By Carmesha Phillips

Introduction In America today, Autism is one of the most prominent disorders that affect the classroom today. Luckily, for us, there are ways that we can help these students. If we know exactly what this disorder entails, we can effectively tear down the barriers these students face day to day.

What is Autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by Social Impairments Communication Difficulties Behavior

Symptoms of Mild Autism In early childhood from birth to toddler age of 3 years old can be noticeable. Not being able to recognize their parents with eye contact of name calling. Difficulty starting or participating in conversations. Socially clumsy, including difficulty initiating and holding a conversation. Mildly autistic children can also have a hard time making friends.

Symptoms of Mild Autism May exhibit mood swings that range from mild to extreme, depending on the situation. May display poor motor function and be somewhat uncoordinated when it comes to physical activity. Resists change in schedule and may even react violently to adjustments to their daily routine.

Screening Of Autism The "right" professional may be a psychologist, a developmental pediatrician or a pediatric neurologist - - but the most important criteria is that the expert you choose has experience with and knowledge of autism spectrum disorders. Can be diagnosed with a medical test, screening and diagnosis involves interviews, observation and evaluations.

Effects on the Family For many families, an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming. It seems to change everything, and it can affect your relationship with your spouse, your friends, and your child. But your child is still the person he or she always was -- and there's plenty of help, hope and support available.

Teaching Autistic Children Organize the student’s activity—daily schedules, mini-schedules, activity checklists, calendars, choice boards Provide directions or instructions for the student— visual display of classroom assignments, file cards with directions for specific tasks and activities, pictographs and written instructions for learning new information Assist the student in understanding the organization of the environment— labeling of objects, containers, signs, lists, charts, and messages

Conclusion Autism is one of the number one special needs of children in America today. This disorder is diagnosed as early as infancy and as late as adulthood. Through programs developed by specialist, we as educators can help a child his highest potential in the class room.