Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Megan Bergland Kristen Norkus

Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes you knew I am a child. I have autism. I am not primarily “autistic”. My sensory perceptions are disordered. I am a concrete thinker. I interpret language literally. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Distinguish between won’t and can’t. Be patient with my limited vocabulary. Focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can’t do. Help me with social interactions. Identify what triggers my meltdowns. Love me unconditionally. 2004 Ellen Notbohm

What is Autism? Autism is a developmental disorder that occurs in 1 out of every 166 births. This affects a child’s ability to communicate and interact socially and typically becomes evident within the first three years of life. The cause and cure are unknown. Life Journey Through Autism: An Educators Guide

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Asperger Syndrome Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) *Autism affects males more often than females (4 to 1 ratio) Life Journey Through Autism: An Educators Guide

Characteristics of Autism Social Interactions Challenges interpreting non-verbal language Rigid adherence to the rules Poor judge of personal space Trouble controlling emotions and anxieties Lack of eye contact Difficulty with pretend play Lack of facial expressions Trouble interpreting the facial expressions of others Difficulty understanding another persons perspective or how their own behavior affects others Organization for Autism Research

Characteristics of Autism Cont. Communication Challenges Often delayed in expressive and receptive language (may not speak at all) Very literal understanding of speech Repeats phrases recently stated Organization for Autism Research

Characteristics of Autism Cont. Behavior Differences Intense or restricted interest in things (maps, dates, coins, numbers, train schedules) Unusual repetitive behavior Sensory sensitivities Difficulty with transitions Possible aggressive, disruptive, or self injurious behavior Organization for Autism Research

Sensory Snafus Don’t overlook these… Flickering, glaring fluorescent lights Wrong sized seats and desks Long periods without movement Unnecessary noises Visual overload Poorly planned seating arrangements Autism Asperger’s Digest

Common Misconceptions Children with Autism can’t establish or maintain meaningful relationships with others… FALSE ! When children with Autism do not respond to the use of language, or they act out in class, it is because they are ignoring you, trying to clown around, or wasting class time… FALSE ! The only word that describes me is Autistic… FALSE !

Ways to Help Autistic Students in the Classroom Slow down transitions Utilize alternative tasks Zero in on positives Put student in a comfortable area in the classroom Low traffic area Away from distractions Avoid sensory issues Focus on talents Consistent routines (allow adjustment time for changes) Create positive social situations Avoid multitasking (clear, concise directions) Don’t make ASD an excuse Never give up Autism Asperger’s Digest

Skills Club Hands to myself Personal space Giving an answer in class This is a place where students with Autism can learn and practice new skills and behaviors to help them communicate and interact socially. Hands to myself Personal space Giving an answer in class In skills club, students learn by observing and imitating the behavior of others.

Helpful Hints Always communicate with parents… they are your best resource! Constantly inform staff regarding a student with Autism Help the substitute teacher Include key information in substitute plans about the student Include a picture of the student

In our Classrooms Get them moving Visibly display rules and routines Verbal and non-verbal cues Individual instructions Provide checklists Set clear boundaries and directions Consistent classroom management strategies Provide warning before transitions In our Classrooms

The prevalence rate of Autism has sky rocketed! No one really knows why Maybe, due to the broader definition of Autism Maybe, due to the increasing awareness of Autism among medical professionals Life Journey Through Autism: An Educators Guide

References Autism spectrum disorders: pervasive developmental disorders. (2004). Bethesda, MD: National Institute of Mental Health. Gerlach, J. (2007, September-October). 10 ways to help children on the autism spectrum succeed in school: tips for educators. Autism Asperger's Digest, 12-13, 21. Life journey through autism: an educator’s guide. (2004). Arlington, VA: Organization for Autism Research. Notbohm, E. (2005) Ten things every child with autism wishes you knew. Retrieved from http://www.ellennotbohm.com/article-archive/ten-things-every-child-with-autism-wishes-you-knew/. Notbohm, E., & Zysk, V. (2006). Help for the substitute teacher. 1001 Great Ideas for Teaching and Raising Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Robinson, K. (2011). ASD Resource Teacher at C.A. Frost Environmental Academy.