homework plans a tool for promoting independence

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Homework plans: a tool for promoting independence.

Patricia K. Hampshire , Boise State University Follow Gretchen D. Butera , Indiana University Jack Hourcade , Boise State University Follow

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Publication date.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0040059914534615

With long brown braids and a huge smile, Kelly is a 12-year-old sixth grader attending an intermediate school in a large suburban community. Kelly is currently receiving special education services to address academic and behavioral learning needs. When given extended time and reminded (sometimes repeatedly) to think about what she has to do, Kelly usually completes at least part of her school and homework assignments.

At school, Kelly spends the majority of her day in the general education classroom. Debbie, her general education teacher, works hard to include Kelly in daily classroom activities. Kelly's special education teacher, Tina, works with Kelly for 1 hour each day. In addition to her individualized education program (IEP), Kelly has a behavior intervention plan that focuses on reducing task-avoidant behavior (described as verbal protestations, laying her head down on the table, and/or trying to run away from the work environment).

Homework has been a long-standing challenge for Kelly. Her mother, JoAnna, reports "major battles" during homework time, resulting in tantrums and incomplete assignments. Tina and JoAnna have recently been discussing Kelly's transition to junior high next year. Both are concerned about the increased amount of homework that she will be expected to complete then.

Publication Information

Hampshire, Patricia K.; Butera, Gretchen D.; and Hourcade, Jack. (2014). "Homework Plans: A Tool for Promoting Independence". TEACHING Exceptional Children, 46 (6), 158-168.

Since August 15, 2014

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5 Tools To Build Independence In The Classroom

Building Independence

Building independence in the classroom is one of the most important jobs we have as teachers. When teaching independence with academic tasks, there are several go-to items I use from The Autism Helper. Here are 5 tools I use to build independence in the classroom.

Leveled Daily Curriculum

First, I can’t tell you about all of the items I use without mentioning Leveled Daily Curriculums . I can’t stop sharing these awesome resources. As specialists, we are often creating everything necessary to meet our student’s unique needs. Leveled Daily Curriculums take all of that off my plate so I can focus on teaching. They are worth every penny. So many of the items I use for independent work are extra components of leveled daily curriculums, like math task boxes or file folders that correlate to the curriculum we are using. These curriculums are such a huge help to our classroom!

File Folders

Call me old school, but I still love a good file folder activity! Nothing beats hands on, and these are the best! I absolutely love these from The Autism Helper. When teaching independence, each student has their own leveled file folders, customized to their IEP goals or where they are performing independently with leveled daily curriculum. It’s important to pick tasks that have already been mastered, so students can do them without assistance. Visuals are a huge help, too! We have a basket for each student to complete, and a place to turn them in when they are finished. Due to COVID, we don’t share materials. This means I’ve had to prep several duplicates, but I’m sure I’ll continue using them through the years. 

Task cards are also a favorite of mine. I love how versatile they can be. Some of my all time favorites are the ABLLS task cards. Let me tell you, they took me an entire summer to prep, it’s such a huge resource. I’m absolutely in love with how I can have student maintain skills through these cards. Having students continue using them once the skill is mastered can be a way to teach independence, too. In my classroom each student has their own task box filled with task cards individualized just for them. These cards are done independently, then staff reviews the tasks with the student after completion for feedback. 

Adapted Books

Using adapted book s is another tool to use! Find a book that focuses on a previously mastered skill had have your students read and complete the book. I love that so many of these books are digital as well. This helps me meet the needs of my remote and in-person learners without sharing materials. I’m currently using the Christmas set in my classroom with my in person kiddos, while my remote learners are doing the same books, just the digital version with me on our Zoom calls. I’ve even had my remote and in person learners do these at the same time to help facilitate social language while completing them!

Leveled Daily Homework

There is nothing better than a print and go resource. Leveled Daily Homework is just that, and the best part is that it helps extend independence at home. I absolutely love coaching parents and helping them set their children up for success. If you want to know more about my homework mantra, check out my blog post on the topic. I think building independence at home is so important! I love helping parents see the success their child experiences at school in the home environment. 

Interactive Work

These Interactive Work books are what showed me how teaching independence would change my classroom. In fact, one year, it Saved My Classroom. No joke. Especially with a year full of COVID restrictions, we all see how important independence is to help keep a safe distance. These interactive books are a great starting point. 

No matter how you approach independent work, you need to keep going and working towards independence with tasks. It’s our job as a teacher to work our way out of a job. I want nothing more for my students than to teach them to no longer need my support, to be able to advocate for themselves, and function in a general education classroom without me. Some students may not be ready for big tasks like the one listed, and that’s okay ( see this blog post for more ideas) ! But keep pushing towards the goal, meeting kids where they are at. Even if it takes years to get there, the end goal of independence is worth every minute of effort put in. 

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Small Group Instrucition

Small Group Instruction is essential for providing individualized instruction within a classroom of learners with diverse needs. In this session, learn the evidence based strategies on how to provide small group instruction in an effective, efficient, and functional way. This session provides an overview on considerations for grouping students, how to schedule groups, and what back end organization is vital to keep groups running smoothly. Then, attendees will learn the specific steps to utilize while running groups. These antecedent based interventions will help prevent problem behavior during the work session, allow for consistent data collection, and maximize learning opportunities.

Seven Steps for Setting Up Stellar Autism Room

The optimal setup of the classroom environment is essential to increase engagement and cooperation as well as decrease negative behaviors. In this session learn how to organize, setup, and structure your classroom effectively. Start out with purposeful planning to lead to a structured and routine based environment. Attendees will learn how to create staff and student schedules, setup and utilize behavior and academic visuals, create data systems, setup independent work, and begin curriculum planning. Staff training is integrated into each section in order to get the whole team on board!

Sensory Processing by Katie McKenna, MS, OTR/L

Sensory processing impacts everyone and is an essential foundation for learning. In this session, participants will learn about the eight sensory systems and why they are important. Participants will learn how to identify different ways individuals may respond to sensory input and how that impacts behavior and participation in daily activities. Finally, specific sensory strategies and tools that can be used to support students of all ages and sensory profiles will be explored.

Schedules and Task Organization

For your classroom to run smoothly, the use of schedules and visuals are a must. However the setup can be overwhelming and maintaining these systems can be very time consuming. Learn the most efficient and time saving ways to use visual schedules and how to incorporate visuals throughout your classroom so they are there when you need them! These interventions will help prevent behavior problems, ease student anxiety, and allow maximum communication opportunities!

