A few basic to help teachers who are not familiar with autism spectrum disorder

1. Autism
just a few of the basics for
general education teachers
working toward an inclusive
classroom
by Connie J Bowen

2. Autism
A developmental disability that affects the
normal functioning of the brain.
The term Autism Spectrum Disorder may be
used to refer to children who have:
* Autism
* Asperger's Syndrome
* Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not
Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS)

3. From an Expert
Click picture for video

4. Symptom Examples
Difficulty with social interactions
Resistance to routine changes
Lack of clear communication
Repetitive motions or use of objects

5. Common Characteristics
Social detachment
Repetition of words or
phrases
Lack of eye contact
Struggle to express needs
verbally
Different response to sensory imput

6. Benefits of Inclusive Classrooms
for Students who are Autistic
Practice social skills
See how peers behave in different situations
Peers learn acceptance and empathy
Peers can act as role models and peer tutors

7. Guidance for Teachers
Click picture for video

8. What Else Can Teachers Do?
Have consistent routines
Watch for signs of stress, or sensory or
emotional overload
Provide a visual of acceptable behaviors to use
when upset or overwhelmed
Assign a peer buddy
Use visual rules, instructions and schedules

9. A Few More Suggestions
Plan for the student's needed transition time
Structure room so work areas are clear
Explain the purpose for all assignments
Provide rubrics and schedules for each phase
of long projects
Make the most out of what interests the
student

10. Common Issues
Communication
Challenges
Academic
Challenges
Relationships
Rigid Thinking
Sensory
Overload

11. Sensory Overload?
Click picture for video - TURN SOUND UP

12. Meltdowns
An intense response to something that overwhelms
the person with autism........not a tantrum
WARNING SIGNS: The "Rumble Stage" - student
shows signs of anxiety (pacing, repetitive
questioning or behavior
TEACHER STRATEGIES: Stay calm, provide
fidget toys, distraction, diversions, music, remove
triggers

13. What to do During Meltdowns
Remove them if in a harmful area
Don't try reasoning - they're not comprehending
Limit sensory stimulation as much as possible
Try to make them feel safe
Provide a weighted blanket or noise-concealing
headphones if available
Don't do anything without explaining what you're
doing and why
Remain calm

14. There are challenges when teaching a child with
autism, but through the challenges remember.......

15. References
10 tips for de-escalating a child with special needs’ sensory meltdowns (n.d.).
AngelSense. Retrieved from
https://www.angelsense.com/blog/10-tips-de-escalating-child-special-needs-se
nsory-meltdown/
Christensen, J. (n.d.). What are common issues in the classroom for children
who have autism? Our Everyday Life. Retrieved from
http://oureverydaylife.com/common-issues-classroom-children-autism-12623.ht
ml
Education Week (2017). Three ways teachers can support kids with autism.
Retrieved from https://www.bing.com/videos/search?
q=autism+video+muppets+understanding+education.com&&view=detail&mid=
7E6B1C86534033DC830C7E6B1C86534033DC830C&FORM=VRDGAR
Meltdowns (n.d.). The National Autistic Society. Retrieved from
http://www.autism.org.uk/about/behaviour/meltdowns.aspx

16. References
Strategies to promote successful inclusion experiences (n.d.).
Child-Autism-Parent-Café-Com. Retrieved from
http://www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com/autism-students-in-inclusive-classrooms.html
Streamofawareness (2012). Autism: Sensory overload simulation. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcS2VUoe12M&feature=player_embedded
The Meltdown (n.d.). Autism-Causes.com. Retrieved from
http://www.autism-causes.com/the-meltdown.html
Timmons, V., Breitenbach, M., & MacIsaac, M. (n.d.). Educating children about autism
in an inclusive classroom. Retrieved from
http://www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/ed_autisminc.pdf.
WTHR (2015). 3rd grader begins school year with speech about his autism. Retrieved
from https://www.bing.com/videos/search?
q=third+grader+tells+about+his+autism&&view=detail&mid=41BCDAFD6A553DBE69
3B41BCDAFD6A553DBE693B&FORM=VRDGAR