Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders Introduction Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects a child’s rate and pattern of development. This neurodevelopmental disorder* is common and may affect children to varying degrees. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder have challenges with social interactions, …
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Observing and Understanding Behaviour Introduction Why use observation? All teachers need to develop skills as observers. They need to see and record as accurately and as objectively as possible what is happening in different situations. Teachers learn most about children …
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a life-long developmental disorder that affects a child’s development in three main areas: social, communication and behaviour/play. Diagnosis Who can make the diagnosis? Diagnosis can be made by a medical doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist, preferably …
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A transition occurs when a child is required to change location, activity, environment or position. Transitions are often difficult for many children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Why are transitions difficult? Transitions are often difficult for children with ASD. Due …
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Many individuals with ASD have difficulties processing sensory information. Some or all of the child’s senses may be affected by this. Each child with ASD will have a unique sensory profile. Sensory Processing Difficulties Sensory systems: There are seven sensory …
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Reinforcement provides external motivation when a child is learning a new skill or working hard at managing their behaviour. An event that follows behaviour and increases the probability of that behaviour occurring again is a reinforcer. Types of Reinforcement Social …
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Proprioception is the feedback you get from you joints, muscles and tendons that tells you where your body is in space and assists with motor control and motor planning. Characteristics of Proprioceptive Dysfunction Experiencing difficulties with touch, balance or movement. …
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To be diagnosed with one of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders including Autism Spectrum Disorder, the child must have a specific number of characteristics in 3 categories: Social Interaction Communication Behaviour The specific diagnosis is based on the number of characteristics …
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Social skills represent the ability to accommodate or adapt to on-going situations and social interactions. Often, behavioural difficulties can result from weak or poorly developed social skills, and difficulties with language and communication. A child with language and communication difficulties …
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When requesting your child’s attention, call your child by name. Move to your child’s eye level. Touch your child to gain attention and to express affection/interest in your child’s feelings. Find something specific that’s unique about your child and tell …
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