In this session we will also focus on creating materials and resources that are appropriate for your students to meet their IEP goals. We will discuss implementing appropriate and useful independent work systems that give students the opportunity to generalize and maintain previously learned skills.

Roadmap to Reading

The Roadmap to Reading gives an overview of how to provide effective and individualized reading instruction to struggling or reluctant readers. This workshops covers assessment, planning and setup, implementation, data, and staff training. The Roadmap to Reading is based on the Science of Reading’s foundational 5 components of reading. These components are taught through the 3-Part Framework of Direct Instruction, Fluency Instruction, and Guided Reading Groups. This workshop reviews how to schedule, setup, and run each center. We go in-depth into best practices and evidence based strategies for this multi-tiered approach.

Reinforcement, Bribery, and Negotiation

A key component to all behavior management strategies is the effective use of reinforcement. In this session, participants will learn how to correctly utilize reinforcement. We breakdown how making simple changes to the way you are approaching challenging behaviors can make a huge impact in teaching positive, prosocial, communicative behaviors. Participants will walk away with a clear understanding of the difference between reinforcement and bribery as well as the knowledge of how to ensure their behavior plans are set up correctly.

Preschool Vocabulary

In this full day workshop, we will explore methods to increase vocabulary, literacy skills, independence, and communication skills in your preschool students! The day begins with an in-depth look at the importance of building vocabulary for all preschoolers. Increased vocabulary will lead to more advanced reading skills in early elementary and overall school achievement. In this session, we will review the importance of building vocabulary and ways to identify vocabulary deficits. We will explore a range specific strategies for increasing word knowledge and use at a variety of levels for delayed learners. We will explore how to increase language through the use of Higher Order Thinking Questions, play based learning, and classroom based read aloud.

Next we will examine how appropriate and purposeful use of visuals helps build executive functioning skills with our younger learners. Many students with special needs struggle with receptive language. This delay in language development can cause issues with many executive functioning skills. In this session, learn how to utilize visuals to improve organization, planning, following directions, problem solving, and cognitive flexibility with preschool students. We will explore specific strategies and examples of how to create visuals, teach appropriate use, and utilize on a daily basis.

Practical Behavior Approach

The Practical Behavior Approach is a comprehensive workshop designed to help attendees successfully reduce problem behaviors and improve cooperation, independence, and engagement of children of all ages. Learn how to prevent problem behaviors and respond effectively when negative behaviors occur while building essential positive skills. Discover how a child’s diagnosis, history of trauma, and sensory needs impact behavior and the strategies we use. The strategies in this session can apply to students of all ages with and without a disability.

Positive Behavior Change

This workshop will breaks down the Functional Behavior Plan process and teaches how to create a function based behavior intervention plan. Attendees will learn solutions to foster increases in positive, communicative behaviors and decreases in problem behaviors. This session will begin by exploring how to apply these strategies to everyday situations in an applicable and proactive way. This approach will focus on the changing outcomes of behaviors by looking at the entire context and approaching behavior change from a function based perspective. The key is not only teaching communication, but teaching the right type of communication in order to produce long lasting behavior change. However, we all know – there are those times when things do not go as planned. Learn how to tackle those high-stress situations where no option seems like the right one and all bets are off. This workshop highlights ready to use interventions and real-life scenarios. The concepts can be applied to a wide range of environments

Movement and Learning by Katie McKenna, MS, OTR/L

In this session, participants will learn about the connection between movement and the brain, as well as the impact of movement on academic and functional performance. Participants will learn how to incorporate movement activities and tools into the school day, such as flexible seating, brain breaks, yoga and so much more. Finally, participants will learn how to adapt and modify movement activities to facilitate independence for all students.

Literacy Mindset

In this session, learn the 3 keys to teaching reading to struggling learners and students with special needs. Embracing the big picture goal, organization, and a comprehensive approach are essential to efficiently and effectively building reading skills for a range of struggling learners. Participants will walk away with actionable strategies for planning and creating opportunities for literacy instruction.

Let’s Play

In this full day workshop, we will explore methods to increase communication, social skills, literacy, and independence through play based instruction. This session is geared for early childhood educators and clinicians. In this workshop, we break down the critical elements of play and why play is essential for building foundational skills. This session is focused on action strategies. Learn how to utilize easy to use informal assessments, identify goals, plan play based instruction, facilitate learning during play, and take efficient data. Attendees will walk away with a toolbox of resources, ideas, and activities for increasing a wide range of skills.

Interoception by Katie McKenna, MS, OTR/L

Interoception is the eighth sensory system, which involves internal sensations such as hunger, thirst, need for the bathroom, body temperature, heart rate and muscle tension. In this session, participants will explore interoception more in depth. Learn how interoception impacts emotions, self regulation, and social interaction skills. Finally, participants will identify specific activities and strategies to build interoceptive awareness in all students.

Functional Literacy

Literacy is a key component to being a functionally independent adult. We live in a text rich world and our students need to know how to navigate through it successfully. As a teacher it’s often a struggle to balance academic and functional instruction. In this session, learn how to make your literacy curriculum real world applicable and engaging for your students!

This session will examine literacy instruction for all types of students. We will examine instructional planning, activity ideas, and specific interventions. Many struggling learners benefit from structured tasks, the use of visuals, multiple exemplars, discrimination training, and routine based instruction. Learn how you can incorporate these strategies into your functional literacy instruction.

Fluency is accuracy plus speed and is a must-have when it comes to making the skills we teach functional in the real world. Learn how to implement fluency instruction in your classroom with this interactive workshop. This presentation covers instructional strategies for a wide range of learners including both functional and academic skills. Attendees will walk away with actionable ideas to implement fluency instruction in their classroom!

Executive Functions

This workshop teaches the importance of building executive functioning skills and how to build those skills within a wide range of learners. Attendees will learn the entire process from assessment and goal identification to instructional strategies and data collection. Walk away with a toolbox of strategies to teach essential skills such as flexibility, emotional control, sustained attention, and so much more!

Executive Functions are the skills needed to accomplish goal directed behavior and are critical for every day success. The skills of planning, organization, shifting and sustaining attention, impulse control, and more are key to everything from making friends to having a job to completing a math test. In this session, learn how to identify the skill deficits that your students are struggling with under the area of executive functioning skills. Learn how to approach teaching and developing these skills with the same rigor and systematic planning that we give to other areas of need. Identify ways to setup an environment that promotes independence and problem solving. Finally, learn how to track progress and fade assistance.

