UW Stout Conference and other happenings

The UW-Stout conference went well and I've been asked to do a few more book club topics at NTC. I'm getting closer to meeting the requirements needed to get a few more adjunct opportunities, so things are really just fine. I'm excited that I've been asked to do some writing about play for WECA. I'm thrilled at this opportunity to share an absolute passion of mine. I've written about it once, here. I've been asked about some Speech and Language info and some special education into so I've posted some links below. I've also written about Early Childhood Special Education previously here.

Speech and Language Links
Speech Sound Development
Speech Sound Development 2
When to make a speech referral
Manding
Applied Verbal Behavior
Language Facilitation
Language Facilitation 2

Early Childhood Special Education Links
The Division for Early Childhood
Topics in Early Childhood Special Education
The P.L.A.Y. project
I.C.D.L.

UW Whitewater Conference

I had the opportunity to present at the UW-Whitewater Early Childhood Conference. What a treat! There were some wonderful presenters there including: Dr. Becky Bailey, Holly Elissa Bruno, and David Stokes. My presentation went pretty well. The feedback was about 85-90% positive, much better than my last presentation. The feedback I was given was very constructive and I'll use those pointers for my next presentation. What has been facinating about this whole experience is the amount I have grown as a presentor. Seeing more experienced, nationally recognized speakers gives me ideas for challenging and improving my speaking style. Each opportunity to speak is a chance to grow.

Naso was present there. I had no idea this company was located in Ft. Atkinson. They had a tremendous sale and I was able to get a Bev Bos book for only 4.00!!!!!

More resources for challenging behavior

At this point in my life, I feel as though I am living and breathing challenging behavior with a few children in my classroom. My staff are frazzled and I am working hard to give them the resources they need, but what I am doing for them just does not seem to be enough. When the idea of more training is suggested, I get the response, "I don't know. . . . . " To me, that sounds like staff have given up and choosing to be miserable, but perhaps I am just being cynical.

Since challenging behavior, staff burnout, and stress are weighing heavily on my mind, I thought I would add some resources for these issues.

PBS Parents
Positive Intervention and Behavioral Supports
Teacher Burn Out
Managing Stress
Managing Teacher Stress
Education World Stress Relief Kit

Twitter!

I'm now officially on Twitter.