 years. It wasn't easy, but it was 100% worth it. Because the programs in school psychology are small, I really enjoyed the other women in my cohort, and we still talk today!</div>
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<b>Interning</b></div>
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An internship for a school psychologist is a big deal; it's a huge learning experience, and helps set the tone of who you will become as a school psychologist. When considering where to intern, I knew that there were a few chosen districts I had in mind, and I applied to intern in those. I really considered the district over the school psych I was matched with. In the end, my internship year was rough, as I don't think we matched personalities too well, but I learned SO MUCH, and it gave me great experience.</div>
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<b>The Job Hunt</b></div>
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My classmates and I all had different goals when we were searching for our first jobs. For some, they just wanted <i>a job</i>, so they applied to every school psychologist posting that came up in the state. I took another approach, and really wanted to work in only a few certain districts. There were probably about 8-10 towns I wanted to work in, and as a result, I waited and waited for positions in those to pop up. Of course, as many postings do, they did right before the school year, and I was offered a position in the district I interned in!</div>
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Now in my 5th year of working, in my second district, I feel like my time in graduate school was so long ago! To now be entering a position where I'm being as to take on an intern is crazy to me, but I can't wait to help someone else on this journey.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed hearing about my journey to becoming a school psychologist, and please, let me know any questions you might have!</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-43301213411007965582017-05-01T17:08:00.000-07:002017-05-01T17:08:01.624-07:00Enemy Pie is delicious!I use the book Enemy Pie several times throughout the school year, but about once a year, I use the worksheets provided on <a href="http://ayearofmanyfirsts.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-book-nook-enemy-pie.html?m=1" target="_blank">this blog</a> to turn the book into several weekly lessons. It's such a cute story and friendship problems are something all kids can related to in some capacity.<br />
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A few years ago, I made <i>actual</i> enemy pie with some of my social skills summer campers. Okay okay, it wasn't <i>actually </i>enemy pie from the book, it was primarily chocolate, but it was delicious!<br />
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I did it recently again with a girls group I have to celebrate the end of our friendship unit and it was so much fun!<br />
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We started off crushing up some delicious Oreos,<br />
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We put some "mud" (aka Chocolate pudding), in our cups...</div>
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And topped them with with "dirt" (the Oreos) and worms (gummy ones!!). I've also used rock candies in previous years.<br />
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Before we weren't allowed to really have "outside" snack parties in school, I would use this activity for my students to invite a friend to group for a fun activity. It's still great though, and I think I have as much fun as the kids do!Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-38220347236934705142017-02-08T07:00:00.000-08:002017-02-08T07:00:15.123-08:00Structuring counseling and social skills sessions...what works!<br />
I do a LOT more sessions with students individually and in small groups this year than I ever have. I often go for a few hours without a break in between to catch my breath. I thought I'd start a resource to share ideas for small groups in schools. To start out, I thought I'd start with the basics, scheduling and structuring groups. I have been following the same format for 4 years, and I have no plans to change it anytime soon!<div>
