This brief helps educators implementing a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework, like positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), organize classroom supports for preventing, teaching, and responding to students' social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) needs across the continuum. In classrooms, each educator implements,…

Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) represent about 3% to 5% of the school-age population and are most often educated in the general education classroom. Unfortunately, general educators may not be prepared to provide supports for children with ADHD or other types of diverse learning needs. Children with ADHD have many…

Students with strong executive function skills hold the keys to school and social success--from attention and impulse control to time management and organization. Now K-12 teachers have a practical, highly readable guide to enhancing these critical skills for "all" students, with and without learning disabilities. Through the author's memorable…

Suggests that labels of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, and behavioral disorders are inaccurate and devastating. Teachers, parents, and students must learn to recognize, understand, and manage strengths and weaknesses in brain function. Everyone has learning differences, and nobody has a perfect brain. The paper describes the…

The principle of "behavior traps" to change student behavior is explained, and examples of 25 such "traps" are suggested. The "traps" lure the child into a "success circle" of increasing positive knowledge and skills. Examples include incorporating student interests in heroes, special interests, and clubs into curricular activities; utilizing…

Addresses the problems of the slow learner, the student who does not achieve at the higher levels of the class. Discusses reasons for student failures. Suggests that all students are talented, so teachers must find ways to bring out the best in each child. (SG)

Teachers can foster open communication and parental involvement through use of a daily reportcard system for students with academic or behavior problems. Suggestions are provided for: gathering baseline data; identifying areas of concern; designing the report format; selecting reinforcers; conducting student conferences; implementing the system;…

Misconceptions of giftedness and factors influencing underachievement are outlined. Key sources of vulnerability that place intellectually gifted children at risk for learning difficulties include parent/teacher expectations, the child's self-concept for academic achievement, the child's learning style and educational needs, and the potential…

Every teacher knows about barriers to learning and teaching that interferes with student progress and academic achievement. These barriers to learning can hamper a student's ability to participate effectively and benefit fully from classroom instruction and other educational activities. For school improvement efforts to succeed in ways that truly…

In recent years, preschool and elementary school teachers have noted increases in behavior concerns and developmental delays, possibly caused by prenatal drug or alcohol exposure. This document notes that it is more important to ascertain the children's challenges than the causes. It describes the most promising practices identified for improving…