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By Karen Kaplan, MS  I decided to try puzzles for the New Year, bought a 500-piece and a 1,000-piece set, finished the smaller one, and am now working on the larger puzzle. It made me realize that putting together puzzles can build so many key developmental skills. Puzzle work can be fun and beneficial for those with neurodiversity, special needs or learn differently. First it is the process of selecting a puzzle and then it is about purchasing a puzzle. Making a choice is a life skill. The...

By Karen Kaplan I've recently visited several K-6 schools as administrators work to support all students, including those with different learning needs. After my observations, the directors asked me to summarize my thoughts and perhaps offer some suggestions on how to help the teachers support ALL students. Key observations: Several students experienced difficulty remaining seated on the rugs for extended periods and required frequent reminders to maintain appropriate posture. Some students...

By Karen Kaplan, MS As I was finishing up my special breakfast at a nearby café, a couple walked in, thinking it might be too late for breakfast, and asked the owner if they could order their special, huevos rancheros. The owner, quickly confirmed, “It is never too late for huevos rancheros.”  There was a huge smile on the customers face, and I giggled. I have always felt that it is never too late for many things, especially helping children and adults develop skills of daily living,...