It's important to start right in a new relationship. Here are the recommended first steps if teaching autistic child in your classroom.
- Confirm that the child has had a complete medical to ensure that there are no physiological problems. Ensure the child is seen by a medical professional who has indepth knowledge on the autism spectrum disorders (especially aspergers).
- Confirm or arrange that the child has a vision test
- Confirm or arrange that the child has a hearing test. Make sure it includes an auditory processing test which will tell you if the child undestands what they hear. Make sure the child is checked for sound sensitivity as well.
- Confirm or arrange that the child has an assessment from a psychologist that is well versed with autism and especially aspergers (Call local advocacy associations like aspergers ontario and the learining disabilities association for a list of psychologists who they would recommend).
Many psychological tests are auditory- based and if the psychologist starts testing before the results of the auditory processing are ready, the tests could show low levels of ability in the child. Make sure the results are very detailed. Avoid accepting reports where the subset scores are averaged. Many children are overlooked if they have a high intelligence and their average subset scores are in the normal range. If looked at as seperate scores, it could show a gifted-learning disabled student. Make sure the diagnosis is in the report and a series of recommendations are attached to assist in developing an individual education plan (IEP) for the student. - Prepare a list of the child's strengths and needs.
- Talk to the parents and the school team. They may have ideas for both the teacher and parent
Once all the information is gathered, the parent and teacher should meet with the school identification team. This process legalizes the child's right to have their needs met with appropriate special education accommodations and / or modifications. The human rights commission has determined that education is a service and therefore the child must receive the appropriate interventions.
Remember that these activities are not a one-shot deal. Each year will bring new challenges. Always be aware of the child's stress and look for ways to help. Early intervention is the most positive way to help a child experience success.
One thing that will definitely make everyone's life easier if teaching autistic kids is to have an effective
parent-teacher communication book.
We've made life easier for you here as well. We've designed a communication book that you can customize to best meet the needs of each child. Each day can have your specific goals clearly identified at the top of each page, with an easy yes / no and notes format that respects your time. We can also personalize each book with the child's name and photo if you wish.
Not only does this custom parent teacher communication book provide an easy method for daily communication, it will serve as an invaluable tool when it comes to evaluation and transition times. Easy, accurate record keeping is always to everyone's best interest. I highly recommend that you use this book.
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