Maggie Collier Arkansas State University Autism Awareness Maggie Collier Arkansas State University

What is Autism? Developmental disorder Broad range of conditions defined by the Autism Spectrum Disorder Challenges with social skills, communication, and repetitive behaviors Accompanied by unique strengths and differences No true definition as there are many types

Autism Spectrum

Types of Autism Autistic Disorder Asperger Syndrome “Classic Autism” Description Significant language delays Social and communication challenges Unusual behaviors and interests Other Intellectual disability Examples Not respond to name Delayed speech Avoid eye contact Asperger Syndrome Milder symptoms of Autism Description: Social Challenges Unusual Behaviors and Interests No language or intellectual disability Pervasive Developmental Disorder “Atypical Autism” Meet some Asperger and Autistic conditions, but there are fewer and milder

Signs, Symptoms, and Behaviors No response to his or her own name Little to no response when spoken to at all Not play “pretend” games Very literal Avoid eye and skin contact Delayed speech or other language skills Engage in repetitive behaviors Obsessive interests Flapping Unusual reactions to certain senses

Causes and Prevalence Prevalence- Causes- Affects 1 in 68 children Five times more likely in boys Causes- No true cause of Autism Mutated genes Caused by old age of parents If a close relative is Autistic Drug use during pregnancy including thalidomide and valproic acid Other medical conditions Some vaccines or infections

Treatments Early Intervention is best Address child’s difficulties, while embracing their strengths Parent education and training Social skills training Speech-language therapy Cognitive behavior therapy Applied behavioral analysis Sensory integration/occupational therapy Medication

Autism is a very complex disorder. It is important to remember that each child is different, responds differently, and has different struggles. Autism is a very complex disorder.

Autistic Children in the Classroom Autistic children need an IEP Most mildly Autistic children belong in the general education classroom

Tips for Teachers Use simple, clear, and concise language Teach specific social rules and skills Give fewer choices Ask the child to repeat what you just said Avoid sarcasm and idioms Repeat instructions Provide a routine Carefully consider seating assignments Be aware of sensory concerns Provide breaks Use the buddy system with caution Practice appropriate interactions Use guided notes and organizers

Teaching Autistic Children

Tips for Parents Become an expert on all things Autism and your child Be loving and accepting Be involved Don’t give up Provide structure and safety Learn about your resources and seek assistance

Works Cited Page Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Autism Speaks. Retrieved October 30, 2017, from http://faq.autismspeaks.org/info/faq/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIyJvLvL-b1wIVBIFpCh3vFQFCEAAYASAAEgIYxPD_BwE#1 Autism Support of West Shore. (2014). What is Autism? Retrieved October 30, 2017, from https://www.asws.org/WhatisAutism.aspx Autism Speaks. (2012, July 24). Interventions and Treatment Options. Retrieved October 30, 2017, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/tool-kits/asperger-syndrome-and-high-functioning-autism-tool- kit/interventions-and-t Hensley, P. (n.d.). 22 Tips for Teaching Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Retrieved October 30, 2017, from http://teaching.monster.com/benefits/articles/8761-22-tips-for-teaching-students-with-autism-spectrum-disorders Hensley, P. (n.d.). Teaching Children With Autism in the Classroom. Retrieved October 30, 2017, from http://teaching.monster.com/benefits/articles/10265-children-with-autism-in-the-classroom Smarter Parenting. (n.d.). Issue Specific Lessons. Retrieved October 30, 2017, from http://www.smarterparenting.com/specific- lesson/view/autism-spectrum-disorder?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuYrVs8yb1wIVBw5pCh0MxAPrEAAYASAAEgIFw_D_BwE Smith, M., M.A., Segal, J., Ph.D., & Hutman, T., Ph.D. (2017, October). Helping Your Child with Autism Thrive. Retrieved October 30, 2017, from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/autism-learning-disabilities/helping-your-child-with-autism-thrive.htm