Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Classroom

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Classroom Melissa B. Kimble Spring 2008

2. Why this topic? Through the movie Rain Man, there are many misconceptions about �autism�. Diagnosis of �autism� is on the raise in the United States. Training is needed for educators on how to teach these special children.

3. Overview #1 Background information Characteristics of children with ASD Why inclusion of children with ASD?

4. Overview #2 Educational Strategies Children with Autistic Disorder TEACCH PECS Educational Strategies Children with Asperger�s Syndrome Useful resources

5. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2007), �ASD�s are developmental disabilities that cause substantial impairments in social interaction and communication and the presence of unusual behaviors and interests (n.p.)

6. Three Common ASDs

7. Pervasive Developmental Disorder not otherwise specified (PDD NOS) have severe impairment but do not meet the criteria set for any other autistic diagnosis diagnosis usually due to the age of onset or the combination of autistic features

8. Autistic Disorder always present before 3 years of age speech and social interaction regression, usually around 18 months of age have severe impairment in speech, communication, or social interaction may be completely non-verbal and �in their own world�

9. Asperger�s Syndrome referred to as a higher-functioning milder form of autism less language difficulties problems with appropriate speech and communication development social interaction difficulties can have very high IQs, do well academically, have a superior memory, yet lack the skills to care for themselves

10. Who does if affect? According to the CDC�s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network in 2007, 1 in 150 8-year old children across the US. does not discriminate ethnically, racially or economically boys � four times more likely than girls

11. Causes, Cures and Treatments NO known cause NO known cure enzyme therapy and gluten free/casein free diets have shown positive results medications for co-occurring disorders

12. Characteristics of ASDs broad range of communication, socialization and behaviors different levels of functioning no two children alike

13. Characteristics of Children with Autistic Disorder completely non-verbal minimum verbal with echolalia lack of eye contact repetitive routines screaming violent behaviors defiant behaviors obsessed with order arm/hand flapping rocking no fear of danger climbing on top of or hiding under items refusal to stay in personal space seems to live in a fantasy world

14. (Doyle, 2003) Characteristics of Children with Asperger�s Syndrome no or few friends difficulty in group settings does not understand effect of their behavior on others appears egocentric uncaring or self-absorbed interests seem restricted and repetitive play appears scripted limited understanding of make-believe very bright, but socially inept under-sensitive to pain selective hearing difficulty with unexpected changes in environment does not respond with non-verbal cues socially interacts better with adults fine and/or gross motor difficulties talks about the same topic self-isolates very sensitive to sensory stimuli

15. Why Inclusion of Children with ASD? Individuals with Disabilities Education Act right to free appropriate public education least restrictive environment No Child Left Behind 2013-2014 all students must be �proficient� in math and reading Socialization form relationships understand the feelings of others

16. Educational Strategies for Students with ASD no child learns the same instructional methods need to be flexible information and advice available to educators who want to be successful

17. Educational Strategies - Autistic Disorder may seem to be an overwhelming unattainable endeavor lack of communication skills makes the educator�s job more difficult important to not take the child�s actions or indifferences personally

18. Educational Strategies - Autistic Disorder Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH) physical environment visual schedules teaching methods The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) six phases

19. TEACCHPhysical Environment Limit visual distractions paint in muted colors limit amount of visual clutter cover shelves of classroom materials store unneeded equipment or materials in another area use natural lighting from windows reduce fluorescent lighting place student work areas on the wall or in the corner Limit auditory distractions use more carpet have lowered ceilings turn off or mute P.A. system use acoustical tiles use headphones with electronic equipment

20. TEEACHVisual Schedules help address the child�s difficulty with sequential memory and organization of time assist children with language comprehension provide structure to lessen their anxiety and possible related behaviors help the child to maneuver throughout the day provide opportunity for social engagement add in decision making gives sense of freedom while the teacher is still in control of overall situation

21. TEEACHVisual Schedules use a �first-then� card use sectioned schedule to allow child to move items as needed i.e. �to do�, �in progress�, �finished�

22. TEEACHTeaching Methods #1 Work Stations helps students stay on task complete their work provides an incentive for completing work

23. TEEACHTeaching Methods #2 Visual instructions detailed to help student to complete a task in the proper order school work and/or life skills leads to independence

24. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) developed by Andrew Bondy and Lori Frost to help children with autism acquire functional communication skills and initiate communication Wallin (2004) informs that this system is �appropriate for individuals who do not use speech or who may speak with limited effectiveness�. six phases in the system must be taught in order student can work on two phases at a time

