Discussed in this Episode:

✅  Create a physical “Hub” space with individual desks, visual timers, and therapeutic tools like theraputty.

✅  Implement daily “anchor points” where high-needs students start their day in the Hub with a structured routine.

✅  Develop “roadmaps” (social scripts) that outline the bones of the day, helping students prepare for transitions and changes.

✅  Establish consistent classroom and playground expectations with simple rules (e.g., whole body listening, hand raising, respect).

✅  Schedule regular regulation breaks instead of reactive “call outs” to prevent escalation.

✅  Create individualised skill-building sessions (“springboards”) targeting specific needs like stopping when asked or handling loss.

✅  Develop personal plans that follow students year to year, reducing teacher preparation and student anxiety.

✅  Implement “check engine” moments where students can self-identify when they need regulation support.

✅  Create common language scripts for teachers to use when responding to inappropriate behaviours.

✅  Read classroom and playground expectation scripts daily to establish consistent language and expectations.

Listen now to learn about strategies to set up your classroom for your students!

This week’s Podcast is an interview with Principal Renea Dunleavy. She shares about a fantastic initiative at her school –  “The Hub.” From anchor points for high-needs children to structured starts that set the tone for the day, they have reduced anxiety and school refusal, clearing the path to educational success. Renae shares insights and strategies for fostering a positive learning environment. This initiative is a testament to the power of effective classroom behaviour management and student engagement. By implementing innovative strategies, we’ve seen a transformation in how our students interact and learn.

Here’s how the hub looks set up with a time timer, theraputty and individual schedule

• Whole-School Consistent Language and Expectations

• • School-wide uniform rules and language
  • Reduction of confusion and anxiety

• Personalized Plans for Each Child

• • Individualized approaches for specific needs
  • Importance of continuity across school years

• Check Engine for Optional Support

• • Safety net for students seeking help
  • Promotion of self-regulation and support systems

Join Sue for an upcoming Live Virtual Workshop where you will learn Sue’s practical tips & strategies to make a difference.

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Join me for an upcoming Workshop:

Sue Larkey Workshops

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