Data Driven Classroom

This workshop breaks down the data collection process for special education classrooms. Attendees will learn how to streamline the data collection process and collect data that will truly informs instruction. Learn how to analyze and use data to drive your instruction, IEP goals, and behavior plans.

The key to successful data collection is to make it easy and doable! We will discuss ways to take data that are efficient, time saving, and useful for both academic and behavior data. In this session, we will review using rubrics, rate of responding, frequency count, and tracking prompt levels to take data on both functional and academies skills. Next learn how to take frequency, duration, and rubric data for problem behaviors to develop your behavior plans. Organization is the major component to a successful data system. Learn how to create specific and individualized data sheets in a fast and simple way and explore a range methods of organizing your data so you can access it readily. Staff training is also essential. Learn how to work with your staff so data is taken consistently across all areas of your classroom!

Classroom Schedules

Schedules are one of the most essential components to any effective classroom! Schedules let us know when transitions will occur, the order of activities, and alerts us to changes. Children with autism, receptive language challenges, anxiety, and a history of trauma, schedules are even more important. Effective use of schedules can increase functional independence and decrease negative behaviors. However, there are some common pitfalls we fall into when it comes to appropriate schedule use. Learn my 10 dos and don’ts for classroom schedules and make the most out of this must-have strategy!

Classroom Environment As a Tool

The way the learning environment is set up is one of the most valuable tools you have. This can drastically impact the success of academic instruction and lead to decreases in negative behavior and anxiety as well as increases in student independence. In this session, learn how to take a proactive approach and build your toolbox of strategies. These antecedent interventions will help you create an optimal learning environment based on student needs. We will also explore how to support teams in utilizing these strategies with efficacy.

Can’t Do or Won’t Do

The goal for ALL students is to be learning, engaged, and independent. When are students are struggling to achieve this goal, we need to get to the root of the problem. Begin this process by identifying each learning and behavioral challenge as a Can’t Do or Won’t Do. Is the work or work process beyond your child’s skill level or is the motivation to complete the task not there? Explore learning obstacles by improving executive functioning skills. Learn how to identify executive functioning strengths and weaknesses. Match student strengths with activities they can excel at while simultaneously directly teaching skill deficits. For students who demonstrate the skills need but struggle with the motivation, add a proactive element to your behavior management system by implementing positive reinforcement to increase positive behaviors within your class. Learn best practices related to reinforcement and why it may not be working right now in your classroom. This session is jam packed with ready to use strategies for general education and special education classrooms.

CA and Classroom Setup

Learn how to structure an effective classroom and utilize The Autism Helper Curriculum Access in this dynamic and jam-packed session! For Curriculum Access users, this workshop will walk teachers through how to set up and use the curriculum. We will cover placement assessments and determining levels, lesson planning, running instructional lessons, making data-based decisions, and troubleshooting challenging areas. This framework works best when incorporated into a highly structured and routine-based classroom that uses small-group instruction. Teachers will learn how to effectively set up this structure to prevent problem behaviors and allow for maximum instructional time. We will discuss independent work, staff training, and schedules as well!

Behavior Contingency Maps

Adapting academics.

Working in the special education field, we are often tasked with the daunting job of creating a curriculum for our students. We don’t have a roadmap to follow. Nobody hands you the perfect text book for each of your students. Many individuals with autism or special needs have skills that are scattered, varied, and difficult to assess. As educators and parents, we have to the heavy lifting to determine what our students know and what they need to learn next.

In this session, learn how to create a functional and appropriate curriculum guide for a wide range of types of learners. We will discuss how to incorporate assessments, state standards, and functional needs to develop appropraite goals. Then we will explore ways to teach and build both academic and functional skills. This presentation will guide you through the planning stages, IEP goal writing, and finish with the creation of materials.

Learn how to target a wide range of literacy goals for early childhood students using interactive and hands-on adapted books. An adapted book is any book that has been modified in some way that makes it more accessible. Adding moveable pieces, simplified text, and visually based comprehension activities to your existing favorite books can help increase student engagement. In this session, we will explore ways to create your own adapted books that build both foundational language skills and more advanced literacy concepts. Adapted Books can be used to build basic literacy and language skills such as matching, sequencing, sorting, following directions, categorizing, using prepositions, and more. Take it the next level by building advanced skills such as making inferences, using context clues, and identifying emotions. Learn how to utilize these books in small group instruction efficiently and effectively!

3 Reasons Staff Training Can Make or Break the Success of Your Classroom

In the role of a special education teacher you are also placed with the responsibility of being a manager to your team. That responsibility can be challenging and overwhelming. Often teachers have very little training on this. In this session, learn why staff training is so essential to the success of your classroom. We explore how this gives your students more instructional time, behavior plans are implemented more consistently, and more reliable prompt fading leads to more student independence. Participants will learn actionable strategies to create time for staff training and then utilize that time efficiently to build a team approach.

3 Biggest Mistakes in Behavior Plans & How to Fix Them

Positive behavior change involves focusing on the WHY behind a behavior and teaching the missing skills. The results of real behavior change are long-lasting, generalize to new settings, and socially significant for the individual. However, when moving towards this goal there can be significant challenges. Several common missteps in creating behavior plans can lead us astray from our goal of positive behavior change. In this session, learn the three most common mistakes that impact the success of a behavior plan. These mistakes include inconsistency with strategies, not including a replacement behavior, and lack of consistency with staff. Then explore strategies to combat these missteps and ensure that your behavior plan is on track for success.

10 Tips for Collaboration

In the world of consulting, developing an effective and conceptually systematic behavior plan is only half the battle. Having staff or parents accurately and consistently implement the plan will determine program success. Time, resources, and staff participation are big obstacles facing effective consultations. In this session, learn 10 actionable strategies for developing collaborative consultative relationships that lead to better follow through on behavioral programs. These strategies are not only real world based but also aligned to the BACB’s ethical guidelines. Each tip is supported by a specific guideline.

In this session, learn how to identify the skill deficits that your students are struggling with under the area of executive functioning skills. Embrace the power of ‘yet’ – these are skills they don’t have, yet. Learn how to approach teaching and developing these skills with the same rigor and systematic planning that we give to other areas of need. Identify ways to setup an environment that promotes independence and problem solving. Finally, learn how to track progress and fade assistance.

