1. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism Behaviour as communication Difficulties in understanding and expressing their needs and desires. Communicate in idiosyncratic ways May misunderstand and may be misunderstood - leading to frustration, aggression, destruction and self injury

2. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism Behaviour serves as a function Creating order - e.g. ritualistic behaviour. Stress relief- e.g. time alone. Self stimulating - e.g. rocking, calming Pain relief - e.g. hitting, self biting. Compensating for sensory issues - e.g. spinning

3. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism Behaviour happens in a context Environment is important – where, when how often, who with? Sensory environment – e.g. shops, dinner time. Structure of the environment Social environment Language environment

4. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism Behaviour as symptoms Difficulties in communication, interaction and flexible thinking Sensory issues Stress and anxiety Boredom Illness

5. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism What factors promote positive behaviour? Calm, structured environment Warnings of change Clear rules and expectations Clear, simple, unambiguous language Visually supported communication

6. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism. Awareness of individual sensory sensitivities. Activities to meet sensory needs Use of individual special interests Stress management strategies Social stories.

7. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism References Attwood, T. (1993) Why does Chris do that? Stephen Austin and Sons ltd. Hertford Clements, J. and Martin, N. (2002) Assessing the behaviours regarded as problematic for people with developmental disabilities. London: Jessica Kingsley Clements, J. and Zarkowska, E. (2001) Behavioural Concerns and Autistic Disorders, London: Jessica Kingsley

8. Herts.CSF Specialist Advisory Service - Autism Dickinson, P. and Hannah L. (2005) It Can Get Better. NAS Cumine, V. Leach, J. & Stevenson, G. (1998) Asperger’s Syndrome - a Practical guide for teachers. London:,David Fulton Jordan, R. & Powell, S. (1995) John Wiley & Sons Whitaker, P. (2001)Challenging Behaviour and autism. NAS