Just as students get used to the getting-ready-for-recess routine, the snow comes, and we're back to basics. Arm yourself with caffeine, patience, and these visuals because getting a class full of preschoolers, kindergarteners, or special education students ready in full winter gear is no easy job!

With over a decade of experience in helping young special education students prepare for winter recess, I can assure you that visual aids are a game-changer. The winter season might throw in a few extra challenges, but with the right tools, you can make the process smoother and more efficient.

In this blog post, I'll dive into a resource filled with visual aids that are designed to simplify the winter recess preparation. From low-prep posters to interactive visual schedules, these tools have been a lifeline for educators like myself, making a world of difference in our classrooms. Let's explore how they work and why they're worth every penny.

This resource includes various styles of low-prep, one-page posters that you can display for individual students, or the whole class! They are incredibly user-friendly—simply print, laminate, and hang. Two of these posters even feature convenient check boxes, allowing your students to mark off each step as they complete them. You have the flexibility to use the included tokens or simply use a dry erase marker to make the process as hassle-free as possible.

In the chaos of getting a class of young students ready for winter recess, these low-prep posters are like a guiding light. They provide a clear, visual roadmap for your students, helping them stay on track, maintain their attention, and complete tasks more independently.

Full Size Step by Step Posters

The full-size posters in this resource are nothing short of stunning. With a total of 9 posters, they guide students through every step of the winter recess dressing sequence. Each poster features a beautiful blue border, and showcases a high-quality Boardmaker picture symbol that aids comprehension. The simple yet impactful text, presented in a clear and bold, easy-to-read font, ensures that students can easily follow along.

These full-size posters are designed not only to assist with the practical aspects of winter gear preparation but also to create a visually engaging and calming environment. The use of a soothing blue color scheme promotes a sense of calmness, an essential aspect of managing the sometimes hectic moments before recess.

Interactive Visual Schedules with Movable Pieces

Also in this resource, you'll discover vertical and horizontal templates to create interactive visual schedules. These schedules offer a level of flexibility that can be a game-changer in your classroom. You can hang them on the wall or create a file folder version that students can carry with them, ensuring that your visual support is always within reach.

The process is brilliantly simple. Laminate the posters and the included Boardmaker Picture Symbols, then add velcro. This allows you and your students to easily add and remove pieces as needed. Whether it's for getting ready for winter recess or any other classroom routine, these interactive visual schedules empower students to take control of their tasks and follow a clear step-by-step guide, promoting independence and reducing the stress of transitions.

First Then Board with Token-Based Visual Schedule: Tailored Support

If your students require more intensive support for their winter recess dressing, check out this unique token-based visual schedule system. This resource goes above and beyond by incorporating a "First Then" board and built-in storage for the included choice icons and tokens. It's all about individualization and organization to make things easier for you and them! No more missing pieces, or looking for that ONE picture symbol you can’t seem to find.

This small and portable system simplifies the process for both students and teachers. Here's how it works: students choose a preferred activity from the choices you've made available, and then place it on the first then board. They then earn a token each time they complete a step. Once they've successfully completed all five steps and earn all five tokens, they earn their choice, and their on-task behavior in getting dressed is positively reinforced. It's a method that works incredibly well, and I can assure you, both you and your students will love it.

As a seasoned educator with over ten years of experience in early childhood special education, I've learned that the magic of teaching often lies in the tools and resources we use. Winter recess preparation, especially for special education students, can be a challenging task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Visual aids, as showcased in this resource, can be your secret weapon. From low-prep posters to stunning full-size visuals, interactive schedules, and an ingenious token-based system, these tools are designed to simplify the process and empower your students to be more independent. And let's not forget that soothing blue color scheme, promoting a sense of calmness, even in the most hectic moments.

If you're ready to make your winter recess preparation more manageable and enjoyable for both you and your students, don't miss this opportunity. You can learn more about the full set of visuals here.

So, gear up for winter recess with confidence and a touch of magic. Your classroom, and your students, and your sanity will thank you.

xo Donna

PCS and Boardmaker are trademarks of Tobii Dynavox LLC. All rights reserved. Used with permission.