1.Learn about Autism. 2.Get to know (STUDENT). 3.Find out how we are just like alike and different from our classmates. 4.Read a book. 5.Do an activity. 6.Have a treat.

It is a condition you are born with. It is not contagious. It mostly affects the way you talk and the way you make friends.

They look just like kids without autism. They may have trouble talking. They might do the same things over and over. They might say the same things over and over. They might get very upset when things don’t go their way. They have trouble finding people to play with or be friends with. Kids with autism can learn the same things you learn. They are smart and creative.

Someone with Autism:(STUDENT): Might have trouble talking. Sometimes mumbles. Can tell you what he wants or needs. May not be able to tell a story. Might do the same things over and over. Plays with string. Flicks his fingers in front of his face. Might get very upset when they do not get what they want. Screams, kicks, lays on the floor. Can learn the same things you learn. Great at math skills: addition and subtraction, great with spelling words, reads browsing bags, and writes. Is smart and creative.Very good at computer, interested in movie productions (signs and songs), good with directions, sings well.

Things (STUDENT) Likes:Do most kids in the class like this? Yes or no: Swimming. Going to the park. Going to Chuck-e-Cheese/Bounce U. Spider Man and Iron Man. Eating pizza. Jumping on the trampoline. Going to the Movies. Playing Wii. Playing computer. Going to the beach. Airplanes. How many “YES”s:_______

Are we more different – or – similar to (STUDENT)? Let’s Count! Differences = Similarities = ____

1.Help (STUDENT) stay safe. 2.Invite (STUDENT) to play at recess. 3.Invite (STUDENT) to sit with you when the class is together. 4.Always report any bullying that you see directly to your teacher.

Time to read: Author: Beverly Bishop

1.Read your card. 2.Find your team. 3.Read your cards to the class. 4.Pick up your treat.

Activity Directions for Adults: Make three posters with the titles: 1.Things I learned about autism. 2.Things I learned about (STUDENT). 3.Things I can do to help (STUDENT). Hang them in different locations in the room. Write facts about autism, interests of the child, and things class can do to help child on index cards (one fact per card). Make one card for each child in the classroom. Hand out all the card - one card to each child. Have children read their card and stand under the poster that fits their card (most children should end up under poster “Things I learned about (STUDENT)”. Have children read cards aloud as a review – have class determine if each child is in the correct spot (under the correct poster). Small treat handed out when everyone is determined to be in correct spot.