What I learned from working with kids with autism?

I learned that my job is to help the children I work with live life to their fullest potential, but that will look different for every person. We live in a world with societal norms and expectations. Everything needs to be done in a particular way that often doesn’t work for these children.

What is the most important thing to know about autism?

Autism spectrum disorder now affects 1 in 68 children. Boys are nearly 5 times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ASD. Autism spectrum disorder is one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the United States. ASD is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined.

Why is it important to learn about autism?

When you teach neurotypical children about Autism awareness, acceptance, and appreciation, they fearlessly lead the way in embracing, respecting, and supporting children with ASD. Improving awareness and empathy is about creating greater acceptance of children or adults with Autism.

What do I need to know about raising an autistic child?

Helping your child with autism thrive tip 1: Provide structure and safety

• Be consistent.
• Stick to a schedule.
• Reward good behavior.
• Create a home safety zone.
• Look for nonverbal cues.
• Figure out the motivation behind the tantrum.
• Make time for fun.
• Pay attention to your child’s sensory sensitivities.

What are the positive effects of autism?

Recent research has shown people with autism often outperform others in auditory and visual tasks, and also do better on non-verbal tests of intelligence. In one study by Mottron, on a test that involved completing a visual pattern, people with autism finished 40 percent faster than those without the condition.

What is important to an autistic child?

Physical activity is also great for kids with autism — it can help improve their fitness, coordination, strength, and body awareness. Regular physical activity can help prevent childhood obesity. Exercise may also help decrease repetitive, self-stimulating behaviors and improve attention.

What is the best way to teach children with autism?

Most children with autism are sensitive to abrupt changes in routine and will learn best in routine situations. Therefore, whenever possible, it is most effective to maintain a predictable routine when teaching children with autism. This ensures that each child will know what is coming next so that they can anticipate and prepare.

Why are social skills so important for children with autism?

Social skills are often an area that children with autism have difficulty with. In particular, the “unwritten” social norms are often the most difficult. Regardless of the skill or subject being taught, social skill practice for children with autism is critical. Below, we will explore some ways to support social skills for children with autism.

How can visual cues help kids with autism?

Visual cues can be a way to help kids with autism learn and retain skills and to aid with communication. A visual cue might be a picture, a drawing, a list, keywords, etc. Below, we will discuss some specific ways to use visual cues with children with autism.

What are some examples of sensory tools for a child with autism?

Here are some examples of sensory tools that a child with autism might utilize: 1 Weighted lap pad 2 Fidget 3 Chewy fidget 4 Body sock 5 Noise-canceling headphones 6 Wobble stool More