Adapted Books Are A Must

I love to use adapted books in therapy. Creating materials was one of the draws to our field upon entering and it is still something I really enjoy. I love making my own adapted books because it allows me to create lessons based on specific vocabulary that is important for my students. Adapted books can also be modified to be as easy or as difficult, based on the needs of the students you are serving.

The way that I show my adapted books varies based on my student’s engagement level and with the technology available at my various work settings. They can be shown on a smartboard, computer, ipad or as a printed book.

I use these books to reinforce or teach functional vocabulary. They lend themselves to work on reading, labeling, filling in the blanks, answering questions and cooperative group work when done with others.

Below I want to share some of my favorites.

1. 

In this book readers are taken to see all of the animals they see when they visit a farm. So fun to read when discussing this thematic unit or when going on a farm field trip. 

2. 

In this book, readers go through a story about a family trip to the grocery store. Different experiences and food encountered is discussed. So great to show on an iPad on the way to the grocery store or to discuss this functional life trip! 

3. 

In this book, we discuss activities we engage in during each season. We also discuss what clothing is appropriate for each season. It is such a wonderful way to work on categorizing as well. A must read! 

4. 

In this book, we discuss a trip to the library. I like to read this with students when we introduce the idea of going to the library. We read this book, worked on vocabulary, practiced using our library cards and then went to the library. A functional life skill and one that students can enjoy with friends and family! 

5. 

This is a book that is yet to be created! Are you looking for something specific that you just can't find. Let me make it for you! A custom book for exactly what you need. I would love to create something perfect for your students. 

So when you want to go over a specific topic with your students, think about using an adapted book. Adapted books are a wonderful resource. I hope that you will check these out and the many other titles that I have on my TPT store. 

Want to learn more about systematic language instruction for students with autism, visit me at www.abaspeech.org. 

Check out my tutorial about using adapted books here: 

An Ipad App Every SLP Needs To Know About

Do you work with students who would benefit from increased independent leisure or play choices? Do you work with students who would benefit from a simple and engaging activity? I am so excited to share with you a wonderful set of apps from Inclusive Technology/Help Kidz Learn. What makes these apps so wonderful is that they are activated by the touch of the screen and you can touch the screen anywhere! The stories are engaging and delightful to watch. The student touches the screen and it advances the story. Check out this video I took to share the awesome and ease of use of these apps.

Did I mention that many of the apps are free?! Hooray to that.

There is this super fun app all about spending time in the sensory room.

This app is all about using a vending machine. I love how the apps are about real life events that students may encounter on a frequent basis. 

This app is all about using the self checkout at the grocery store. This app is great to show students before you use the self check out or to discuss this event after using it during a family or school outing. 

Some of the apps are just entertaining and some are all about functional life routines our students may experience often. So what are you waiting for – you need to try these out!

If you want to learn more about modified leisure skills for early learners check out my webinar here. If you are working with older students who have leisure needs, check out my webinar about older students here.

Have you tried these apps before? Let me know which one is your favorite! Comment below or visit me at www.abaspeech.org.