Z Snowy Circle Time for Teens with Special Needs—Autism, Down Syndrome, etc.
In this fun class geared toward learners with developmental and intellectual challenges, we will have show & tell, sing songs, make an easy snowman craft, and have a “snowball fight”! Social & communication skills are the primary focus.
What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Stuck in the house? Need some social time? Let’s play in the snow—virtually! We will talk, sing several songs, make a snowman craft, and have a “snowball” fight in this fun celebration of winter! The class environment will be warm, relaxed, and encouraging. Our songs are very, very simple, using tunes we all know, as well as simple, easy-to-remember lyrics. We will open our class with a welcome song, followed by a brief sharing/show and tell time. Learners are encouraged to participate any way they choose. They may want to show a favorite toy or other item. (Winter-themed things are great, but it could be anything!) Or, they may just want to say something to the group. Every learner is celebrated and encouraged! We will make a snowman mask craft, then use it to pretend to be a snowman and sing a fun song. We will develop our language skills by using different words in the song: “I’m a silly snowman . . . ,” “I’m a cold snowman . . . ,” etc.). We will also sing a fun song about getting dressed to play in the snow. At the end of class, we will have a virtual snowball fight! Learners of all abilities are welcome! Though the focus of our class is to develop communication and social skills in learners with intellectual, developmental, and physical challenges, typical children are also encouraged to take this class. ("Typical" is a term often used to describe children who do not receive special education services.) In many classes I have taught, typical children have worked alongside their peers with special needs. It's great for children to learn empathy and compassion, and to develop friendships. There are no baseline or special skills required. I encourage each parent to message me with their learner's specific needs, learning goals, favorite songs, or any information that can help me to create a positive, effective learning environment. It will be helpful for parents to be nearby for students who need help with the craft (cutting, gluing, taping, etc.). If a learner is unable to complete the craft even with help, it's fine for the parent to do it for him/her. Class schedule: Welcome song/introductions Sharing time/show and tell Snowman craft Snowman song Play in the Snow Song “Snowball fight” Goodbye song
Other Details
Parental Guidance
I encourage parents to be nearby for students who need help with the craft (cutting, gluing, taping, etc.).
Supply List
Supplies: “Snowball” fight: White wadded paper, wadded tissue paper, Poly-fil, cotton balls, or large pom poms for “snowballs” . . . anything white and lightweight that will not damage your device! Snowman mask: 1) Hat Printed template (posted in classroom) Black construction paper or cardstock 1 piece of colored construction paper or cardstock (your choice of color - not black) Snowflake stickers OR cotton balls to decorate snowman hat 2) Face Plain white paper plate (any kind, but the flatter the better) 3) Handle Large or jumbo craft stick OR paint stir stick OR ruler OR plastic knife OR empty paper towel roll Basic supplies: Glue stick Tape (any kind)
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Kentucky Teaching Certificate in Music/Theater/Arts
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Western Kentucky University
Bachelor's Degree in Music from Western Kentucky University
I have taught children and young people with special needs for over 20 years. When I taught music in public school, I had a special class for learners who were severely and profoundly disabled. In my undergraduate and master's level education classes, I have had extensive training in differentiating instruction for learners with intellectual, behavioral, and physical disabilities. For many years, I have volunteered at Special Olympics; I love it! I especially enjoyed volunteering in a Sunday school class for children with special needs. I have worked with children with severe autism, Down's syndrome, Williams Syndrome, FASD, and a variety of other developmental challenges.
Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$8
per classMeets once
30 min
Completed by 3 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-17
1-6 learners per class