October is a month full of magic and wonder, and it’s the perfect time to infuse your special education classroom with engaging activities and sensory experiences. In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of October-themed ideas, including adapted books and sensory adventures, to create a memorable and inclusive learning environment.
1. *Adapted Books for Seasonal Learning:*
Autumn provides a rich backdrop for adapted books that engage and educate our students. Here are some ideas:
Pumpkin Colors Adventure: Have students engage with colors using an adapted book. Incorporate tactile elements like felt or fabric swatches to make it sensory-friendly.
Ghostly Emotions: Use this interactive book featuring friendly ghost characters to help students recognize and understand various emotions using cute ghosts!
2. *Sensory-Rich Pumpkin Exploration:*
Bring the magic of the pumpkin patch into your classroom with sensory-rich pumpkin activities:
Pumpkin Sensory Bins: Fill sensory bins with pumpkin seeds, textured fabric squares, fake fall leaves and mini pumpkins. Encourage students to explore different textures, fostering sensory awareness.
Pumpkin Investigation: Engage in a hands-on exploration of pumpkins. Encourage students to touch, smell, and even taste (Pumpkin Pie!) different parts of a pumpkin to build connections with the season.
You can add Sensory Bin Learning Activities in your bins to incorporate academics with sensory fun as well! Here are 2 that I’ve created to use with my students: October Math Sensory Bin and Fall Alphabet Letter Matching Sensory Bin.
3. *Spooky Sensory Play:*
Halloween-themed sensory play can be a treat for all your students:
Ghostly Goo: Create a sensory station with homemade ghostly slime. Students can enjoy the tactile experience of stretching, squishing, and molding the gooey substance. Add googly eyes for added fun!
Mystery Sensory Bags: Prepare sensory bags with Halloween-themed contents. Fill them with items like plastic spiders, bat shapes, or even edible items like gummy worms for a sensory surprise. Have students reach in and make an inference as to what could be inside!
4. *Adaptive Halloween Art:*
Engage your students in Halloween art projects with adaptations to accommodate different needs:
Adapted Pumpkin Decorating: Provide a variety of adaptive tools for pumpkin decorating, like Velcro stickers or fabric paint for students with fine motor challenges.
Collaborative Halloween Art: Encourage group art projects that promote teamwork. For example, a class mural or a collaborative Halloween banner allows all students to participate and contribute.
October is a time for creativity, sensory exploration, and inclusive learning in special education classrooms. By incorporating adapted books, sensory-rich activities, and adaptive art projects, you can create an unforgettable educational experience that celebrates the magic of the season while catering to the unique needs of your students.
In the world of special education, every season is an opportunity to inspire, engage, and create memories. Happy October!
For a selection of Adapted Books and Sensory Ideas for your special education classroom, visit the Special Education Clubhouse Shop!
