Introduction:

Trevor is 3 years old and has been diagnosed with autism; he struggles with both receptive and expressive language skills, and has trouble transitioning away from highly preferred activities, which include rolling trucks across the carpet, using the iPad and rolling clay or playdough (which must be closely supervised because he likes to taste it).

Your playground time recently was changed by your administrator. This means that you have 30 minutes of center time, go outside for 60 minutes and then transition inside for a story time followed by 30 more minutes of center time. Trevor is melting down and crying during each of these transitions; at times, it has been necessary to carry him because he will not come on his own.

You really think that the change in the schedule is causing this and have arranged a meeting with your administrator to talk about why you need to rearrange your classroom schedule.

Prompt:

Prepare for the conversation for the administrator by preparing the following:

1. Write down the morning schedule you are proposing. Be sure to include circle/story time, center time and outside time.

2. Write 2-3 reasons why you believe this is the best schedule for Trevor and the rest of your students. (make specific references to the course readings and research. Do not just write what you think, or an opinion.)

3. Write one activity that you will try with Trevor if he continues to have difficulty transitioning. (the resources include a handout titled 'Teaching Strategies for Transitions' which will provide ideas you can use)

Use this handout to help you with this assignment: Mod6AllHandouts.pdf (unc.edu)

Grading:

Initial posts should be between 250-300 words. Replies (x2) should be between 100-150 words each.