There are many opinions about autism. One believes it is on the rise, while others believe it has remained constant. Either way, we now have a better understanding of the spectrum. One out of every 43 children in the United States is autistic. It has been the reason why governments have created inclusive education programs. Many children with autism can now attend regular classes with their peers. Teachers need to learn more about autistic children and how to help them fit in and get along. Moreover, teachers should learn about stimming. Here are some points you need to know about autism, along with some things teachers should know.
Autistic Children Is Unique
Children with autism perceive reality differently than others, and their senses work differently. Children on the autism spectrum may keep their sweaters on when it’s too hot or lower their voices even if they yell or talk too loudly in class. Each child with autism is unique. Teachers should get to know the child’s personality and habits before introducing them to the classroom. Some children are quiet and loud, but many are intelligent and gifted in certain areas or subjects. They are not completely different. However, they can make progress if they receive the right support.
Using Teaching Methods Is Vital to Support Their Strengths
Like children on the spectrum, children with autism have strengths and weaknesses, but theirs are a bit more extreme. While they may do exceptional things like excel in math, art, or music, their spelling skills may not be correct. You should focus your teaching methods on their strengths, not their mispronunciation. Behavioral Zen can help you understand your autistic student. It is best not to try to stop them from repeating their behavior or changing it. This will only make them anxious, angry, and even violent.
Stimming Should Be Accepted
Some autistic children may be prone to repetitive patterns known as stimming. This is short for self-stimulation. Repetitive actions, sounds, and movements calm them and help them feel calm. They may sway, flutter, spin, shift their weight, walk backward, sway or flutter while sitting in one place. This behavior can be distracting to you and your classmates. However, find a way for them to accept it and explain to their peers that it makes them feel better. These repetitive patterns are easy to arrange in your classroom. Children with autism will feel more included when this happens.
Staying Calm Is the Best
It is important to remain calm when autistic children throw tantrums. Your body language should be casual and natural. You should not raise your voice. Sometimes you may need to talk to your child privately, outside of the classroom. However, it will help you understand what they want and need. Talking to children with autism is easier if you use simple language. Keep your sentences short and straight to the point.
Giving Them Time Is Essential
Speaking in simple language and using short sentences, it is often helpful to be patient with autistic children and not overdo it. This may not be the best approach for all children, but most autistic children will appreciate it if you slow down and don’t expect them to follow your directions. If you must give instructions, make sure it is only two steps. After talking to them, give them a few seconds to process the instructions. Paraphrasing slows down their ability to comprehend new information. When working with children with autism, the classroom environment can be chaotic.
The most important thing is to stay calm. It is not easy to maintain control in these situations. Short breaks can be your best friend, and you should use them often. When things get out of hand, take a break and go back to your desk. Patience is your best friend. Children with autism will love learning from you and listening to you.
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