Autism and the school is becoming a hot topic for school boards and parent groups across the country and around the world. This is because the occurrence of autism in children is increasing at an alarming rate. Educators today see exponentially more autistic children in their classrooms than they did a decade ago. For that reason, an increasing number of parents and educators want to ensure that all children receive a positive educational experience.
Since no two autistic children show exactly the same symptoms of autism, it becomes impossible to create a standardized program that creates positive experiences for children with autism in school.
Therefore, it is likely that in order to receive the best possible education, an autistic child will have to undergo an ever-changing educational strategy throughout his or her learning career.
For example, while some students on the spectrum may be able to keep up with their peers on an academic level, they may experience challenges in developing and using language and social skills. On the other hand, an autistic child of the same age, gender, and IQ level as their peers may struggle not only with social skills and language, but also with keeping up academically because learning techniques are not suitable for him or her. symptom
That said, there are a few techniques that seem to work well. This may include creating predictable and stable routines for the school day with clearly established schedules, which may include pictures. Having daily schedules that detail all of the various activities and what time they will take place can help children understand how the day will unfold and be able to better transition between the day’s various activities and tasks.
Children with autism may also benefit from attending social skills programs that aim to improve social interaction and understanding of various social cues from adults and other students. If possible, some time each day in a special education classroom where autistic students can have one-on-one time with a teacher or educational assistant will help reinforce lessons and skills learned in a “safe” environment. In this case, effective lesson support could include the use of functional communication cards to give students a break from having to communicate verbally, something that can be very tiring for some autistic children.
Don’t forget that not all school lessons are academically based. Your child may be good at art, music, or sports, for example. So if they are having a hard time keeping up with their peers in academic classes and have to drop out to attend special classes, push for them to be included in classes where they can do well. Excelling in classes where you join your peers can be an important confidence booster that allows for a more effective academic and social experience overall.
Although a diagnosis of autism and school may seem incompatible at times, it is important for parents not to lose faith that their children have the strength and ability to succeed when presented with the right learning strategy.
This is especially true when that learning strategy is supported by activities the child experiences at home. Many of these activities can be strictly fun, such as drawing or crafts, and others can be very helpful in reinforcing daily classroom routines. Parents should feel able to talk to teachers often to see what they can do at home to help make their child’s autism and school progress as smooth and positive as possible.