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I follow the same general outline for all of my students, and for all groups I have in my room. Most times, I write what I am about to share on the whiteboard in my room. It helps to keep me on track, and it's fun to cross of things as we get to them. Plus, it allows for the visual when I have to answer (and re-answer) the question, "Can we play a game now?"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHOLw0MK7L0soLc75RRs9yEU3a2yvt4jNy0MgK_SBnpTcIKv7jt-kPZdwWHgVd6dEWkS9hwK_PRxc3Zu8H1b6JKWYVtM3Ujd9BYzlkr7bvgfi9vO7lgXH6Zo9sezx9l2r6mR_aC05TQtF/s1600/Untitled-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHOLw0MK7L0soLc75RRs9yEU3a2yvt4jNy0MgK_SBnpTcIKv7jt-kPZdwWHgVd6dEWkS9hwK_PRxc3Zu8H1b6JKWYVtM3Ujd9BYzlkr7bvgfi9vO7lgXH6Zo9sezx9l2r6mR_aC05TQtF/s400/Untitled-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuiamufSsDRHw58ei0l5PnzhH7VvN4XqYjcCPWUOw0uaZdSQjUE6-eBvr0hU44HuhHLdQJhyphenhyphenp8vhFdpMI8g3A_YkxNCrTAMdYPSozMvpjJ_DXSSRrCqMEPKbn9XgOC31flAu6_iQXYOy6/s1600/Greeting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuiamufSsDRHw58ei0l5PnzhH7VvN4XqYjcCPWUOw0uaZdSQjUE6-eBvr0hU44HuhHLdQJhyphenhyphenp8vhFdpMI8g3A_YkxNCrTAMdYPSozMvpjJ_DXSSRrCqMEPKbn9XgOC31flAu6_iQXYOy6/s400/Greeting.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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The "greeting" looks different for all of my groups and students. For some (older, individual) students, it's just a simple "Hey, Emily! Come on in!" For others, it might be a reminder to "look in my eyes" and say "hello" when they walk in the door. And for a few, we sit around the table, and take turns looking each other in the eyes and saying "Hi John". Whatever it is, I like the greeting as a consistent way to welcome my students, and to teach social skills to those who need that support.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXNll1PI7rDwouKICe_mh0QX-OAMuYqCmKpsHwRJmufkN6QuR1bu7iBw7NMo0NyDJkOo81UUO2lxlSizWqg4l6-1NLKi6dl2oBFCx9fl8wWFxcGgJRJv4QqEgUHxe4u01MqJrli7Zfzqa/s1600/Share.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGXNll1PI7rDwouKICe_mh0QX-OAMuYqCmKpsHwRJmufkN6QuR1bu7iBw7NMo0NyDJkOo81UUO2lxlSizWqg4l6-1NLKi6dl2oBFCx9fl8wWFxcGgJRJv4QqEgUHxe4u01MqJrli7Zfzqa/s400/Share.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love a good share. I don't know why, but this is my favorite part of sessions. My new school just started using Responsive Classroom, and this aligns with it well. A share is typically a question I come up with, but other times, is a great spot for a random share if a child is itching to talk about something. My most common shares are:</div>
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<li>How was your weekend?</li>
<li>What are you doing this weekend?</li>
<li>What is the best part of your day today?</li>
<li>What did you play at recess?</li>
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But I will also do random, individualized as well. The share is important for social skills because it teaches students to be able to share in a concise way, to stay on a certain topic, and for others, to use their listening skills, and to learn more about others. To check for listening, I will often ask "What did Jack say was the best part of his weekend?" or another check-in question. I will also have students practice asking each other questions/making comments, such as "Wow, Chris said he went skiing in Vermont, do you have a question or a connection?"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-cOe6Hi1fF3zclgJgAzgnIxIV6wnzOuP8AK72aJBMwNHACuMTo9Gk7I7XfNTJ9brz06mDH5_xWPc8bJfLk-RJqzsLXt7hubftA2fyF9dtr5kkr8pXazgP6_WVwVxWpqzAbZJPX2egk6C/s1600/Lesson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-cOe6Hi1fF3zclgJgAzgnIxIV6wnzOuP8AK72aJBMwNHACuMTo9Gk7I7XfNTJ9brz06mDH5_xWPc8bJfLk-RJqzsLXt7hubftA2fyF9dtr5kkr8pXazgP6_WVwVxWpqzAbZJPX2egk6C/s400/Lesson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the main focus of our group, and guided my my students' goals and objectives. Are we reading a book on friendship skills? Playing a Focus game to help with attention? Maybe I'm teaching a group about Whole Body Listening. Whatever it is, this is the main teaching point</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtGkCi4GosV0qTj-siL5l-m3FTGUQ9QrgUJdMACUY12i__-u_W6Fj0pLo9oF24OB_W6-ORUq-Efs3eA3U0NazCiOuSmFemknM12vQNVvwsI5ak24euEei4L58WgVrQrJb_SNOfnmAUZz6/s1600/Untitled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTtGkCi4GosV0qTj-siL5l-m3FTGUQ9QrgUJdMACUY12i__-u_W6Fj0pLo9oF24OB_W6-ORUq-Efs3eA3U0NazCiOuSmFemknM12vQNVvwsI5ak24euEei4L58WgVrQrJb_SNOfnmAUZz6/s400/Untitled.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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(5-10 minutes)</div>