Schedules are an essential component to any effective classroom. Schedules let us know when transitions will occur, the order of activities, and alerts us to changes. For children with autism who may struggle with receptive language processing, schedules are even more important. Effective use of schedules can increase functional independence and decrease negative behaviors and anxiety. However, there are some common pitfalls we fall into when it comes to appropriate schedule use. Learn my 10 dos and don’ts for classroom schedules and make the most out of this must-have strategy!

The key to successful data collection is to make it easy and doable! No matter how great your data system is – if it’s too complicated you won’t use it. In this session, learn how to make your data system work for you. We will discuss ways to take data that are efficient, time saving, and useful for both academic and behavior data.In this session, we will review using rubrics, rate of responding, frequency count, and tracking prompt levels to take data on both basic and more complex skills.  Learn how to create specific and individualized data sheets in a fast and simple way. Once you have all this data, you need to know what to do with. Making data based decisions is critical in determining if progress has been made. Learn how to use your academic data to drive your instructional decisions and plan supplemental activities, write additional goals, or strengthen foundational skills. Utilize behavioral data to create function based interventions, determine the success of behavior plans, and increase functional skills. Organization is the major component to a successful data system. We will discuss methods of organizing your data so you can access it readily. Staff training is also essential. Learn how to work with your staff so data is taken consistently across all areas of your classroom! Offered as a one or two day session.

This full day workshop will offer practical solutions to foster increases in positive behaviors and decreases in problem behaviors. This session will begin by exploring how to apply these strategies to everyday situations in an applicable and proactive way. This approach will focus on the changing outcomes of behaviors by looking at the entire context and approaching behavior from a function based perspective. Audience members will learn how conduct a thorough Functional Behavior Assessment, select appropriate and function-based strategies, and analyze data to determine growth and next steps. This workshop highlights ready to use interventions and real-life scenarios. The concepts can be applied to a wide range of environments

The goal for all general education and special education students is to be learning, engaged, and independent. Begin this process by identifying each learning and behavioral challenge as a Can’t Do or Won’t Do. Is the work or work process beyond your child’s skill level or is the motivation to complete the task not there? Explore learning obstacles by improving executive functioning skills and adapting academic work. Add a proactive element to your behavior management system by implementing positive reinforcement to increase positive behaviors within your class. This session is jam packed with ready to use strategies for general education and special education classrooms.

Learn how to target a wide range of literacy goals for early childhood students using interactive and hands-on adapted books. An adapted book is any book that has been modified in some way that makes it more accessible. Adding moveable pieces, simplified text, and visually based comprehension activities to your existing favorite books can help increase student engagement. In this session, we will explore ways to create your own adapted books that build both foundational language skills and more advanced literacy concepts.

In this full day workshop, we will explore methods to increase vocabulary, literacy skills, independence, and communication skills in your preschool students! The day begins with an in-depth look at the importance of building vocabulary for all preschoolers. Increased vocabulary will lead to more advanced reading skills in early elementary and overall school achievement. This session will explore using higher order thinking questions, play based learning, a focused read aloud, discrete trial training, and fluency instruction to build vocabulary with your preschoolers. We will also examine how appropriate and purposeful use of visuals helps build executive functioning skills with our younger learners. Learn how to utilize visuals to improve organization, planning, following directions, problem solving, and cognitive flexibility with preschool students. We will explore specific strategies and examples of how to create visuals, teach appropriate use, and utilize on a daily basis.

This session will examine literacy instruction for all types of students. We will review instructional planning, activity ideas, and specific interventions. Students with autism benefit from structured tasks, the use of visuals, multiple exemplars, discrimination training, and routine based instruction. Learn how you can incorporate these strategies into your functional literacy instruction.

Learn how to use your academic data to drive your instructional decisions. Explore a variety of ways to effectively and efficiently take data that is useful. In this session, we will review using rubrics, rate of responding, frequency count, and tracking prompt levels to take data on both basic and more complex academic skills. After collecting the data, then you need to use it! Learn how to utilize your data to plan supplemental activities, write additional goals, or strengthen foundational skills.

We live in a rule-driven world yet so often our children and adults lack the understanding of these guidelines. Behavior Contingency Maps show a visual representation of everyday rules. These maps illustrate the consequences that result from both appropriate and inappropriate behaviors. These maps are an ABA based intervention and help identify the ABC pattern of behavior (antecedent, behavior, consequence) and will give your student or child a concrete way of understanding that “if, then” relationship – “If you do this, this will happen.” In this session, audience members will explore the purpose & use of Behavior Contingency Maps as well as  leave ready to implement this strategy immediately in an effective and positive way!

We live in a rule-driven world yet so often our children and adults lack the understanding of these guidelines. Behavior Contingency Maps show a visual representation of everyday rules. These maps illustrate the consequences that result from both appropriate and inappropriate behaviors. These maps are an ABA based intervention and help identify the ABC pattern of behavior (antecedent, behavior, consequence) and will give your student or child a concrete way of understanding that “if, then” relationship – “If you do this, this will happen.”  In this session, audience members will explore the purpose & use of Behavior Contingency Maps as well as  leave ready to implement this strategy immediately in an effective and positive way!

Working with the adult population can be very challenging. It can be tricky to navigate the often under-funded world of adult education in a way that is helpful and age appropriate for our adults. It’s a daunting task to create an environment that is meaningful and engaging. Individuals with autism are all so different and have a vast array of needs. In this session learn how to organize, setup, and structure your adult day program classroom. We will discuss everything from creating an efficient schedule, the physical structure, using visuals, creating a data system, and beginning curricular planning.

The key to successful data collection is to make it easy and doable! No matter how great your data system is – if it’s too complicated you won’t use it. In this session, learn how to make your data system work for you. Learn how to create specific and individualized data sheets in a fast and simple way. We will discuss ways to take data that are efficient, time saving, and useful. Once you have all this data, you need to know what to do with. Making data based decisions is critical in determining if progress has been made. Organization is the major component to a successful data system. We will discuss methods of organizing your data so you can access it readily. Staff training is also essential. Learn how to work with your staff so data is taken consistently across all areas of your classroom!

