FAQs

Question 1: What if we don’t have a mirror?

Answer 1: The student can watch your mouth and face and copy you. Use the instruction ‘Watch my mouth’ or ‘Watch my face’.

Question 2: What if we cannot print out the lesson resources?

Answer 2: Use your computer screen. Read from the screen to follow the lesson plan and language. Use a cheap scrapbook as a resource. Draw the basic shapes and outlines of the worksheets yourself into the scrapbook and use it as a worksheet.

Question 3: Do I need a scrapbook?

Answer 3: No, you do not need a scrapbook, you could use a folder and paper. It is advantageous to have a scrapbook because they are inexpensive; keep the lessons in order and you can more easily note the progress your student(s) by reviewing the pages of the scrapbook.

Question 4: Is it a good idea to keep a ready-to-go resource kit with pencils, felts, erasers, glue and scissors organised?

Answer 4: Yes, having a resource kit saves set up time and makes it easier to prepare the lesson plan and worksheets. You can grab the scrapbook and lesson resource kit and get started.

Question 5: What if I cannot complete all the activities in a week?

Answer 5: That is not a problem. Activities that were not able to complete in the week can be completed the following week. Utilise activities, which may have been challenging for your student(s) and create another lesson to consolidate skills.

Question 6: What if I cannot get the Mr. Men, Little Miss or Little Mate books? Can I use an eBook?

Answer 6: An eBook or hard copy is perfect. To find hard copies of the books, consider asking friends, second-hand shops, book expos, bookshops if they have copies, or search online to locate the books. If you cannot find any, search for another character book that discusses interpersonal relationships and personality.

Question 7: Should I complete the lesson in the order presented in the lesson plan? Do I need the bonus activity and game?

Answer 7: This lesson plan is presented in an order based on experience when working with learners; however, the plans can be flexible. The interests of the learner may dictate the order of the lesson plan. Be adaptive to the learner(s) in front of you. The bonus activity and games are very flexible and can be added or moved around to suit your circumstance.

Question 8: Is the warm up and cool down compulsory?

Answer 8: The warm up is not compulsory, however the book provides a gentle way to demonstrate character, personality and behaviour. It is a calming way to set a tone for the lesson. The cool down is not compulsory either, however it does provide a light-hearted consolidation of skills. The cool down game or craft is a multi-sensory exploration and self-directed learning activity. The cool down provides a link to the next lesson also.

Question 9: What if I cannot get conversation started with the student?

Answer 9: That is not a problem, conversation may come with time. Always remember your student(s) may have stronger receptive language skills than expressive. They may be absorbing more content than you expect. Have the conversation with yourself, with a teddy/stuffed animal or a friend/parent/carer who could be on the sidelines and available to have the conversation with. Help and prompt that person as you go.

Question 10: What if the student cannot read, can they still participate?

Answer 10: Yes, the student can still participate if they are not able to read. The program is designed with limited text is on the worksheets so that they can easily be read to the student(s).

Question 11: What if the sensory element of the activity does not suit my student(s) or they do not like the activity?

Answer: In this program concepts are approached using multiple methods to enable the activities to be adapted. Consider the needs of your student; how might you adapt an activity or change the sensory element to something referred? It is important to avoid unnecessary stress and compliance issues; do not continue to pursue undesirable activities with a student. You can reintroduce them at a later date.