Autism and Back to School Planning
Classroom Tips and Lessons in Preparation for the Autistic Child
Jul 21, 2009
Children with autism do not like changes in routine. When a new school year is about to begin, all children become anxious about the unexpected, but for kids on the autism spectrum, those nervous feelings are hugely magnified. Teachers can help these students with careful classroom organization and lesson planning that takes into consideration the requirements of the student with special needs.
Setting Up a Welcoming Classroom
Students with autism will appreciate a classroom that is well organized, structured, and has classroom rules clearly posted. Children with autism often need guidance organizing their world, so a chaotic classroom environment will cause extreme duress. Arrange desks into small workgroups of four or less, and place the child with autism next to a friend. Speak with the parents ahead of time to determine whom their child is most comfortable with.
There are many other ways to create an effective classroom design for a child with special needs such as autism. Include multi-sensory, focused workstations in the design. Keep white space to a maximum to eliminate confusing clutter. Make sure that supply drawers and cabinets are labeled accurately. Set up a quiet space for times when the child with autism needs a break from others or needs to calm down.
Finally, if time allows and all parties agree, invite the family and child with autism to tour the classroom a day or two before school begins.
Inclusive Lesson Plans That Accommodate Student with Autism
Each unit of learning in a classroom that includes a child with autism should present material in multiple ways that will appeal to all the senses. For example, use laptops or computers to present reading materials, show a movie or video that is related to a science lesson, and play board games to teach addition or other math skills.
When a lesson calls for group work, make sure that the student with autism is paired with another student who is generally helpful and kind. Children with autism tend to have difficulty with social situations and need help improving social skills. As much as possible, encourage the child to interact socially and set up situations in which the child can experience social success.
The curricula for the school year should not include excessive free time. Free time in the classroom is an invitation for chaos. If well planned, a completely structured environment can encourage imagination and exploration. Additionally, weekly schedules should be drafted so that students will know what to expect for each day. Use plenty of visuals on the schedule, especially if the child with autism struggles with reading and language skills.
Structured Curriculum and Planned Surprises
All classrooms will experience their share of surprises, but keeping these to a minimum will benefit the teacher and autistic student. A sudden change in schedule can be one reason why a student with autism may become agitated and ultimately experience meltdowns. Most changes in routine can be prepared for. School assemblies, field trips, practice fire alarms, and special projects that are not commonplace can be announced in advance.
It may be worth giving parents of the student with autism a call to let them know of schedule changes. Parents can be instrumental in helping to prepare their autistic child for unexpected events that may otherwise be very stressful.
The start of a new school year can be an exciting time for students and teachers. The stress of transitioning from a relaxed summer schedule to the rigors of school can be overwhelming for children with autism. These feelings may be reduced when teachers carefully organize their classrooms and structure lessons to meet the student’s special needs.
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