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One of the most difficult parts about teaching social skills and counseling skills in my office is the transfer of these skills to other places. So, I try to always make sure to work with my students on <i>why </i> what we are doing is important, and <i>how</i> we will use it in real life. If we are learning a mindfulness skill, we practice it several times, and think about specific times we can use it. If we're doing friend files, we recap and review what we have learned about our new friends. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYwIW93UTGWtnGjWNfaM2YyXYKNjwqAdaHMJjKP11Ere95K6rF5xc3PZNDZER435zSMbwx2jZVM7zbVS67Q6o2SijyoRKba963uXs0BcErYBCWZlMi1Rhi0wLFhGD1Hwnhj0D_pHk4CrY/s1600/Wrap+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYwIW93UTGWtnGjWNfaM2YyXYKNjwqAdaHMJjKP11Ere95K6rF5xc3PZNDZER435zSMbwx2jZVM7zbVS67Q6o2SijyoRKba963uXs0BcErYBCWZlMi1Rhi0wLFhGD1Hwnhj0D_pHk4CrY/s400/Wrap+up.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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However things have gone according to plan or the opposite, I try to make sure we wrap up with 2-3 minutes to go. We talk about what we will do next time, sometimes I allow some groups of students to play together to practice sharing or turn taking skills, and other times, students have earned a reward they cash in.</div>
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And that's a wrap! What do you do to make your sessions go smoothly?</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-40900464857461228352017-02-05T18:07:00.000-08:002017-06-07T16:11:57.329-07:00A day in the life of a school psychologistMy daily work life is different this year at my new school than it has been in the past. I counsel way more students, and find myself with less and less time to plan and prep, which is certainly an adjustment for me. I have a lot less administrative duties however, which is nice for my time and stress level! Here is how my day went on a recent Friday.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XytsXH_a8cv55XM5ieUAKnXS4IKZ32n176W0QBd5PxRCb31oDX1OFmzclOWJKxCUnN8Y8mU_ELzNlX3bLrzB1Hvb46y-C4eTCbH9auyFEgVmYQe7IIdUYh31NTza9_pErffGkuFNq1u5/s1600/Day+in+the+life+title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XytsXH_a8cv55XM5ieUAKnXS4IKZ32n176W0QBd5PxRCb31oDX1OFmzclOWJKxCUnN8Y8mU_ELzNlX3bLrzB1Hvb46y-C4eTCbH9auyFEgVmYQe7IIdUYh31NTza9_pErffGkuFNq1u5/s320/Day+in+the+life+title.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>8:15</b> I roll into school, large coffee in hand, still trying to fix my hair and look presentable as I walk in the door. Thus is the never ending life of a working parent. As I walk past the office, the school secretary gives me a phone message, another message from a pediatrician in town. We've been playing phone tag for a few days.</div>
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<b>8:30</b> As I drop my bags down, two teachers come in to talk and touch base on things. One teacher is reporting something a parent emailed her about last night, another is sharing what happened at a parent conference the night before. As I run to check my school mailbox, another teacher reviews an email she sent me last night about a student I need to observe. And my to-do list is already growing for the day!</div>
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<b>9:10</b> I head across the hall to a classroom to do a Mindfulness lesson during morning meeting. I do twice weekly lessons with this class, and I know them pretty well. Today's lesson goes well-except for the fact that during my lesson on a 1-5 scale, I forget to cover up the Minecraft chart I have on the back, which serves as a distraction to every. single. student. Oops.</div>
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<b>9:30</b> During my lesson, I saw a student pacing in front of my door, wanting to talk to me. I try to catch up with them, but see my next individual student coming down the hall. It will have to wait! After that student, I have another group of 2. Things go well. I recently restocked my prize box, which is a win for everyone.</div>
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<b>10:30</b> I check and return emails, phone calls, and make some plans for testing and observing next week.</div>
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<b>11:15</b> I head down to the lunchroom. One of my students from earlier was having some anxiety about getting hot lunch, and hasn't been eating. I am happy to see my suggestions along with the teachers' have worked, and he is eating pizza. Meanwhile, another student comes in upset. I hang out for a little bit to make sure things are going smooth.</div>
