What is Autistic Spectrum Disorder?
Basic information
Autism is referred to as a spectrum disorder for its broad variation in the way it affects people. Every child who falls on the autistic spectrum has their own unique abilities, symptoms and challenges. The reason they are shared under one spectrum is because most students with autism struggle with communication, social interaction and behavior. “The different levels of autism range from mild to severe. The individuals with severe autism may be nonverbal and seem to be unaware of other people. Those with mild autism can appear to be incredibly smart but may seem odd in social interactions. Most people with autism are somewhere in the middle” (Reynolds, 2012, p.1). |
Assessment
There are numerous assessments that must take place to identify a child as being on the autistic spectrum, those of which are: clinical diagnosis assessment which contains a psychological assessment of cognitive level and adaptive functioning; a comprehensive speech-language communication evaluation; and a medical evaluation by a pediatrician. Additional assessments may include occupational therapy assessment and a psychiatric assessment.
Some teaching suggestions
There are numerous assessments that must take place to identify a child as being on the autistic spectrum, those of which are: clinical diagnosis assessment which contains a psychological assessment of cognitive level and adaptive functioning; a comprehensive speech-language communication evaluation; and a medical evaluation by a pediatrician. Additional assessments may include occupational therapy assessment and a psychiatric assessment.
Some teaching suggestions
- Have a calm and quiet environment
- Be patient and consistent
- Keeping instruction short and simple
- Establish a routine
- Use pictures and drawings
- Use the child’s strength to his advantage
- Gradually adapt the child into social interactions
- Praise good behavior and restate rules for inappropriate behavior
- Encourage classmates to ignore inappropriate behavior
- Create a friendly environment (no teasing)