25. PECS � Phase IBasic Exchange first identify the wants of the child that they would be willing to make a request for use only one symbol at a time use two adults one to entice the child with object wanted one to hand the child the picture needed for exchange object is given in exchange for the picture proper correspondence is needed i.e. �Oh, you want a _______� goal: spontaneous request by using a picture symbol resist saying �What do you want?�

26. PECS � Phase IIDistance and Persistence child must be making spontaneous requests of a single adult expansion of vocabulary of symbols still only use one symbol at a time goal: make requests from further distances, different rooms and variety of people

27. PECS � Phase IIIDiscrimination Training more symbols are given to use from number can range for two to pages of symbols discriminates between symbols, makes choices about wants and about activities start off by asking �What do you want?� but fade use of phrase as student advances goal: make appropriate choices in response to questions and other stimuli

28. PECS � Phase IVSentence Building child has achieved making requests for different items, to different people, in multiple settings teach using sentence strips to make longer requests an �I want� picture in combination with another card in needed on the sentence strip in order to exchange for the item or activity goal: create sentences using pictures on a sentence strip

29. PECS � Phase VExtension of Sentence Building builds on Phase IV start adding in adjectives and other words to better describe items or activities i.e. �I want ball.� to �I want blue ball.� goal: to refine requests made by using more detailed wording of sentences

30. PECS � Phase VISpontaneous and Responsive Commenting use of pictures such as: �I see�, �I feel�, �I hear�, �I smell� goal: for student to comment on aspects of their environment

31. Educational Strategies � Asperger�s Syndrome environment schedules instructional strategies

32. Asperger�s SyndromeEnvironment needs minimal visual and auditory distractions established clear physical and visual boundaries organized classroom remove clutter use labels

33. Asperger�s SyndromeSchedules can use daily, weekly, monthly and activity allows them to know what is expected when it will happen and the order helps them stay on task important not to deviate any changes need to be made before giving to student use a �to do� list use �start�, �finish later� and/or �finish previous� to help with stopping an activity before finished

34. Asperger�s SyndromeInstructional Strategies #1 highlight most important information give the student flash cards pre-teach with a take home summary sheet use step-by-step list of instructions allow alternate modes of completing work less written output lists instead of essays use class notes from peer portable keyboarding device Audio- or videotaping to show understanding of concept

35. Asperger�s SyndromeInstructional Strategies #2 prepare students give parents outline of upcoming curriculum i.e. books, video over book send home extra set of textbooks have students read about topic to be discussed ahead of time at home

36. Asperger�s SyndromeInstructional Strategies #3 use graphic and visual organizers table with major headings outline to fill-in blanks during lecture timeline of key chronological ideas use mnemonic devices have student practice visualization of key events use rhythms or sayings Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally order of operations

37. Asperger�s SyndromeInstructional Strategies #4 increase time on task use white board to track assignments use work baskets provide non verbal cues to refocus student maximize attending during whole-class instruction give student a list of words to listen for in the lecture relate material to student�s preoccupations provide a duplicate of material being read aloud

38. Asperger�s SyndromeInstructional Strategies #5 prepare for instructional and classroom transitions provide specific beginning and ending points use picture or written schedules Melissa�s Schedule 7:30-7:45 morning work 7:45-9:30 reading 9:30-9:45 restroom break 9:45-11:00 math 11:00-11:15 restroom break 11:15-11:45 lunch 11:45-12:15 recess

39. Useful Website #1 Autism: Models and Classroom Instruction: Intervention Models: The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) http://www.emstac.org/registered/topics/autism/models/pecs.htm The website discusses the TEEACH method and PEC system. It gives useful links to more detailed websites. The page also includes provides great definitions and answers to frequently asked questions. This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members, daycare employees, community/youth leaders and anyone who has contact with a person with an ASDs.

40. Useful Website #2 Autism Spectrum Disorders Overview http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/overview.htm This website gives summarized information about ASDs. It defines the disorder, tells who if affects, explains when it is detected and the causes. This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members, daycare employees, community/youth leaders and anyone who has contact with a person with an ASDs.

41. Useful Website #3 Inclusion of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders http://www.newhorizons.org/spneeds/autism/daily.htm The author gives an abbreviated history, then proceeds to explain the propose of inclusion. This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members, daycare employees, community/youth leaders and anyone who has contact with a person with an ASDs.

