Autism Spectrum Disorder How can we make our classrooms more inclusive to accommodate autistic learners? …These ideas are all great for non-autistic students and kids with other learning differences, as well!

1. Using a variety of Schedules:

If possible, individualized schedules for each student can be very helpful. Note that each student has a shape and color associated with his or her name to make this schedule more accessible.

2. Having an effective class Space -Organizing spaces helps students to structure their day. Students will know where certain behaviours are appropriate(left) -IEP tubs are a great idea for organizing materials to help meet learning goals. (right)

Independent work stations with rules and organized boxes give students the opportunity to focus. Laminated construction paper pads can teach personal space Chill-out zones can help kids to decompress

3. Creating a Data collection system “A data collection system should be in place to measure each student’s IEP (Individualized Education Plan) objectives. IEP objectives will need to be measured using effective data collection methods. Data collection sheets should be ready for the start of school.” (template sheets available on website)

4. Having team meetings It is important to meet with your team members concerning the needs and issues of your students. Your staff team should ideally have weekly debriefing sessions before or after school. Suggested topics during this session are discussion of students, review and revising communication strategies, teaching strategies, behavior interventions, scheduling and classroom roles and responsibilities. Input from all staff members should be encouraged to help create a successful learning environment for staff as well as for students

5. Clarifying team responsibilities Work closely with EAs, administration, other teachers and other staff members. Clarify responsibilities, schedules and action plans in order to effectively collaborate with staff. Clarify responsibilities for students in the class (you can use graphic organizers)

6. Using effective prompting strategies -visual prompts help to remind students of appropriate behaviour

7. Using Language-based techniques and Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) These techniques and strategies must be embedded in all activities throughout the child’s day. AAC methods can include picture symbol task analysis, picture exchange, natural aided language techniques, visual cues for behaviors, picture symbols, photographs, written words (if the child is reading), etc. Traffic lights or check-in strategies

AAC games: These communication cups can help teachers to quickly scan the class to see who has been pulled or has left the room.

8. Developing a behaviour plan -A functional behaviour analysis can be done in order to devise a behaviour action plan. This can help classroom staff to respond quickly and effectively to outbursts.

9. Addressing sensory needs Sensory bins aid in with sensory play, which is shown to help cognitive development, fine motor skills, creativity, social interaction and problem solving. Foam inserts for the floor help to reduce noise and distraction

Refer to your behaviour plan!! Dealing with Sensory Overload: Refer to your behaviour plan!! If there is a quiet room attached to your classroom, USE IT! Create a safe place that is separate from the rest of the room, if possible. Provide headphones or ear-covers for focus and to prevent sensory overload. Keep seating plans in mind that are based on individual needs. Find out what is comforting to your autistic students. Conversely, find out about triggers. Get your non-autistic students on board with classroom guidelines that help reduce triggers for your autistic students. Have a safe place or safe people in the school that are outside the classroom.

Resources How to teach positive social skills (Activities) How to set up a classroom for students with autism (book) Website (with links to other resources) Pinterest Boards focused on autisum ideas http://www.autismsocietycvi.ca http://www.viha.ca/cyf_rehab/assessment/vican/ http://www.autismsocietycanada.ca/index.php http://www.cvcda.ca/programTAP.html GREAT video on autism from BBC Visual Supports (good for all students) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time