The Inclusive Class

I first wrote this post in 2013. Since then, I have come across many more wonderful blogs about inclusion that are a great resource for teachers and families! So, I'm adding another 10 fantastic blogs to this list!! With school starting in just a few short weeks, teachers and parents are thinking about the new beginnings that each school year brings. We reflect on our student’s growth over the past year and look forward to what the future holds. For me, the new school year also means finding new resources for the classroom that I can use to spur on creativity, enthusiasm and learning throughout the coming months. I can easily spend hours in bookstores and online searching for information that will help guide my inclusive practice. Over the past couple of years, there have been many internet sites created to support inclusive education. While I am not going to be in a classroom this year, I have used my time instead, to search for resources for you . In particular, I have ...

I was thinking the other day about all the ways to include others. We can use modified material, assistive technology, paraprofessionals, and adaptive devices.  Teachers can use Individual Education Plans for guidance, and strategies for instruction. While all useful, and helpful and needed....there is a much simpler way of including.   How about we begin  with a simple invite? An invitation, when you think about it, is a powerful gesture. It can make someone feel welcome or excluded. It gives the choice to say "yes" or "no", because remember, not everyone wants to be included all the time. An invitation provides opportunity for new experiences. It can facilitate new friendships.  An invitation can open doors we never knew existed.