42. Useful Website #4 Red Flags for Classroom Teachers: Identifying Students Who May Have Features of an Autism Spectrum Disorder http://www.newhorizons.org/spneeds/autism/doyle_identifying.htm This website offers characteristics to look for in students. It reiterates the importance of an early diagnosis. Although an educator should never try to diagnosis or label a child, it is still important to be proactive in getting children the help they need. This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members, daycare employees, community/youth leaders and anyone who has contact with a person with an ASDs.

43. Useful Website #5 Teaching Children with Autism: Visual Support: PECs http://www.polyxo.com/visualsupport/pecs.html This website gives detailed information about the phases in the PEC system. This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members, daycare employees, community/youth leaders and anyone who has contact with a person with an ASDs.

44. Useful Website #6 Structured Teaching: Strategies for Supporting Students with Autism? http://www.specialed.us/autism/structure/str10.htm This website defines structured teaching. It also explains each component in great detail and gives wonderful examples. This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members and daycare employees.

45. Additional Websites http://www.unc.edu/~denson/6/autism.html http://www.wcs.edu/bhs/parents/autism_newsletter.pdf http://www.cec.sped.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&Template=/templates/CECHomePage.cfm http://www.autismeducation.net/index.htm http://www.teacch.com/

46. Useful Print Resources #1 Asperger Syndrome and Six Strategies for Success Linn, A., & Myles, B. This article defines Asperger�s Syndrome and provides six strategies to help address the student�s needs. SODA (Stop, Observe, Deliberate, Act) This information can be beneficial to educators, parents, extended family members, daycare employees, youth leaders and anyone who has contact with a person with an ASDs.

47. Useful Print Resources #2 Instructional Management Tips for Teachers of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Marks, Susan U., Shaw-Hegwer, Jennifer, Schrader, Carl, Longaker, Tricia, Peters, Iris, Powers, Fran, Levine, Mark This article outlines some instructional management techniques for general education teachers of children with ASD (mainly Asperger�s). It provides detailed descriptions and applicable ideas. Although others may benefit from reading, this article is best suited for educators.

48. Useful Print Resources #3 Provide Structure for Children With Learning and Behavior Problems Swanson, Terri C. This article provides some great examples of how to use the environment, schedules, activities, routines and choices to help children with ASD be successful. Although others may benefit from reading, this article is best suited for educators.

49. Conclusion Children with ASDs have� a broad range of characteristics and levels of functioning the right to an appropriate public education the ability to be successful with the correct support

50. References #1 Autism: Models and Classroom Instruction: Intervention Models: The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). EMSTAC. Retrieved February 20, 2008 from http://www.emstac.org/registered/topics/autism/models/pecs.htm Autism Spectrum Disorders Overview. (2007, February 9). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 23, 2008 from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/overview.htm Daily, Melissa. (2005). Inclusion of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. New Horizons for Learning. Retrieved February 20, 2008 from http://www.newhorizons.org/spneeds/autism/daily.htm

51. References #2 Doyle, Barbara T. (2003). Red Flags for Classroom Teachers: Identifying Students Who May Have Features of an Autism Spectrum Disorder. New Horizons for Learning. Retrieved February 20, 2008 from http://www.newhorizons.org/spneeds/autism/doyle_identifying.htm Grossmann, M.D., Rami. (2008). PDD/Autism: A Clear Practical Approach for the Parents. Childbrain. Retrieved February 20, 2008 from http://www.childbrain.com/pdd.shtml Linn, A., & Myles, B. (2004, Fall). Asperger Syndrome and Six Strategies for Success. Beyond Behavior. Retrieved February 19, 2008, from Education Research Complete Database.

52. References #3 Marks, Susan U., Shaw-Hegwer, Jennifer, Schrader, Carl, Longaker, Tricia, Peters, Iris, Powers, Fran, Levine, Mark. (2003, March/April). Instructional Management Tips for Teachers of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). TEACHING Exceptional Children. 35(4), 50-54. Retrieved February 17, 2008, from Education Research Complete datebase. Swanson, Terri C. (2005, January). Provide Structure for Children With Learning and Behavior Problems. Intervention in School & Clinic. (40)3, 182-187. Retrieved February 19, 2008, from Education Research Complete database. Wallin, Jason M. (2004). Teaching Children with Autism: Visual Support: PECs. Retrieved February 24, 2008, from http://www.polyxo.com/visualsupport/pecs.html

53. References #4 Written by Susan Stokes under contract with CESA 7 and funded by a discretionary grant from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. (n.d.) Structured Teaching: Strategies for Supporting Students with Autism? CESA #7. Retrieved February 24, 2008 from http://www.specialed.us/autism/structure/str10.htm