Children with autism are capable of learning to read when provided structured and individualized instruction! This session will provide detailed instruction on strategies to teach pre-reading skills, oral reading fluency, sight word recognition, reading comprehension, and word attack skills. This session will be focused on methods to organize and implement these strategies within special education classrooms for students with autism. Students with autism benefit from structured tasks, the use of visuals, multiple exemplars, discrimination training, and routine based instruction. Learn how you can incorporate these strategies to effectively teaching reading to students with autism. This session will also focus on the organizational aspect of reading instruction. We will discuss scheduling, grouping students, training paraprofessionals, and more!

Aggression and other problem behaviors can be the biggest obstacle to running a successful classroom. Whether extreme or mild, these behaviors can stop our teaching and halt student progress. In this session, learn how to use function-based interventions to efficiently and effectively reduce problem behaviors. In this workshop, begin by identifying target behaviors and determine the reason behind these maladaptive responses. Use this information to select an appropriate and effective intervention. In this session, we will discuss a multitude of interventions for each type of behavior.

This keynote presentation is perfect for a varied audience. Teachers, parents, clinicians, and other support staff will benefit from this proactive and real-world based perspective on behavior change. In this workshop, we will investigate how to increase positive behaviors, decrease negative behaviors, and how to handle emergency situations where nothing goes as planned!

It’s a daunting tasks setting up an autism classroom or appropriately integrating students with autism into the general education setting. Students with autism are all so different and have a vast array of needs. Many of these learners need to be taught individually. It can seem impossible to effectively teach a group of such different students when so many of us our understaffed. In this session learn how to organize, setup, and structure your classroom. We will discuss everything from creating an efficient classroom schedule, the physical structure, using visuals, creating a data system, and beginning your curricular planning.

Fluency is accuracy plus speed and is a must-have when it comes to making the skills we teach functional in the real world. Learn how to implement fluency instruction in your classroom with this interactive workshop. This presentation covers instructional strategies for both lower level learners and more advanced academic and functional skill sets.

Learn how to create curriculum that is engaging, appropriate, and at your child’s level. In this presentation we will go through a variety of instructional techniques, program goals, and material suggestions for language arts and math instruction. This workshop is incorporates ideas for all levels of learners.

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Let Them Shine! Promoting Independence through Age-Appropriate Tasks and Routines

Let’s get started.

Do you want your kids to grow up to be independent and self-sufficient?

Of course, you do! But sometimes it can be hard to know how to encourage independence in your children. That’s where age-appropriate tasks and routines come in. By giving your kids responsibilities and allowing them to do things on their own, you are helping them develop important life skills and building their confidence . 

Why Independence Matters

Promoting independence in children is essential for their overall development and future success. Here are some reasons why independence matters:

Builds Confidence : When children are allowed to complete tasks on their own, they gain confidence in their abilities. Accomplishing age-appropriate tasks and routines boosts their self-esteem and helps them believe in themselves.

Develops Life Skills : By engaging in age-appropriate tasks and routines, children learn important life skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. They learn to be responsible, make decisions, solve problems, and become self-sufficient individuals.

Fosters Decision-making Skills : Allowing children to make choices and decisions in their daily tasks helps them develop decision-making skills. It teaches them to consider different options, think critically, and take responsibility for their choices.

Encourages Responsibility : By assigning age-appropriate tasks and routines, children learn to take responsibility for their actions and their environment. They understand the importance of completing tasks, being accountable, and contributing to the family or community.

Cultivates Independence : Independence allows children to explore and discover their own abilities and interests. It empowers them to take initiative, be creative, and think independently. This independence translates into resilience and adaptability as they face challenges and navigate through life.

Prepares for Adulthood : Teaching children independence from a young age prepares them for adulthood. They learn valuable skills that will help them in higher education, careers, and relationships. Independence instills a sense of responsibility and self-reliance, enabling them to become successful and productive members of society.

Incorporating age-appropriate tasks and routines into children’s lives is a powerful way to promote independence. It is important to gradually increase the level of difficulty and responsibility as they grow. By doing so, we empower our kids to shine and become confident, capable individuals.

Age-Appropriate Tasks for Independent Kids

When it comes to promoting independence in children, assigning age-appropriate tasks is essential. These tasks help children develop important life skills and build confidence in their abilities. Here are some examples of age-appropriate tasks that can empower kids to be independent:

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5):

• Putting away toys and books: Teach your child to tidy up their play area by placing toys and books in their designated spots.
• Dressing themselves: Encourage your child to pick out their clothes and attempt to dress themselves, even if they need assistance with buttons or zippers.
•  Setting the table: Teach your child how to set the table, including placing utensils, napkins, and cups in their proper spots.

Early Elementary (Ages 6-8):

• Making their bed: Show your child how to straighten their sheets and fluff their pillows each morning.
• Packing their own school bag: Help your child create a checklist of necessary items and guide them in packing their school bag independently.
• Assisting with meal preparation: Allow your child to help with simple tasks in the kitchen, such as washing vegetables, stirring ingredients, or setting the table.

Upper Elementary (Ages 9-11):

• Completing homework independently: Encourage your child to manage their homework assignments and complete them on their own, with minimal assistance.
• Doing laundry: Teach your child how to sort laundry, operate the washing machine and dryer, and fold and put away their clothes.
• Taking care of pets: Assign your child age-appropriate responsibilities in caring for pets, such as feeding, walking, or cleaning their living areas.

Middle School (Ages 12-14):

• Managing a personal schedule: Help your child create a schedule for their daily activities, including schoolwork, extracurriculars, and free time. Encourage them to manage their time and commitments independently.
• Planning and preparing meals : Allow your child to plan and prepare simple meals or snacks, following recipes and practicing basic cooking skills.
• Managing money: Introduce your child to budgeting and financial responsibility by giving them an allowance and teaching them about saving and spending wisely.

High School (Ages 15-18):

• Organizing personal documents: Teach your teen how to manage important documents such as identification, school records, and financial paperwork.
• Budgeting and financial planning: Guide your teen in creating a budget, managing their own expenses, and saving money for future goals.
• Planning and executing a project: Encourage your teen to take the lead on planning and executing a project of their choice, whether it’s a school event, community service initiative, or personal creative endeavor.

Remember, it’s important to adjust the difficulty and responsibility level of tasks as your child grows and develops. By assigning age-appropriate tasks, you are fostering independence and preparing them for the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood.

