Autism 101
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How are Autism Spectrum Disorders Diagnosed?
•Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
are diagnosed from behavioral symptoms displayed by a child. A multiple
disciplinary team team should be involved in determining a diagnosis.
(e.g., speech clinician, occupational therapist, audiologist, psychologist,
family members, physical therapists etc.)
•No medical test can determine
if a child is autistic.
Successful Intervention/Treatment
- Early intervention is key
- Intervention must be intensive (actual # may vary –
includes natural learning opportunities)
- Learning Environment must be structured
- Parent training improves generalization
- Problem behaviors are addressed from a functional approach
- Transitions are structured
- Receive instruction with typical peers to the extent it
meets educational goals
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Tips for working with Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Teach language in context
- Limit amount of language
- Emphasize communication, not speech
- Establish routines
- Create choices
- Use visual supports
- Identify communicative intent of child’s behavior
- Keep directions to 1-2 steps
- Allow for sensory breaks (e.g. walks, chewing gum, squeeze all)
- Incorporate child’s interest in lessons
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