Asking the right questions helps students develop self-awareness, refine study habits, and take control of their education

Teaching students how to reflect on their learning process helps them become more independent and effective learners. After completing assignments or studying for a test, they can ask themselves questions like: “What did I do well?” “What was challenging?” and “How can I approach this differently next time?”

Together, families can decide what issues children should handle on their own—such as minor classroom conflicts—and when parents should step in. Creating a communication plan clarifies who will address academic struggles, social challenges, or other school-related concerns, ensuring that students feel supported without being overwhelmed by parental intervention.

While routines are meant to create structure, it’s important to acknowledge the pressures that come with a new school year. Academic demands, social expectations, and extracurricular commitments can quickly become overwhelming if schedules are too packed.

While consistency is important, flexibility within routines is just as crucial for maintaining psychological health. Rigid schedules can sometimes lead to frustration or stress when unexpected events occur.

Creating a bedtime routine that signals the brain it’s time to rest is key to improving sleep quality. Engaging in relaxing activities like reading a book, listening to calming music, or practicing deep breathing can help the body transition into sleep mode.

Striking a balance between work, school, and rest is key to maintaining cognitive function and preventing burnout. Students and professionals often feel pressure to push through exhaustion, but strategic rest improves efficiency and overall performance.

Dispersing physical activity throughout the day can improve learning and retention. Instead of pushing through long hours of study or work, incorporating movement—such as yoga, light cardio, or even standing desk exercises—can enhance cognitive processing.

One of the best ways to fully experience the benefits of music is by exploring different genres and styles. Classical music may enhance focus, jazz can provide a sense of relaxation, and folk or blues might offer comfort during difficult times.

Artistic expression also fosters social connections by creating opportunities for collaboration, shared experiences, and meaningful communication.

It’s important for students and their families to explore all options and recognize where their strengths lie. Some individuals excel in creative problem-solving, working with their hands, or mastering technical skills rather than traditional academic subjects.

Student support staff, including special education coordinators, disability services offices, and academic advisors, play a vital role in ensuring students receive the accommodations they need.

Effective self-advocacy in a school setting involves clear and respectful communication with teachers, counselors, and administrators.

Summer downtime isn’t just a break from school—it’s a crucial period for growth, discovery, and self-expression. Encouraging children to stay active and explore their passions ensures they return to the classroom refreshed, inspired, and ready to learn.

Extended School Year (ESY) services are specialized educational programs provided beyond the traditional school year for students with disabilities who require continued instruction to prevent significant regression. ESY is not the same as summer school; it is an individualized program designed to meet specific needs outlined in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

A well-structured IEP fosters a supportive, structured learning environment, helping students manage behaviors and stay engaged in education. By focusing on strengths and proactive interventions, schools can create inclusive environments that promote long-term success.

By recognizing behavioral challenges as part of a student’s learning profile, rather than simply as misconduct, schools can create inclusive learning environments that emphasize growth, support, and long-term success. The IEP serves as a vital instrument in this process, ensuring that every child has access to the resources and understanding they need to thrive.

The key to supporting autistic learners is recognizing their potential rather than solely focusing on their struggles. A spiky profile does not mean a child is incapable—it means their abilities develop uniquely, requiring a tailored approach to education. By creating flexible, inclusive learning environments that celebrate neurodiversity, we can ensure that autistic students have the opportunity to thrive in both their areas of strength and growth.

Recognizing and supporting twice-exceptional learners is critical to ensuring they receive the education they deserve. By shifting the focus from deficits to strengths and creating supportive learning environments, educators and parents can help these students thrive both academically and personally. A strengths-based approach allows 2e individuals to embrace their potential while developing strategies to navigate their challenges successfully.

Cognitive giftedness refers to exceptional intellectual abilities that go beyond the typical developmental trajectory of an individual’s age group. Gifted individuals often exhibit advanced problem-solving skills, heightened creativity, and rapid learning capabilities. However, identifying cognitive giftedness requires a nuanced approach, as intelligence manifests in diverse ways across individuals.