Hello October
Wow, we can’t believe October is already here! September was a busy month as we spent lots of time getting to know one another, learning classroom expectations, and practicing our daily routines. We’re so proud to see the kids starting to settle in and become more comfortable with the rhythm of our classroom.
We’ve also added a dish-washing station to our classroom for afternoon life-skills practice. The kids have been having lots of fun learning how to wash, rinse, and put away dishes. It has been a wonderful opportunity to build independence while practicing an important everyday skill!
Our theme for October will be Autumn! We introduced our theme today by reading The Leaf Thief and pairing the story with a fun autumn leaf art activity. It was a great way to kick off our month and get excited about all the sights, sounds, and changes that come with the season.
Our core word of focus has been “go.” We’ve been learning how to sign “go,” listening to songs that help us practice and understand the word, and incorporating “go” into our literacy activities. We’ll continue looking for fun and meaningful ways to use our core word throughout the day.
We’re looking forward to a fun-filled October full of learning, exploring, and celebrating the beauty of autumn together!
September 18th Update
We have had another fun-filled time in our CSSI classroom the past two weeks! We are becoming more familiar with our daily routines and expectations, and it has been wonderful to see everyone settling in and participating in our activities.
This week, we have been focusing on the core word “like.” During our morning meetings, stories, and songs, we have been practicing the ASL sign for “like” as well as learning how to find and use the “like” button on our AAC devices. It has been great to see students exploring different ways to communicate and share what they like.
We also had some fun in the kitchen! We baked Pillsbury cookies together and, of course, enjoyed eating them as a special treat. 🍪
In music, we have started playing rhythm songs using our Boomwhackers. The students have been having fun making music, following rhythms, and experimenting with the different sounds.
We also had our first fire drill! Everyone did a great job practicing our safety routine, and the drill went well.
Please don't forget to check your email and sign up for an IPP conversation next Friday via phone call.
First Week Fun
The CSSI class had a busy first week back! It was so nice to reconnect with our teachers and friends. This week was mainly focused on getting back into routines, and getting to know our new friends. In gym, we got to explore different types of equipment like scooters, and obstacle courses. In music Ms. S and Ms. Tanis sang with us and played their ukeleles, and we also did some music and movement with ribbons. On Friday we had our first special activity - making Pizza! We read Pete the Cat and the Perfect Pizza Party and learned the ASL sign for pizza. It was delicious.
Communication, Sensory, Social Interaction (CSSI)
The Communication, Sensory, Social Interaction (CSSI) class provides educational programming for students with multiple and complex learning, behaviour, and communication needs in grades 4-12. Students receive modified programming that focuses on building foundational skills in functional academics, communication, social interaction, leisure skills, vocational skills, and skills for self-regulation. The curriculum is modified to support the personalization of learning according to the unique strengths and needs of each student. The instructional team includes a teacher, education assistants and a lunchroom supervisor. Additional supports from multi-disciplinary team members may include consultation and collaboration with behaviour support workers, specialists, strategists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, physiotherapists and psychologists.