Original PromptIDEAS TO HELP A NEW SPTA (Realistic, Easy to Implement, and Clear)
1️⃣ Give Them a “First 10 Minutes” Script
New SPTAs get overwhelmed. A simple script saves them.
Example:
Greet student with their PECS card
Check regulation (quiet hands? pacing? avoiding eye contact?)
Show the visual schedule
Set up Now/Next board
Choose first mini-task
This creates confidence right away.
2️⃣ Create a “What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do” List
Place it on a clipboard.
Examples:
Use a visual fi...
This guide is designed for new Special Education Paraprofessional Teaching Assistants (SPTAs) to help them effectively support students with special needs. It outlines foundational strategies for creating structured routines and clear guidance that foster student independence. The first section introduces a morning routine that ensures a calm and predictable start to the day, helping students to arrive, unpack, and settle into their tasks with minimal prompting. Key techniques include the '5-Second Wait Rule' for encouraging independent responses and guidance on how to support students in various settings, whether one-on-one, small group, or whole class. The document also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing student needs, utilizing visual schedules, and implementing the 'Calm Reset' technique for de-escalation. Additionally, it discusses how to employ the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) for effective communication and promotes the practice of dignity when interacting with students. The framework emphasizes planning, monitoring, and reflecting on daily goals, alongside strategies for specific praise and support, fostering an environment that builds student confidence.