Disengaged in lessons

Not able to follow instructions

Difficulty with speaking or listening

Behavior problems

Not reaching milestone or academic goals of children of a similar age

Impulsive

One common non-invasive intervention to improve the auditory environments for individuals with ASD are noise-attenuating headphones, which block sound transmission to the ears

Florescent lighting, the most common lighting used in classrooms, can impact learning, behavior, and the comfort level of students with autism.

Box of objects for stimming

Example auditory or visual changes

Set up rules that can be implemented at home and in the classroom.

When involving the parents, be gentle with approach.

Become a team! There should be constant check-ins to note the progression of the student.

Adaptive materials

Instructional scaffolding

“Teachers, school counselors or parents can refer the student to the Student Assistance Team. This team consists of the school counselor, school psychologist, two teachers, parent , student and administrator. The student’s grades and progress in class are reviewed as well as standardized testing. After reviewing data, short term interventions are created and applied and the school psychologist usually observes the student in a few classes. If the interventions fail and/or the psychologist’s results warrant it the student is then tested for special education services.” - Tricy Nero

Show the parents processes they can use at home easily such as visual diaries and positive language.

Be patient

Stay consistent with a routine for a 2-3 months to see if there are any changes. If nothing changes, try another method.

If the student isn't improving and your school has access to an individualized education program or behaviorial therapist, take advantage of that.

Nero, Tricy (2020 October) Learning Difficulties Interview