A Practical Tool for Special Educators 

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Get a clear snapshot of a learner’s strengths, needs, and next steps without guesswork. The Self-Contained Skills Assessment Checklist helps you assess, plan, teach, and track progress across key domains so instruction is intentional, measurable, and meaningful. 

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Download your FREE editable 30-page checklist to begin today!

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Why This Checklist Matters

This tool was designed for educators and teams working with learners in self-contained classrooms who want:

• A compassionate, whole-child snapshot of current ability levels. 

• Actionable data — not just notes — that can be used for planning and IEP goals. 

• Clarity on what to teach next across daily living, communication, motor, and pre-academic skills. 

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Whether you’re preparing for an IEP meeting or building daily routines, this checklist turns everyday observations into meaningful growth. 

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What’s Inside

This editable 30-page packet includes:

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1. Student Overview
Mobility, communication modes, attention, self-care, toileting, feeding, behavior. 

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2. Daily Living Skills (ADLs)
Feeding, handwashing, dressing, fasteners, hygiene. 

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3. Communication
Verbal & AAC use, following directions, requesting/protesting, early language skills. 

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4. Gross & Fine Motor
Balance, playground navigation, grasping, tool use, pre-writing strokes. 

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5. Pre-Academics
Attention/readiness, matching, receptive/expressive skills, early literacy & math, classroom behavior. 

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6. Editable Pages
Customize with your own targets or program needs. 

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How to Use It

1. Establish a Baseline
Observe natural routines (arrival, centers, lunch, transitions) and rate each skill. 

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2. Set Priority Targets
Choose high-leverage skills across domains and plan instruction around them. 

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3. Plan Instruction
Break skills into teachable steps with prompts and visuals. 

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4. Track & Adjust
Reassess every 6–8 weeks and revise goals as needed. 

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From Checklist to Goals

Use your assessment results to:

• Write measurable goals for IEPs or individualized learning plans. 

• Identify entry points for instruction that build independence. 

• Communicate baseline and progress clearly with teams and families. 

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Grab the Checklist Here

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