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Teaching Autistic Children
by Bob Sheldon
Autism is a medical disorder that often affects a person's social skill development. There is a range of severity with this disease, some kids might not be able to speak, while others who have the form of autism known as Asperger's Syndrome can speak but have trouble coping with large crowds, loud noises, and certain social situations. They often have repetitive and self-stimulating behaviors that can include not so safe activities like climbing and eating inappropriate things.
A misconception about autism is that all children with autism suffer from mental retardation, or they are superbly smart. While savant-ism is one rare form of autism, children with autism have an intelligence range that is close to children who do not suffer from the disease. They can learn, and they usually respond best in one on one situations. Not being able to speak does not necessarily mean that the child doesn't understand language. Not all autistic children willingly make eye contact but when speaking with a child who has autism, it is best to be looking directly at them, and try to make sure they are returning your look. This should be done in a manner in which the child doesn't feel cornered or overwhelmed.
Children who suffer from autism can have "meltdowns". A meltdown is like a temper tantrum times ten. Meltdowns can be triggered by large crowds, loud noises, or anything that causes too much stimulation. Remember that when dealing with a meltdown the child may strike you. If this happens just remember that it is not the fault of the child, just a symptom of the disease. Protect yourself by grabbing the child's hands and firmly tell them "No hitting". The best way to deal with a meltdown is to remove the child from what is causing the over-stimulation, and give them something that has a stimulating texture, like a wool cloth or a piece of Velcro cloth. Different children respond to different textures, but this does seem to have a calming effect that reduces the length of the meltdown.
As scientists and physicians continue efforts to find out what is causing the increase in autism across the world, more teachers are coping with the increase in the classroom. When there is no training for them to deal with children on the autism spectrum, problems and misunderstandings almost always arise between the teachers and the parents. If you are a teacher who is finding yourself uncertain in how to deal with certain problem behaviors, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the parents how they deal with them. Parents know their children's behaviors and mannerisms, for the most part they will be happy that you are letting them know what is going on with their child in school, and they will be happy to offer whatever assistance they can.
If you find yourself not being able to get any official training, try to do what you can to train yourself. Reading books about autism can be a great help, but simply reading about meltdowns does little to prepare you when one happens. Almost all cities have autism family support groups, and these families would be grateful and gracious to let you sit in on a meeting or two. If there is something you are anxious to know, ask questions. By having a greater understanding of autism you will be better equipped to teach these special needs children.
About the Author
Visit schoolthemes.org to discover teacher and education tips that promote school spirit while uniting staff and students in a positive and fun learning environment. Also available, more special education resources and information for parents and educators who are teaching autistic children.
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