Melissa Repking

Definition of Autism A developmental disability that significantly affects social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication.

Facts about Autism It is usually evident before the age of 3 Has an adverse affect on educational performance Children with autism are extremely withdrawn Severe difficulties with language that they might be entirely mute

Continue of Facts They often engage in self-stimulation activities Examples: rocking, twirling objects, or flapping their hands They might have normal or outstanding abilities in certain areas In 1990, autism became a formal category of disability

Continue of facts The term autism spectrum disorder is now being used to describe a broad range of severity- mild to severe More prevalent among boys than girls Caused by brain damage or other brain dysfunction

Characteristics of Autism A delay in learning to talk, or not talking at all Resistance to change No real fear of danger Repeating words or phrases

Characteristics of Autism Prefers to be alone Obsessive attachment to objects Tantrums Unable to initiate or engage in conversations

Characteristics of autism Difficulty expressing their needs Apparent insensitivity to pain Not wanting to cuddle

Accommodations Clearly established routines Warnings and preparation when changes are anticipated Assignments with simple directions Smaller tasks

Accommodations Visual schedules Graphic organizers Repetition of activities or lessons Incorporate their strengths in the lesson

Accommodations Visual or written instructions Visual cues to modify transitions