This pack is ideal for special needs children starting in Junior Infants at Irish speaking schools. This set supports both communication and managing classroom changes. It is helpful for children, their teachers/SNA'S and parents. It includes 4 items:

• A social story for starting school. This covers all the basic practical things that happen at school and is an great way to help a language-challenged child prepare for all the little uncertainties of starting school.

• A lesson schedule - this desktop schedule shows what's happening next eg. yard time, maths, music etc. Complete with all lessons included in the curriculum in Ireland as well as 2 slots for resource time. This is compact enough to sit on the desk next to the child and helps with transitioning from one activity to the next. It also shows the days of the week and has an arrow which the teacher/SNA moves down as you progress through the day.

• A picture icon folder - this contains 28 useful icons for actions and activities in the class. It can be used both for the child to make requests (eg wanting to use the toilet) and for the teacher/SNA to give instructions/guidance (eg. cut out, draw, choose a book etc.) The front of the folder includes a removable sentence strip as well as a space to place a relevant icon. The rest of the icons are stored neatly away inside the folder. This fits comfortably on the childs desk top.

• A daily report sheet - This is included both as a printout and emailed to you in digital format so that you may print out as many as you require. You will need to ask your child's teacher and resource teacher to fill this in on a daily basis. This can be a vital piece of communication as it bridges the communication between home and school for your language-challenged child. It can be used to record what was included in the lessons of the day as well as any social issues that need addressing by the parent.

Please be aware that the lessons on the schedule are suitable for the Irish school system - including SESE, religion and Gaeilge. If you wish to customise it to the school system of another country please get in touch and I'll see what I can do.
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