Routines: The Secret Sauce

When it comes to promoting independence in children, establishing routines is like adding a secret sauce. Routines provide structure and predictability, helping children feel secure and empowered to take control of their own lives. Here are some key benefits of incorporating routines into your child’s daily life:

Promotes Responsibility : Routines teach children to take responsibility for their actions and tasks. When they have a consistent routine, they know what is expected of them and can independently manage their daily activities.

Builds Time Management Skills : By following a routine, children learn valuable time management skills. They understand the importance of completing tasks within a given timeframe and can develop the ability to prioritize their responsibilities.

Encourages Independence : Routines allow children to develop a sense of independence and autonomy. As they become familiar with their daily routines, they gain confidence in their ability to navigate through their day without constant guidance.

Enhances Organizational Skills : Following a routine fosters organizational skills in children. They learn to plan, prepare their materials, and keep their belongings in order, which ultimately contributes to their overall efficiency and productivity.

Here are some suggestions for implementing routines in your child’s life:

Morning Routine:

• Wake up at the same time every day.
• Establish a morning checklist (e.g., brushing teeth, getting dressed, making the bed).
• Set aside time for a healthy breakfast.

After-School Routine:

• Allocate time for homework or studying.
• Encourage your child to engage in physical activity or hobby.
• Establish a routine for completing chores or helping with household tasks.

Bedtime Routine:

• Set a consistent bedtime.
• Create a wind-down routine to help your child relax before sleep (e.g., reading, taking a bath).
• Encourage your child to lay out their clothes and pack their school bag for the next day.

Remember, routines should be flexible and adaptable to accommodate changing schedules or unforeseen circumstances. The goal is to provide structure and consistency, while also allowing room for spontaneity and adjustment.

Incorporating routines in your child’s life is like adding a secret sauce to promote independence. Routines promote responsibility, build time management skills, encourage independence, and enhance organizational skills. By establishing consistent routines, you are equipping your child with valuable life skills that will serve them well into adulthood.

Tools for Promoting Independence

In addition to establishing routines, various tools and strategies can further support and promote independence in children. These tools can empower kids to take responsibility for their actions and develop essential life skills. Here are some effective tools for promoting independence:

• Visual Schedules : Visual schedules are a powerful tool for promoting independence, especially in younger children or those with special needs. These schedules outline daily tasks and activities using pictures or symbols, making it easier for children to understand and follow. Visual schedules provide a visual representation of the day’s events, helping children anticipate what comes next and manage their time effectively.
• Task Charts : Task charts are a helpful way to break down larger tasks or responsibilities into smaller, manageable steps. By creating a task chart, children can visually track their progress and feel a sense of accomplishment as they complete each step. Task charts can be used for various activities, such as chores, homework, or self-care routines. As children complete tasks on their own, their confidence and independence naturally increase.
• Age-Appropriate Chores : Assigning age-appropriate chores is an excellent way to promote independence and responsibility. Involve your child in household chores, such as setting the table, doing laundry, or tidying up their room. Allowing children to contribute to the functioning of the household not only teaches them important life skills but also instills a sense of accountability and pride in their contributions.
• Decision-Making Opportunities : Providing children with opportunities to make decisions fosters independence and critical thinking skills. Encourage your child to make choices within set boundaries, such as selecting their clothes for the day or deciding on a special treat during grocery shopping. By giving them the chance to make decisions and experience the consequences of their choices, children develop confidence in their decision-making abilities.
• Teaching Problem-Solving Skills : Problem-solving skills are essential for independence. Teach your child how to analyze a problem, brainstorm potential solutions, and evaluate the consequences of each option. Encourage them to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges. By equipping children with problem-solving skills, they become better equipped to overcome obstacles and navigate through life independently.
• Positive Reinforcement and Encouragement : Providing positive reinforcement and encouragement is a powerful tool for promoting independence. Acknowledge and praise your child’s efforts and achievements, reinforcing their belief in their own abilities. Celebrate their independence milestones, no matter how small, to motivate and empower them further.

Remember, each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Adjust and customize these tools to suit your child’s individual needs and developmental stage. By utilizing these tools, you are setting the foundation for a confident, independent, and empowered child who will thrive in all aspects of life.

Celebrate Their Achievements

Celebrating your child’s achievements is a crucial aspect of promoting independence. When children are recognized and praised for their efforts and accomplishments, they feel valued, encouraged, and motivated to continue striving for success. Here are some reasons why celebrating their achievements is essential:

Boosts Confidence : By celebrating your child’s achievements, you are providing them with a sense of confidence in their abilities. When they receive recognition and praise for their hard work, they develop a positive self-image and believe in their own capabilities. This confidence will empower them to take on new challenges and tackle them independently.

Increases Motivation : Celebrating achievements serves as a powerful motivator for children. When they see that their efforts are acknowledged and appreciated, they are inspired to continue working hard and achieving their goals. Celebrating milestones and accomplishments fuels their intrinsic motivation, making them eager to take on new tasks and responsibilities.

Reinforces Independence : When you celebrate your child’s achievements, you are reinforcing their independence. It shows them that their actions and accomplishments have a direct impact on their own growth and success. This reinforcement encourages them to take ownership of their actions, make independent decisions, and strive for further achievements.

Cultivates a Growth Mindset : Celebrating achievements helps cultivate a growth mindset in children. Rather than focusing solely on the end result, the emphasis is placed on the effort, progress, and personal growth that led to that achievement. This mindset encourages children to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and persist in their endeavors.

Strengthens Parent-Child Bond : Celebrating achievements is also an opportunity to strengthen the bond between parent and child. By expressing your pride, excitement, and joy for their accomplishments, you are fostering a positive and supportive relationship. This connection encourages open communication, trust, and collaboration, further promoting independence and personal growth.

Here are five ways to celebrate your child’s achievements:

• Host a small celebration or family gathering to recognize and honor their accomplishment.
• Display their achievements, such as artwork or awards, in a visible and special place in your home.
• Write a heartfelt note or letter expressing your pride and admiration for their hard work and dedication.
• Treat them to a special outing or activity of their choice as a reward for their achievements.
• Share their achievements with extended family, friends, or teachers to further acknowledge their efforts.

Remember, celebrating achievements is not just reserved for major milestones or grand accomplishments. It is equally important to recognize and celebrate smaller victories and incremental progress. By celebrating their achievements, you are fostering a positive and empowering environment that encourages independence, self-confidence, and a lifelong love for personal growth and success.

