Pre-K ESE vs. VPK: Understanding the Differences

If your child is recommended for a self-contained Pre-K ESE (Exceptional Student Education) classroom, you may be wondering how this type of class differs from a regular VPK (Voluntary Pre-K) classroom. Let’s learn about the differences between these two types of classrooms!

EducationJessica BarisanoJuly 28, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Special Education, Exceptional Child, Pre-Kindergarten, Voluntary Pre-K, Pre-K ESE Classroom, Public School Setting, Blended Pre-K Classroom, Pre-K ESE Curriculum, VPK Curriculum, Self-Contained Pre-K ESE Classroom

How Can ADHD Affect My Child?

Did you know that there are different types of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)? What are the signs to look for and discuss with your pediatrician?

Education, Coordinated CareJessica BarisanoJune 14, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Special Education, Child Development, Early Intervention, Early Childhood Education, Developmental Milestones, Educational Psychology, ADHD, ADHD Awareness

Test Taking Tips and Strategies for Parents and Children

As we begin to enter the final months of the 2020-2021 school year, many of our children will be taking state assessments. It is common for children to feel anxious in regards to taking tests, but what strategies can we use to support them in entering that testing environment with confidence?

Mental Health, EducationJessica BarisanoApril 5, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Exceptional Student Education, Mental Health, Anxiety, Mental Wellness, COVID-19, Coping Strategies, Teenagers, Adolescent Mental Health, FSA, State Testing, Testing Anxiety, Test Taking Tips, Test Anxiety

Five Important Questions to Ask in Pre-K Transition Meetings

If you have a child who will be entering Kindergarten next year, you are probably either already in the midst of transition planning, or will be very soon. As we near the end of what has been a challenging year for parents, students and teachers alike, here are five important things to keep in mind as you prepare to discuss plans for your child’s transition.

Education, Community & Events, Child CareJessica BarisanoMarch 23, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Special Education, Exceptional Child, Pre-Kindergarten Transition Meeting, Pre-Kindergarten

Let's Get Creative With Handwriting at Home!

Looking for some fun ways to practice handwriting at home? Not all children love the idea of pencil to paper and we definitely can think outside the lines with the activities on today’s blog!

Occupational Therapy, EducationJessica BarisanoMarch 10, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Special Education, Child Development, Developmental Milestones, Occupational Therapy, Fine Motor Skills, Exceptional Student Education, Handwriting Apps, Handwriting

Common Questions About An Inclusion Classroom

There are a variety of educational settings within the public school setting that offer varying levels of support depending on what the child needs. Today, we are answering a number of questions regarding what an inclusion setting looks like and how support and accommodations could be provided to a child to meet his/her individual needs.

EducationJessica BarisanoFebruary 23, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Child Development, Exceptional Student Education, Special Education, Elementary Education, Varying Exceptionalities Teacher, Inclusion, Inclusive Education

Navigating Mental Health Services and Health Insurance

Navigating health insurance can be a challenge when seeking to receive services, including mental health support services. Today, we are sharing tips and recommendations on how to best advocate for what you need when seeking therapeutic services.

Mental Health, EducationJessica BarisanoFebruary 17, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Exceptional Student Education, Mental Health, Mental Wellness, COVID-19, Health Insurance

Early Interventions You Can Implement Now

Do you have a child with a suspected or diagnosed developmental delay or disability and are waiting for therapies or other interventions to begin? If so, there are things you can implement at home immediately to start helping your child.

Education, Child CareJessica BarisanoJanuary 24, 2021Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Special Education, Big Abilities, Exceptional Child, Early Intervention, Early Childhood Education

Big Emotions-Little Kids

Ever wonder why your child will throw a tantrum over the smallest of things? Or why your child will start to scream when not getting what he or she wants? Our Pediatric Occupational Therapist shares insight into what emotional regulation is and steps to take to support your child.

Occupational Therapy, EducationJessica BarisanoNovember 17, 2020Collaborative Corner, Parenting, Special Education, Child Development, Developmental Milestones, Occupational Therapy, Fine Motor Skills, Exceptional Student Education, Emotional Regulation, State of Regulation, Sensory Regulation, Label Emotions