Breadalbane Academy Policies

AUTISM

Although autism cannot be cured, there are ways of dealing with these difficulties which can help the person with autism to maximise their skills and achieve their full potential.

Communication
Many strategies for helping people with autism to communicate have been developed, such as the use of symbols etc.

Certain styles of communicating with people with autism have also been shown to be more effective than others.   As people with autism have difficulties with language, being straightforward and specific can help understanding.

Social skills
Although the difficulties experienced by children with autism impact on their ability to form relationships, this does not necessarily mean that they do not wish to have friends or that they would rather be left on their own.
Many children with autism will respond to contact initiated by others on a one to one basis, while others can be encouraged to join in group activities.

Behaviour
The desire for routine and difficulty coping with change experienced by people with autism means that they cope better in a planned structured environment, with any change in routine introduced gradually.

Many people with autism develop a keen interest in a particular subject.   This can often be an advantage.   The interest can be broadened but gradually to encompass other areas, it can be used to provide incentives to help to motivate the person with autism and it can be an interest which other people can share and be a basis for communication.

Coping
Being aware of the difficulties that people with autism might encounter can help you to anticipate problems and deal with them before they arise.

(There is a CD Rom available if anyone would like to borrow).

The autistic spectrum covers a wide range of difficulties so it is essential that a child’s individual strengths and weaknesses are considered when deciding on which type of educational provision will best meet their needs.

Some children with autism do very well in an integrated mainstream setting, others may need the extra support of a special unit within mainstream, or the more sheltered environment of a special school.   There are also specialist schools catering specifically for children on the autistic spectrum.

Page last updated Tuesday, 16 October, 2007 23:25