Introduction to Autism

What is Autism? Autism is a group of disorders. People with autism have problems with –Communication –Relationships –Behavior Symptoms of autism may be mild or severe

The Autism Spectrum This is a range of disorders ranging from mild to severe, including: –Autistic Disorder –Asperger’s Syndrome –Rhett Syndrome –Childhood Disintegrative Disorder –Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

Causes Researchers have identified two causes –Genetic mutation –Environmental toxins There is no link between vaccines and autism.

Frequency Before the 1990s, 4-5 per 10,000 live births 1990s, 1 in 1, , 1 in 150 –Better diagnosis –Genetic research

Church Impact Communication problems Social functioning Emotional control Daily living skills Behavior Sensory problems Ability to read and write

Communication Problems People with autism may be nonverbal Some children might struggle with eye contact Others may have trouble with non-literal language such as idioms Participating in a conversation could be difficult Those on the spectrum may have a preferred topic

Communication Interventions Use a visual communication system Realize that these children may be listening without eye contact Speak in concrete terms and avoid idioms and slang Give prompts for replies in conversations Relate lessons to preferred topics, or use this as a reward

Social Functioning People on the spectrum may not notice other people They may struggle to carry on a conversation Those with autism are brutally honest Eye contact is difficult New situations are especially challenging

Social Interventions These children can’t learn through observation Proper behavior must be directly taught Social skills lessons must be repeated often Reminder cards may be used to teach social behavior Social rules must be clear

Emotional Control Change may be very upsetting Sensory issues may cause outbursts Anticipate triggers Teach peers how to act Know when to call parents

Emotional Interventions Taking a walk Distractions Sensory interventions such as brushing Preferred toy or object Working through a prearranged coping plan Quiet area to calm down

Daily Living Skills Hygiene is a big concern Sensory issues may impact wardrobe May not understand simple skills such as fixing a snack May not process up to 60% of a conversation Can take things very literally

Daily Living Skills Interventions Clear rules –How to dress for church –Greetings –Church behavior Routines for leaving the house Visual schedule Visual reminders

Behavior Ask parents for behavior triggers Reactions to sensory challenges can be mistaken for behavior problems Preteaching is essential to prevention –Social stories –Reminders (cards, pictures, signals) Look for reasons behind behaviors

Behavior Interventions Prevention is the best intervention Calming down place Positive self-talk Sensory interventions Consistency and routine

Sensory Problems Flickering fluorescent lighting Echoing from microphone Loud noises Motion of others Too many people Clothing (tags, scratchy thread, etc.)

Sensory Interventions Quiet dark room Headphones/hat/sunglasses Brushing away from the heart Squeeze balls Weighted lap pad or vest Wrap in a blanket

Cautions Consistency is important. Final goal should be inclusion, not exclusion. Use technology as a support and reinforcer for personal interactions. Don’t rely on technology as a babysitter. Overuse of technology can lead to social withdrawal.

Questions?