My students need two iPods, four sets of headphones, two iPod cases, and screen protectors to access relaxing and calming technology throughout their school day.
My students with autism, often have difficulty self-regulating during their school day. Trying to navigate their social environment, as well as meet academic demands, can wear them down and stress them out, both physically, and mentally. My goal is to use technology to help.
My students are high functioning kids with autism or Asperger's Syndrome.
They are often brilliant, witty and wonderful. Most have an intense fascination with, and appreciation for, technology. They are very tech savvy, and can solve almost any technological conundrum thrown their way.
My students are mostly mainstreamed, and can sometimes be found in honors and gifted classes. They receive supports from the autism program, both in their mainstream classes, and within self-contained classes, as needed.
Our autism program has existed successfully, for 13 years. Our school is a welcoming environment for these students. There is a culture of acceptance and tolerance that we are very proud of. My students are seen as integral members of their school community. April is Autism Awareness Month, and during this time, our school is lit up blue in honor of autism awareness, and participates in numerous other activities to help spread awareness and show solidarity behind our students.
My Project
My students need two iPods, four sets of headphones, two iPod cases, and screen protectors to access relaxing and calming technology throughout their school day. There is an increasing number of relaxation apps available on iPods and iPads. These may include relaxation breathing apps such as Essence, meditation apps such as Equanamity or Qi Gong, calming sounds apps such as Relax Melodies, or even journaling apps such as Worry Box. These are easy to access and easy to use.
My goal is to explore these apps with my students, have them identify the ones they prefer, and then have them available to them during their day, when they need them. This can definitely be a life skill for my students that could transfer well to their adult world and real life environments. Today, it is not abnormal to see someone working with headphones on at their desk or computer, and it is certainly more socially acceptable than a meltdown.
Having these materials, will add yet another tool to my students' coping skills toolbox.
It would be wonderful for my students to be able to plug in for a few minutes to help self-manage their stress and anxiety, and then successfully return to their school day.
Thank you for your consideration!
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