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<b>11:30</b> I quickly grab my lunch from the teacher's room fridge and almost get to start eating it.</div>
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<b>11:45</b> "Lunch bunch" with a student. I have 1-2 of these everyday, and really enjoy them! I get to eat my lunch with the student.</div>
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<b>12:30</b> After some behavior issues that I'm called to attend to, I'm now running late for my recess support. Oops.</div>
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<b>12:45</b> I attempt to run inside for a bathroom break before my next group. A parent stops me in the hall to talk about her son. Oh well, I tried.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6zhQ42ckhKq8CZ5ppAHZbcK1_XH7XtKEdVjRLmtdfacNdYnI3s1bqySER9X8ze9oDLGv4D_GG9fBYZ6_JZu44acFXzuAqFS-AJ8ACpe5-CVGZlT1cJS7jexhsD3Yd3WtMW5sgSOQ8jn8/s1600/IMG_1359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6zhQ42ckhKq8CZ5ppAHZbcK1_XH7XtKEdVjRLmtdfacNdYnI3s1bqySER9X8ze9oDLGv4D_GG9fBYZ6_JZu44acFXzuAqFS-AJ8ACpe5-CVGZlT1cJS7jexhsD3Yd3WtMW5sgSOQ8jn8/s320/IMG_1359.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<b>12:50</b> My next 2 students are waiting outside my office wondering where I am. "You're late! We just saw you!" It feels nice to be valued :)</div>
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<b>1:15</b> During my scheduled "lunch" time for the day, I decide to scrap any semblance of a break (aside from texting to check on my daughter), to move up a student I need to test. I use my "walking feet" as quickly as I can to get to the other side of the school and back.</div>
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<b>1:45</b> Last minute meeting with someone in the district about district planning</div>
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<b>2:00 </b> I head to a classroom to support a student with organizing in writing. I like these times in the classroom because I get to see so many students I don't normally. They are writing research papers and their topics are amazing!</div>
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<b>2:30</b> Head back to my office. Finally get to call the pediatrician I've been trying to talk to, input some new 504 plans and print and file those. Schedule some student meetings about students in the behavior intervention process.</div>
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<b>3:15</b> Students are heading down to buses when two of my students come in with a "friendship" problem they need me to help solve. I do a VERY quick talk before sending them on the bus home.</div>
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<b>3:30</b> Touch base with some teachers on students and meetings from the day. Attempt to make my office look less like a tornado has hit it. Happy Friday!</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-25995442591543913452017-01-10T18:29:00.000-08:002017-01-10T18:29:21.149-08:00I AM: Self-Esteem ActivityYou guys, I just love this activity. I s<a href="http://my.bravegirlsclub.com/courses/i-am-project-for-girls/" target="_blank">aw something similar to it on Pinterest</a> (of course!), and thought that it would be perfect for one of my students that is struggling with self esteem, and very artistic.<div>
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The thing with art therapy is that it calms you and relaxes you, right? I mean everyone I know is buying adult coloring books now!</div>
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So, the way I used this activity was that I presented the idea of self-esteem, and talked with my student about what that meant, and how we were going to talk about positive traits she had, and things she was good at. Upon an initial, cold question of this, she couldn't come up with anything. So, we got started painting. And the great thing about art therapy and crafts like this are that the words just start to flow.</div>
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As she started painting, we began talking more about positive things, and what it meant to have "talents". The whole project took about 3 weeks, between letting the paint dry, brainstorming the traits, designing the words, and then in the end, Mode Podging the whole thing.<br /><br />
