the Watson Institute

The Watson Institute’s Education Center in Bridgeville had the pleasure of hosting Emily Maddox, Instructor of Special Education at Geneva College, and a group of her students. Students enjoyed a Q&A session and touring our Immersive Reality room. We appreciate the opportunity to show Geneva College’s students our work, and to be part of developing the next generation of special education professionals! Thank you to Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) for your support of these initiatives! #specialeducation #inclusionmatters #educationforall #specialeducationinpa?

Do you work with students struggling with interfering behaviors at school? Recently Watson’s Educational Consultant, Rachel W Schwartz (she/her/hers), PhD, BCBA-D, chatted with Ashley Barlow Co. on her podcast, The Collaborative IEP about complex interfering behaviors. They talked about getting to the root of these behaviors, replacement behaviors and reinforcers, sensory process, belonging, and even shame! Check out this episode to learn strategies to address these behaviors and hear how Dr. Rachel and Ashley approach interfering behaviors with their students. #specialeducation #podcast #disability https://lnkd.in/eTuMrndf?

At a certain stage in their lives, children will experience changes to their bodies, emotions, and hormones. Puberty can be an uncomfortable period of time as children are going through a number of changes all at once. If you’re unsure how to talk to your students or children about puberty, you’re not alone. Keep reading for resources and tips shared by our educational consultant Rachel W Schwartz (she/her/hers), PhD, BCBA-D on how to approach this subject. #specialeducation #educators #teachers https://lnkd.in/eJcDJCGF

Is your school ready to elevate learning experiences, enhance teaching strategies, and improve student outcomes for learners with complex needs? Our Educational Consultants, like Abby Martello, are here to guide you every step of the way! Learn how Watson collaborates with school districts to help them meet their unique needs! #specialeducation #educators #professionaldevelopment

As an educator or parent, you know that your students or children are likely to disagree at some point. Conflict can be unavoidable at times! Learn about the Resolve or Report strategy and how you can help students settle disputes independently or with guidance from an adult. #socialemotionallearning #specialeducation #educators https://lnkd.in/e6TNXaxa

Friendship Academy students and staff are embracing the season of giving and showing their support for members of the community in need! Recently, Halle Hammer’s students partnered with the The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division to package over 300 bags as part of their “Love in a Backpack” initiative. The bags are distributed to families in need and contain items like non-perishable foods, toys, and essentials. Another Friendship student, Donovan, raised more than $1,500 on behalf of Autism Speaks! #seasonofgiving #thewatsoninstitute https://lnkd.in/esw_Swei?

Attention PennWest California students and alums: Watson is on-campus today until 1:00 p.m. in the Natalie Student Union on the Gold Rush Level! Stop by our table to chat with Megan Auge, MS-HRM and Brittani Bohn about starting your career in special education at the Watson Institute! Special thanks to Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN)) for your support of these initiatives! #nowhiring #thewatsoninstitute #specialeducationinpa https://lnkd.in/eNypTxN7?

Good manners are an essential part of developing strong social skills. Teaching your students or children about manners takes time and consistency and may require gentle reminders. Check out our top 10 recommended manners to teach when getting started! You'll want to save this post to reference again! #specialeducation #teaching #socialemotionallearning https://lnkd.in/eWH-WVTu

A big thank you to Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and Westminster College (PA) for hosting the Education Expo & Student Teacher Day! Our team was excited to share our insights on careers in special education, the innovative technology we integrate into our work, and our firsthand experiences working with students with disabilities. Engaging with such passionate and eager students was inspiring! We look forward to continued partnerships as we work together to shape the future of special education. And thank you to Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) for your support of our work. #specialeduationinpa #inclusionmatters #educators #specialeducation

WISCA Program Director, Jennifer Do, and Mental Health Therapist, Caitlyn Hall MA, ATR-P were invited to publish in the PA Department of Human Services Office of Developmental Programs Positive Approaches Journal. In their article, Jen and Caitlyn shared how art therapy is beneficial in helping students with Autism process traumatic events. Learn more about their study and its findings! #specialeducation #thewatsoninstitute #arttherapy #autism https://lnkd.in/e9R_r9-8