Wrapping Up: Building Independent Kids

Building independent kids is a journey that requires effort, patience, and consistency. By promoting age-appropriate tasks and routines, you are instilling valuable skills and qualities that will serve your child well throughout their lives. Let’s review the key points we have discussed in this section:

Understand Their Abilities : It is important to take into consideration your child’s developmental stage and capabilities when assigning tasks and establishing routines. Age-appropriate tasks will not only be manageable for them but also allow them to gradually gain independence.

Start Small and Build Up : Begin with simple tasks that your child can easily accomplish and gradually increase the difficulty level as they become more competent. This incremental approach will help build their confidence and skills while avoiding overwhelming them.

Provide Guidance and Support : While encouraging independence, it is crucial to provide guidance and support to ensure your child understands the task and knows how to complete it. Offer clear instructions, demonstrate the process if needed, and be available to answer questions or provide assistance when necessary.

Encourage Responsibility : Assigning age-appropriate tasks and responsibilities helps children develop a sense of ownership and accountability. Allow them to take charge of their tasks, make decisions, and experience the consequences of their actions. This fosters independence and a proactive attitude.

Foster Problem-Solving Skills : Encourage your child to think critically and solve challenges independently. When they encounter obstacles or difficulties, resist the urge to immediately step in and solve the problem for them. Instead, guide them through the thought process and help them find solutions on their own.

Celebrate Their Achievements : Recognizing and celebrating your child’s achievements is crucial to promoting independence. By acknowledging their efforts and accomplishments, you boost their confidence, increase their motivation, reinforce their independence, cultivate a growth mindset, and strengthen the parent-child bond.

Promoting independence through age-appropriate tasks and routines empowers children to become self-reliant, confident individuals. By providing opportunities for them to take on responsibilities, make decisions, and overcome challenges, you are fostering their personal growth and preparing them for a successful future. Embrace the journey of building independent kids and enjoy witnessing their growth and development along the way.

About The Author

Robert Myers, PhD

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Independent Functioning IEP Goals Examples

Independent functioning IEP goals are a cornerstone in the educational journey of special education students, focusing on critical life skills like safety, hygiene, food preparation, social interactions, and more. A student’s goals are created by the IEP team to cater to the unique needs of each student, ensuring that they acquire essential skills for independent living. These examples are suitable for various ages, but many would be appropriate for the older grade levels.

The Role of the IEP Team in Setting Goals

The IEP team, comprising special education teachers, parents, and sometimes occupational therapists, plays a pivotal role in developing independent functioning IEP goals. These goals are tailored to the student’s ability level and are aimed at promoting independence in various aspects of life. Special education services should provide the learning opportunities to help students achieve the specific skills referred to in the life skills IEP goals. 

Keep in mind, IEP goals should always be SMART IEP goals to ensure they are measurable IEP goals to meet the individual students’ needs. 

Safety Skills in Independent Functioning IEP Goals

Safety is a primary concern, and IEP goals often focus on teaching students to recognize and respond to safety cues in their environment. This could include understanding traffic signs for safe community navigation or identifying expiration dates on food for health safety. Here are five examples of goals in this area:

• Recognizing Traffic Signs : By the end of the school year, the student will correctly identify and explain the meaning of 10 common traffic signs with 90% accuracy in three consecutive trials, as measured by teacher observation and quizzes.
• Identifying Expiration Dates : The student will independently check and verbalize the expiration dates of food items during classroom activities, achieving 100% accuracy for 5 consecutive instances by the end of the semester, as monitored by the teacher.
• Emergency Response Skills : Within six months, the student will demonstrate the ability to dial emergency services and communicate their location and nature of the emergency in role-play scenarios, as observed by the teacher in four out of five attempts.
• Fire Safety Skills : The student will correctly demonstrate the steps to take during a fire drill, including evacuation routes and meeting points, in all scheduled drills throughout the school year, as recorded by the teacher.
• Understanding Personal Safety Cues : In one academic year, the student will identify and respond appropriately to 5 different personal safety scenarios (e.g., stranger danger, unsafe environments) with 80% accuracy, as assessed through role-play and teacher observation.

Hygiene and Self-Care Skills

Hygiene and self-care are critical components of independent functioning IEP goals. These goals might include tasks like dressing independently, maintaining personal hygiene, or managing personal belongings. Achieving these goals often involves direct instruction and the use of visual supports. Here are five example of goals in this area:

• Independent Dressing : Over the next four months, the student will independently select and put on appropriate clothing for the day in under 10 minutes, with 90% success rate, as recorded by the teacher and parent.
• Personal Hygiene Routine : By the end of the semester, the student will independently complete a personal hygiene routine (including teeth brushing and hand washing) every morning, as reported by parental confirmation and teacher observation.
• Managing Personal Belongings : Within the school year, the student will organize and manage their personal belongings in their locker or backpack with no more than one reminder per day, as monitored by the teacher.
• Bathroom Hygiene Skills : The student will independently follow a bathroom hygiene routine, including proper handwashing, with 95% accuracy for 30 consecutive days, as observed by teacher and school staff.
• Self-Care During Illness : By the end of the academic year, the student will demonstrate knowledge of basic self-care practices when ill (like tissue use, hand sanitizing) and verbalize when to seek adult help, in 4 out of 5 instances, as assessed by the teacher.

Food Preparation and Nutrition

Food preparation and nutrition are essential life skills. IEP goals in this area aim to teach students how to prepare simple meals, understand basic nutrition, and practice food safety. These skills are crucial for students’ health and independence. Here are examples:

• Simple Meal Preparation : In six months, the student will independently prepare three different simple, healthy meals using safe cooking practices, as observed and assessed by the teacher in practical sessions.
• Understanding Basic Nutrition : By the end of the school year, the student will identify healthy food choices versus unhealthy ones for all main meals with 85% accuracy, as measured by a teacher-made assessment tool.
• Safe Food Handling : Over the course of the school year, the student will demonstrate proper food safety techniques, including washing hands before cooking and storing food at correct temperatures, in 90% of classroom cooking activities.
• Reading Food Labels : Within three months, the student will accurately read and interpret nutritional labels on food packages for calorie content and allergens in 4 out of 5 trials, as measured by teacher assessments.
• Grocery Shopping Skills : By the end of the semester, the student will create a grocery shopping list for a healthy meal, locate items in a store, and understand the total cost, in 4 out of 5 practical trials, as monitored by the teacher or caregiver.

