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Elevating Instruction: Preparing Teachers for Diverse Classrooms
For general education teachers, specialized training and consistent support in working with students with disabilities is no longer a niche skill—it’s a foundational requirement for effective teaching.
Despite this reality, there is currently no mandate for general education teachers to undergo professional development focused on diverse learners as part of their recertification requirements. Preparing these teachers with instructional skills benefits every student and teach

DJ Nicholson
Nov 113 min read


Guiding Non-Traditional Teachers with Coaching and Professional Development
Instructional coaching is the single most effective lever for translating educational theory into actual, high-quality classroom practice. It's a collaborative partnership with no evaluation attached to it, and teachers can really appreciate that. For a teacher lacking traditional training, an instructional coach is their personal guide to more effective instruction.

DJ Nicholson
Nov 63 min read


Tailoring Learning: Differentiation & Specially Designed Instruction
Differentiation and specially designed instruction aren't one-size-fits-all solutions. The key is to be flexible, creative, and responsive to your students' diverse needs. By tailoring your teaching, you can create a classroom where every student feels challenged, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

DJ Nicholson
Oct 182 min read


Building Calm, Clarity, & Engagement: Routines, Schedules, & Visuals for Success
For students with sensory and emotional needs, the classroom can sometimes feel overwhelming. Unpredictable routines, unclear expectations, and sensory overload can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even meltdowns. The good news is, there are simple, yet powerful tools you can use to create a calmer and more predictable learning environment: routines, schedules, and visual supports.

DJ Nicholson
Oct 22 min read


Low-Tech Super-Power: Supporting Kids with Simple Tools
Do you have students that might benefit from AT?
Assistive technology (AT) is a powerful ally for creating inclusive classrooms, but it doesn't have to mean expensive gadgets and complicated software. Sometimes, the most effective tools are readily available, affordable, and require no batteries! Enter the world of low-tech AT and learn how everyday items can be transformed into powerful learning enhancers.

DJ Nicholson
Aug 82 min read


Supporting Every Learner: Strategies for an Inclusive Classroom Environment
Imagine a classroom filled with energy, where every student feels valued, supported, and challenged. This isn't just a dream; it's the reality of inclusive classrooms.
Inclusion isn't just about accommodating students with disabilities; it's about fostering a diverse learning environment that benefits ALL children. Here's the secret: inclusion benefits all kids.

DJ Nicholson
Jul 182 min read


How My Learning Style Took Me From an 'A' to a 'D' in One Fell Swoop!
While this recount is from 1985, this practice of insisting that EVERY child do EVERYTHING the SAME way is still happening! What was the

DJ Nicholson
Mar 233 min read


Support and Supercharge Executive Functioning!
Let's get creative when considering how to support kids that struggle with executive functioning, skills that help kids focus, make decision

DJ Nicholson
Dec 28, 20242 min read


Six Tips to Empower Parents in the IEP Process and Get Involved in Your Kid's Best Learning!
Being a parent of a kid with autism or other disability can make the whole Individual Education Program (IEP) process feel pretty daunting.

DJ Nicholson
Dec 2, 20242 min read


My Kid Needs More Support in School. What Do I Do?
Every kid should get what they need to be successful in school regardless of disability or neurodivergence.

DJ Nicholson
Nov 25, 20242 min read


Including Kids on the Autism Spectrum: Anthony
Five-year old Anthony truly was one of my most favorite students ever. He saw the world through a unique lens, with a lot of wonder...

DJ Nicholson
Nov 18, 20243 min read


Yet Another "Ism": Ableism is a Barrier to Inclusion
Inclusion and equitable access to education are fundamental principles of a well-rounded society. Howver, ableism...

DJ Nicholson
Sep 19, 20243 min read


The Power of Flexible Seating: Creating Dynamic Learning Spaces for Kids
In the world of education, classrooms are evolving, and one of the most exciting changes is the introduction of flexible seating. But...

DJ Nicholson
Mar 10, 20242 min read


Top Ten Essential Learning Supports for Autistic Kids!
You asked! So here goes... Visual Supports: Visual schedules, charts, and cues help autistic kids understand routines and expectations...

DJ Nicholson
Feb 17, 20242 min read


The Importance of Expression and Learning Engagement for Kids with Autism
"I know what he means." WHAT?! HOW?! Every child needs a voice. Every child. That means for a child with autism who does not have a...

DJ Nicholson
Feb 3, 20243 min read


IEP Secrets from an Insider
Are a IEPs a bit... combative? Wonder what they are thinking on the other side of the table? Curious how you can create a world where...

DJ Nicholson
Jan 7, 20241 min read


Special Education “Labels”: Another Barrier to Inclusive Learning
Author’s note: I am not a fan of "labels". I have seen over the course of my years in special education, so many instances of...

DJ Nicholson
Nov 17, 20232 min read


Empowering Every Child: The Vital Importance of Learning Tools for Kids with Disabilities
In a world that thrives on diversity, it's essential that we create an inclusive environment for every child to grow, learn, and succeed....

DJ Nicholson
Aug 24, 20233 min read


Examples & Benefits of Flexible Seating
Flexible seating in the classroom refers to a teaching approach that allows students to have a choice in where and how they sit during...

DJ Nicholson
Aug 18, 20232 min read


Artificial Intelligence: What's the Big Deal?
Such a "controversial" topic: Artificial Intelligence. The Oxford Dictionary defines artificial intelligence (AI) as "the theory and...

DJ Nicholson
Jul 26, 20233 min read
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