The three phases of learning and support in becoming a certified spark* practitioner:
PHASE I
PHASE II
After registering, you will receive:
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two chapters of the spark* Certification Training manual. These outline activities you need to complete before Phase II.
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surveys about your background, experience, training, and beliefs about self-regulation. This information helps us tailor the workshop to you.
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other surveys will help you look at executive function profiles, your own as well as that of a student you select.
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access to an online training module about executive functions and self-regulation. Successfully complete the questions at the end and you’re almost ready to start.
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guidance in starting your own daily mindful breathing program.
The last step to getting ready for Phase II is to begin reading parts of the spark* manual (The Autistic Child’s Guide: Presenting spark*).
Prior to the certification workshops, you'll receive:
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parts three and four of the spark* Certification Training manual. Phase II information will include the workshop schedule, PowerPoint note pages, plus many helpful resources.
The workshops will be in two to three-hour segments to give you chances to try things out and reflect on your learning. In the workshops, we will:
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explain the structure of each unit and lesson in spark* and the rationale for it.
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practice implementing lessons for teaching behavioral, cognitive, and emotional self-regulation. This will give you chances to try out activities and strategies and ensure the integrity of the spark* model.
Training highlights:
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Personalized and interactive learning
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Opportunities for practice and discussion to maximize learning
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Strategies for building children's independence and self-reliance
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Resources you can begin to use right away
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Specific feedback on your application of the strategies and principles of spark*
PHASE III
Within two months of the certification workshop series (Phase II), you will:
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submit five 10-minutes videos of you implementing spark* lessons with children.
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receive detailed feedback after they are carefully reviewed, looking for your lesson preparation, structure, and use of the Language of spark*.
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be designated a Certified spark* Practitioner or be asked to make specific improvements and resubmit videos.
Following successful completion of the certification process, you will:
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have your name listed on the Self-Regulation Central website.
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be invited to a private Facebook group for Certified spark* Practitioners to share:
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student examples
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challenges
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successes
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be given ongoing support for one year.
Learning objectives:
By the end of training, you’ll be able to:
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Explain self-regulation, the five key executive functions, and the relationship between executive functions and self-regulation.
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Describe how executive functions and how uneven profiles affect our learning and behavior.
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Discuss the impact of mindful breathing on our physical and mental states.
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Apply the Language, principles, and strategies of spark*.
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Understand explain the progression of skills within spark*.
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Demonstrate accurate implementation of spark*.