Developing Effective Communication Skills

Communication skills are integral to independent functioning. IEP goals might focus on helping students to express their needs, understand others, and engage in effective communication in various settings. This could involve using language skills, visual cues, or even alternative communication methods. Check out these examples:

• Expressing Needs : Within six months, the student will accurately express their needs or wants in complete sentences in 8 out of 10 observed instances, as recorded by teacher observation.
• Understanding Others : By the end of the school year, the student will demonstrate improved listening skills by summarizing what others have said in 4 out of 5 conversational exchanges, as measured by teacher and peer feedback.
• Using Visual Communication Aids : Over the next four months, the student will effectively use visual communication aids (like picture cards) to express their needs in 90% of daily interactions, as tracked by the teacher.
• Initiating Conversations : In the next three months, the student will initiate appropriate conversations with peers and adults in 75% of social opportunities, as observed and recorded by school staff.
• Understanding Nonverbal Cues : Within this academic year, the student will correctly interpret and respond to nonverbal communication cues in social interactions in 80% of instances, as measured by role-play assessments and peer feedback.

Social Skills and Emotional Regulation

Social skills and appropriate emotional responses are vital for successful interactions. IEP goals might include learning to interpret social cues, engage in appropriate behavior in social settings, or use appropriate coping strategies for emotional regulation. Here are a few examples:

• Interpreting Social Cues : By the end of the semester, the student will correctly interpret and respond to common social cues (like facial expressions and body language) in 85% of interactions, as recorded by teacher observation.
• Appropriate Behavior in Social Settings : In the next six months, the student will demonstrate appropriate behavior (e.g., waiting their turn, respecting personal space) in social settings in 9 out of 10 instances, as measured by teacher and peer observations.
• Using Coping Strategies : Throughout the school year, the student will use taught coping strategies (like deep breathing, counting to ten) to manage emotions in 80% of challenging situations, as monitored by teacher and school counselor.
• Developing Friendship Skills : Within nine months, the student will initiate and maintain a reciprocal conversation with a peer for at least 5 minutes in 4 out of 5 opportunities, as observed by the teacher.
• Handling Social Conflicts : By the end of the school year, the student will demonstrate appropriate strategies to resolve common social conflicts in 4 out of 5 role-play scenarios, as assessed by the school counselor.

Executive Functioning Skills

Executive functioning skills such as task initiation, time management, and problem-solving are crucial for independent living. IEP goals in this area might focus on helping students plan and complete tasks, organize their work, and make appropriate decisions. Read this ideas to help you get started:

• Task Initiation : Within the next four months, the student will independently begin assigned tasks within 5 minutes of instruction in 80% of classroom activities, as recorded by the teacher.
• Time Management : By the end of the semester, the student will effectively use a planner or digital tool to manage their time for schoolwork, completing assignments on time in 90% of cases, as observed by the teacher.
• Problem Solving Skills : In six months, the student will independently solve simple daily problems (like what to do if they forget their lunch) with minimal adult intervention in 85% of occurrences, as recorded by teacher observation.
• Organizing School Work : Throughout the school year, the student will maintain an organized binder or digital folder for classwork with all materials correctly filed in 95% of school days, as monitored by the teacher.
• Decision Making in Real-life Scenarios : By the end of the school year, the student will demonstrate the ability to make appropriate decisions in real-life scenarios (like choosing appropriate clothes for weather) in 4 out of 5 instances, as observed by the teacher and family members.

Academic and Classroom Task Management

Managing academic and classroom tasks is also a focus of independent functioning IEP goals. These goals aim to enhance the student’s ability to handle homework assignments, participate in classroom activities, and use tools like graphic organizers effectively. Here are examples:

• Homework Completion : Over the next three months, the student will complete and submit homework assignments on time for all academic tasks with 90% accuracy, as recorded by the teacher.
• Participation in Classroom Activities : In the next six months, the student will actively participate in classroom discussions and group activities in 4 out of 5 opportunities, as observed by the teacher.
• Using Graphic Organizers : By the end of the semester, the student will independently use graphic organizers to plan and write essays in English class with 85% accuracy, as assessed by the teacher.
• Following Classroom Routines : Throughout the school year, the student will follow classroom routines using a  self-regulation checklist  with minimal reminders in 95% of school days, as monitored by the teacher.
• Managing Classroom Materials : In four months, the student will independently gather and organize necessary materials for classroom tasks in 9 out of 10 instances, as observed by the teacher.

Transition Plans for Future Independence

As students approach the end of their school years, IEP goals often include transition plans. These goals are designed to prepare students for post-school life, focusing on skills required for employment, further education, or living independently. Here are five examples:

• Employment Skills : By the end of the school year, the student will demonstrate basic job-related skills (like punctuality, following instructions) in a school-based work experience setting in 90% of opportunities, as observed by the teacher and work supervisor.
• Independent Travel Training : Over the next six months, the student will learn and demonstrate the ability to use public transportation independently, including planning routes and paying fares, in 4 out of 5 trials, as measured by teacher and caregiver observations.
• Post-School Education Planning : In the next academic year, the student will research and identify three potential post-secondary education options that match their interests and skills, as documented in their transition plan.
• Independent Living Skills : By the end of the school year, the student will demonstrate the ability to perform three independent living skills (like laundry, budgeting, apartment searching) with 85% accuracy, as measured by practical assessments and family feedback.
• Community Participation Skills : Within the next nine months, the student will participate in three different community activities or events, demonstrating appropriate social and communication skills, as observed by the teacher and community members.

Occupational Therapy and Additional Support

Occupational therapy and additional support play a significant role in achieving independent functioning IEP goals. Therapists and special education teachers work together to provide the necessary supports, using tools like task cards and step-by-step instructions to facilitate learning.

More Helpful IEP Goal Examples

For more insights and examples of IEP goals, explore these resources:

• Self-Advocacy IEP Goals
• Social-Emotional IEP Goals
• Executive Functioning IEP Goals
• IEP Transition Goals
• Prevocational IEP Goals
• Study Skills IEP Goals
• How to Write SMART Annual Goals
• Occupational Therapy IEP Goals

Independent functioning IEP goals are tailored to equip special education students with the necessary skills for a self-reliant and fulfilling life. These goals, crafted with care and precision, cover a wide range of skills, ensuring that each student is prepared for the challenges of daily living and future endeavors.

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