Mr. Lavoie's perspect on special needs children has influenced the way I deal with all types of students. Everyone has "poker chips". While I may not have the opportunity to learn what everyone's specific chips are, I always try to say something positive and give compliments to everyone. I love his spin, his practical exercises, and his demonstrations. They have really opened my eyes to a new world and a new way of thinking.
I wish all the teachers at my school would take the time to watch his video's. Especially our parapros and special ed teachers. Sometimes they can come across so harsh, like they forget so easily how these children operate.
I really enjoyed these videos and will recommend them and share them during our department collaboration, advisory committee meetings, and professional learning sessions.
Visit Rick Lavoie's Website at: http://www.ricklavoie.com/gateindex.html
It is true that a lot of times we as teachers forget or are ignorant of the fact that some students are special need and can come across are quick to judge. I am guilty of that sometimes, but I guess the challenge is to be better than what you are now. Certainly, the videos has inspired, I believe most of us into a different way of viewing some of our students. This of course does not take the rest of the students of the hook!
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