Autism: A Brief Information Session by AutismClassroom.com

What is Autism? Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life It is a result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain It is a result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain It impacts development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills It impacts development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills (Autism Society of America)

Prevalence 1 out of out of 150 Boys affected more than girls Boys affected more than girls

Diagnostic Criteria for autism from DSM IV: A. Qualitative impairments in social interaction B. Qualitative impairments in communication C. Restricted repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests and activities

General Characteristics of Some Individuals with Autism Tend to be strong visual learners vs. auditory learners Tend to be strong visual learners vs. auditory learners Restricted interests Restricted interests Resist changes in routine Resist changes in routine Gross and fine motor skills are not even Gross and fine motor skills are not even Anxiety Anxiety

More Characteristics of Some Individuals with Autism Laughing or giggling Laughing or giggling Crying/tantrum for no apparent reason Crying/tantrum for no apparent reason Lack of interest in social interaction Lack of interest in social interaction Atypical patterns of speech Atypical patterns of speech Difficulty with pragmatics Difficulty with pragmatics Ritualistic play patterns Ritualistic play patterns Stereotyped and repetitive motor mannerisms Stereotyped and repetitive motor mannerisms Abnormal fear responses (ASA 2007) Abnormal fear responses (ASA 2007)

Supportive Ideas for the Home… 1. Use pictures 2. Smooth out your transitions 3. Try music and singing

Pictures… Use a variety of pictures to support language Logos Logos Photos Photos Icons Icons Line drawings Line drawings

Smooth out your transitions… Use a timer Use a timer Let your child carry something or “help” you Let your child carry something or “help” you Let the child hold something Let the child hold something Give your child a 1-2 minute warning every time any activity is almost finished and a visual cue Give your child a 1-2 minute warning every time any activity is almost finished and a visual cue Develop a count down system Develop a count down system Create a picture board Create a picture board 5 minutes ……………………………..Time’s Up Almost Done… 5, 4, 3, 2,1

Music and Singing… Music Music Singing Singing

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