Some of my groups are a little challenging in terms of behaviors. I have found that choosing the right social skill based on needs of the group has greatly helped my sanity. Sometimes we stay on the same learning target for longer than a week. We also revisit the learning targets, if needed. For example, one of groups was on, "I will ask before I take something that doesn't belong to me" for a month! Possibly the closeness of a small group made things more challenging, but this group couldn't keep their hands off of other student's supplies (and mine). I cannot tell you how many times I said, "What's our learning target?" and "What do we do when we want to use someone's supplies?" I probably said this 100 times in a week (not exaggerating).
Some of the learning targets have been:
I will use my words when someone makes me mad.
I will use my manners.
I will keep my hands to myself.
I will ask permission before I take something that doesn't belong to me.
I will count to five and take a deep breath before I respond.
Last week, my principal did a walkthrough during this group. I was so proud of them. She couldn't believe how focused and on-task they were. I realize that it is the end of the year, but they have come such a long way!!! Incorporating social skills learning targets made a difference. Even though I wanted to give up after the first week, I'm glad I persevered!
My two favorite author's for teaching about social skills in the classroom are Mo Willems and Julia Cook. They are great at making social skills concepts enjoyable for students. I love how Mo Williems' books subliminally spread a message of good manners and being a good friend! Julia Cook has a book for every social skill needed :)
Download my Learning Target signs for free!! There are two files included and you can edit one of them!
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