In the end, it got the conversation going about positive traits, and allowed my student to be creative, but also be able to share things that she does well!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8V2F28GE1-Uoovs20sigge28r4zrLZYaDBXmRYj117rfBqUeuKPy7sra6Nw86Iift5Z-xAoPNnBZUm7M8w198FvnLF8KiyeIbHjXbNnR4SM-fcgk0t6mOT9XlZPuBRqbnw39pAUKjIya/s1600/IMG_0409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8V2F28GE1-Uoovs20sigge28r4zrLZYaDBXmRYj117rfBqUeuKPy7sra6Nw86Iift5Z-xAoPNnBZUm7M8w198FvnLF8KiyeIbHjXbNnR4SM-fcgk0t6mOT9XlZPuBRqbnw39pAUKjIya/s640/IMG_0409.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-31071765325490989482016-05-18T05:38:00.000-07:002016-05-18T05:38:00.016-07:00Case Managing 504 PlansOne of the first memories I have from my first days of a School Psych was searching for 504 plans. You see, my school didn't have an electronic list anywhere, and the former psych left no indication of a list of students with 504's. As case manager of 504 plans in my building, this posed a significant problem. So, I did what any dedicated newbie would: I searched the file drawers for the correct folders, and went from there.<br />
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Because of this, I was determined to be set up for my second year in the easiest way possible, so, part of my end of year routine involves prepping all my plans for the next year.<br />
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I created a cover sheet my first year that I have been using ever since. I usually copy it in a bright color so that it's easy for teachers to locate, and clip it to a copy of the plan. I've seen teachers pull it out at meetings, so I assume it's working pretty well. I also make a copy of every students accommodation pages for the specials teachers. At the beginning Of the year, I am good to go!<br />
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Here is the Cover Sheet I use: (download it from google docs <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZJMuEOjM34nsG62K6t7qzkr1ildsMtBliOSkFKfnZXU/pub" target="_blank">here</a>)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXSoRUUHRePk62BWfPL1QOfuNIi7dTmlVw4ztCHVhk040BFfqa9nEFyrPoN-Ix2i3ClSt9DUt2UQjNokpbJKVd3rJZAXOlH4E4hyjZ9LCojMu-NE9C1u2qlq_z7yNRJmB-zrLGW_XU7lF/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+7.20.08+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXSoRUUHRePk62BWfPL1QOfuNIi7dTmlVw4ztCHVhk040BFfqa9nEFyrPoN-Ix2i3ClSt9DUt2UQjNokpbJKVd3rJZAXOlH4E4hyjZ9LCojMu-NE9C1u2qlq_z7yNRJmB-zrLGW_XU7lF/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+7.20.08+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also send a letter out to all parents of my 504's at the beginning of the year, using <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Fo6jV1kS2itnUT3mdPnqlVTQyR87h1TRNngwXaQKwmo/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">this template:</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY4pgv9p2hbA-vQcgYPnBcs43Br-OszlQOjtifc_VIQQ5S3MJSQsphSxaCwi9hBddpVaLWmf_rUqlIB3wrZXAmD89pkcLqE4SIJxiexL7pstoFnTBJzQUiprMkUkGyjz8CRJnTysFzCxNa/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+7.22.10+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY4pgv9p2hbA-vQcgYPnBcs43Br-OszlQOjtifc_VIQQ5S3MJSQsphSxaCwi9hBddpVaLWmf_rUqlIB3wrZXAmD89pkcLqE4SIJxiexL7pstoFnTBJzQUiprMkUkGyjz8CRJnTysFzCxNa/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+7.22.10+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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And <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nPr-TR-PDzv2BUUdTBkB7YWdCRbgXyCrEYQpchBKq30/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a> is the letter I send to special area teachers, who get copies of multiple plans:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueskLXTCPVnzAUEP1gdMbtJVc4NQv-7bCNjgj0MCSMSwB1jzOaKB3WCMOAYBUAVqIDSc22-PEkXHzUMVPi5sPEsJMozsZeWsmhJ-P7GrWYEY95h6HLjEs-tGqjQotANnD0sKN2zn69Ra1/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+7.23.15+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueskLXTCPVnzAUEP1gdMbtJVc4NQv-7bCNjgj0MCSMSwB1jzOaKB3WCMOAYBUAVqIDSc22-PEkXHzUMVPi5sPEsJMozsZeWsmhJ-P7GrWYEY95h6HLjEs-tGqjQotANnD0sKN2zn69Ra1/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+7.23.15+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I do with all meetings, I schedule all meetings at the beginning of the year, and mark all dates off on my <a href="http://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2014/12/special-education-referrals-and.html" target="_blank">SPED organization chart</a>. I get the above going in June, so it's one less thing to do at the start of the year. What do you all use to help case manage?</div>
Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-51527464235605133042016-05-06T17:54:00.000-07:002017-06-07T16:12:17.307-07:00School Psychologist: Getting started with AssessmentsOh Spring. What a dichotomy for School Psychologists. The weather is warm, you can break out bright colors and iced coffee, but at the same time, you are scrambling, trying to beat the federal timeline on the most popular time of the year for special education referrals. While that will probably never change, I have developed a system over the years, for organizing and keeping track of my evaluations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Enmf07Y3Ue4U5bLrKecHwQlR70PcsQJR06gZif_LdvfTYTBPdvRaiedWpppJJn5FYzpEfw8S17CB7mOtJuxACn1qYuCAZM2Ga7P5AOcsf7xFs_ehF7DKRguikBxvy3lI6dVelQqXvp4-/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-01+at+2.24.45+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Enmf07Y3Ue4U5bLrKecHwQlR70PcsQJR06gZif_LdvfTYTBPdvRaiedWpppJJn5FYzpEfw8S17CB7mOtJuxACn1qYuCAZM2Ga7P5AOcsf7xFs_ehF7DKRguikBxvy3lI6dVelQqXvp4-/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-05-01+at+2.24.45+PM.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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I've finally developed a system that is pretty smooth, and allows me to balance multiple evals with once without going nuts. Here is my system:<br />
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1. Create a cover sheet for your folder you'll keep everything in. This is what I use, and it's been super efficient for me for the past 3 years. It has everything I need on it, including:<br />
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<li>Assessments I am doing</li>
<li>PPT dates, due dates</li>
<li>A way of tracking what assessments & observations I've done, and when I send them out/return them.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcxd5L_CxyX91vmaQ9kGnKPQUyIebh_loMNu4olKicPcOjB5Y6iVfucOqhugkgKyB-ca7SuWAom_YFncI5FkFgeomOHA5bHza-SDM-d7jbUttl6EEZbf-JmeC0E5EXrYV9B7Nr9sqq5YT/s1600/IMG_7839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcxd5L_CxyX91vmaQ9kGnKPQUyIebh_loMNu4olKicPcOjB5Y6iVfucOqhugkgKyB-ca7SuWAom_YFncI5FkFgeomOHA5bHza-SDM-d7jbUttl6EEZbf-JmeC0E5EXrYV9B7Nr9sqq5YT/s320/IMG_7839.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I staple that sheet to the front of your folder, write the student's name and due date on the tab, and staple a copy of the consent for testing form to the back inside, just in case there are any questions.</div>
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2. The same day I create this, I send out a copy of all forms I need other people to fill out (developmental history, rating scales, etc.), and write those down on my form. Another way I have made this really easy is having pre-written letters that I can quickly fill in. Then, I stick those in an envelope and send them home/put them in teachers mailboxes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5AaW6Nb3KEywP4uFqVr1xszJvrsXDsH99xDqOrRu8QyVCz6Wf8DsXiWpzqmK121EKlUHKKl0G_rsHigt9aOffpV9eqnMQ2TXzL3m7ujmHoXA_m5Ny4Q8C6-GMddOYG8URQKyvu7itfTHC/s1600/IMG_7842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5AaW6Nb3KEywP4uFqVr1xszJvrsXDsH99xDqOrRu8QyVCz6Wf8DsXiWpzqmK121EKlUHKKl0G_rsHigt9aOffpV9eqnMQ2TXzL3m7ujmHoXA_m5Ny4Q8C6-GMddOYG8URQKyvu7itfTHC/s320/IMG_7842.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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One more tip: Write "To:" and "From:" on the outside of your envelope. Chances are, the parents will just cross out those words and switch them, and the chances of your envelope going back to the classroom teacher or random other person, are slim.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhgu7fUx6XlmNRtu6ItoeDGilPiDAhZvrYWHqA70QnY4lSGyAiOhr3h8XjjNCilowPgVzwpOVKF6ph_4Y645l7fb8uBFr1sJQ7jDE8hdeYfnJCKmB7Dc0YwCbsiE-fMIR5b4IBLD-MOyL/s1600/IMG_7841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhgu7fUx6XlmNRtu6ItoeDGilPiDAhZvrYWHqA70QnY4lSGyAiOhr3h8XjjNCilowPgVzwpOVKF6ph_4Y645l7fb8uBFr1sJQ7jDE8hdeYfnJCKmB7Dc0YwCbsiE-fMIR5b4IBLD-MOyL/s320/IMG_7841.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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3. Also the same day, I get a copy of the protocols I need and put them in the students folder. This saves last minute scrambling of me using the last protocol!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVLY-GXKSwoffQVTsuACVcWqt3VqgReDrE033gVP-K2tOIi-Je28SL7rhXqXQkuOJbLTM-Iq8kEJyGXAB0Hov01Ihg_CSnRK7DasW0jOR2BOaDi33HITEhgCzX3x59OwxLkB4dLxA2nuW/s1600/IMG_7840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVLY-GXKSwoffQVTsuACVcWqt3VqgReDrE033gVP-K2tOIi-Je28SL7rhXqXQkuOJbLTM-Iq8kEJyGXAB0Hov01Ihg_CSnRK7DasW0jOR2BOaDi33HITEhgCzX3x59OwxLkB4dLxA2nuW/s320/IMG_7840.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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4. Once things come in, or I finish them, I write those dates down on the cover sheet.</div>
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5. If you don't already, as I mentioned in this post, you NEED a report template. It will make your life 6 million times easier. For mine, I try to go through and update things once a year to add any new assessments I have learned.<br />
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What's your secret to Spring eval season success?<br />
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Here are my go-to forms:<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Special-Education-Tests-Planning-form-1634916" target="_blank">Testing planning form on TpT </a>(Cover sheet)<br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Observation-Checklist-563392" target="_blank">Observation form on TpT</a><br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-Ng1qae0VVJutxeOnreAY1A4RrgNEeNJQXvhow6lZwA/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">A student interview</a> (I use this as an informal ice breaker for students)<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m8yNCy2pRJiGfFo8z5QsMFsM8Jv4kdhO3O1STMEt4pI/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">A template letter for parent rating scales</a><br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1352wUFNJ81106qcafjdxw3vhgirMOeAcT-sk9aa9gx4/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">A template letter for teacher rating scales</a><br />
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<br />Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-13659299463710194902016-02-05T07:58:00.002-08:002016-02-05T07:58:55.119-08:005 More Pinterest IdeasA while ago I shared <a href="http://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2015/08/pinterest-5-ideas-ive-used-and-loved.html" target="_blank">some pins I love</a>. As much as I love Pinterest, sometimes I get overwhelmed at the ideas, and, more often than not, I pin something and then forget about it. So here are 5 pins that I have actually used, and love!<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/2f/e7/72/2fe77255c54501cec878e7e55b821f0c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/2f/e7/72/2fe77255c54501cec878e7e55b821f0c.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love reading books in groups, but I also love then someone else reads them! <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/384846730638184123/" target="_blank">This website</a> has an animated version of Howard Wigglebottom books.</div>
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/1b/a5/6e/1ba56e9a085446888d8358e5d9ac9c5c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/1b/a5/6e/1ba56e9a085446888d8358e5d9ac9c5c.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I need to write a post on <a href="http://www.mericherry.com/2014/02/13/random-acts-of-kindness-a-little-goes-a-long-way/" target="_blank">these hearts</a> (which are a great activity for following directions!). They are perfect for Random Acts of Kindness or Valentines Day!<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/4a/af/1d/4aaf1dab7ffa05e7a012039bd32c07ca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/4a/af/1d/4aaf1dab7ffa05e7a012039bd32c07ca.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Let's face it-it's hard for kids to understand what we do. I get called a social worker more than a psychologist. I love this <a href="http://counselingcorner-allison.blogspot.de/2012/08/what-is-school-counselor.html" target="_blank">counselor's idea and post</a> about explaining her job to kiddos, and I use some of these when I go and talk to classrooms about my role.<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/70/a8/c3/70a8c3c56d823811df94983434a0b325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/70/a8/c3/70a8c3c56d823811df94983434a0b325.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
I love a good check-in. I pull <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/384846730638184186/" target="_blank">this one </a>out often as an alternative to my regular one because of the great t visuals.<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/0c/3c/da/0c3cda1de8ae9426b909e4ee34551b94.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/0c/3c/da/0c3cda1de8ae9426b909e4ee34551b94.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
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Let's face it: Legos make anything more fun. I have used <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/384846730638184154/" target="_blank">this</a> with a few different groups, and it's great for a variety of ages!<br />
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What are you pinning lately?Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-27061826095846558142016-02-01T04:00:00.000-08:002016-02-01T04:00:22.227-08:00Random Acts of Kindness 2016Last year, my favorite school wide activity was <a href="http://besillyhonestkind.blogspot.com/2015/02/rak-week.html">RAK week</a>-except we did it for a month, because collecting hundreds of hearts was a little more than a week's worth of work. Essentially , we asked all students and staff to complete any acts of kindness that they could think of (we also gave suggestions), and write them down on red hearts we distributed. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhiDDbLTKFQ3MedddFWCCGnK5dh1kPxutKFiYMqye1k1K8_gwnNXGNRgEe6e_0ACVX7LB-Y6bXH4gonGGtAGAaZJq03j1d5sALDOtuxA41dQEqGL32fGmTL6noR-RIT8wUABfudt2jTir/s1600/IMG_4780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrhiDDbLTKFQ3MedddFWCCGnK5dh1kPxutKFiYMqye1k1K8_gwnNXGNRgEe6e_0ACVX7LB-Y6bXH4gonGGtAGAaZJq03j1d5sALDOtuxA41dQEqGL32fGmTL6noR-RIT8wUABfudt2jTir/s320/IMG_4780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is such an easy project for a class or school, and I just updated mine for this year. Use my FREE template <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Random-Acts-of-Kindness-RAK-week-heart-2342715" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Random-Acts-of-Kindness-RAK-week-heart-2342715" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_IBz4aRYBUYai2D7FtdPRZ1y7T7fFix6MUL7BidvN1JO9gl1ITNn0z1AgZhdrAhP1baWxZL-Yj_O5_6qMWZ2Gum3CYarRdATUkDJTRqPhDfpW9c6pdinFBjr0C0SBL9Vr8MS9kW5InO_X/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-01-23+at+11.31.14+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9118523332564397272.post-49221381188900475032016-01-28T03:30:00.000-08:002016-01-28T04:01:05.889-08:00Think SheetsOne of the reasons we started up a large school climate program at our school was to share some tools that teachers could use with their students' behavior. Think sheets, in my opinion, are a fabulous tool to use <b>when used appropriately</b>. Although kids don't love filling them out and bringing them home for their parents to review and sign (a necessity), they really are a good tool for turning problematic student behavior into a lesson: <br />
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What is a better choice to make next time?</div>
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That's really what we want them to learn, right? That when a similar incident happens next time, they make a different choice, a better choice.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2SxEw9ZfHXoik7SdgGhw7_DJbfcMV42SFxoC8YvKq1bUu5HxZ4ltzDMrAJnGcIlr2O-6IYQS5ERc7avj2d4KE5Y4eST9piNMcP4hjTONMsFb0sTzhDxb-kS-UBDFOo_CSwY4QqzXJ79m/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-27+at+8.29.15+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="473" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2SxEw9ZfHXoik7SdgGhw7_DJbfcMV42SFxoC8YvKq1bUu5HxZ4ltzDMrAJnGcIlr2O-6IYQS5ERc7avj2d4KE5Y4eST9piNMcP4hjTONMsFb0sTzhDxb-kS-UBDFOo_CSwY4QqzXJ79m/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-01-27+at+8.29.15+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I designed my first think sheet 2 years ago in a pinch when I need something to use for a Kindergartener. They couldn't write sentences, and I didn't want to have them dictate. So, I figured drawing out the incident (and a better choice) next time would be a good idea. I've added and changed it along the way, but this version is the most popular with teachers at my school, even in the older grades.</div>
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You can download this one page Think Sheet <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7A6jnZi2gSoNDQyaHZUSGdxUmc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">HERE </a> from google drive for FREE, or this and another 2 versions on my <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-Sheets-Pack-of-3-2353075" target="_blank">TPT store for a bargain</a>. Let me know how these work out for you and your students!</div>
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Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17479643204905038206noreply@blogger.com0