Most people would agree that a well-run
classroom requires structure and proper management to operate smoothly.
Sounds good in theory, doesn't it? You have learned from other lesson
modules that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) prefer a
structured routine with few surprises. A highly structured classroom
would seem to be the perfect fit for the child with ASD, right? Not
necessarily!
A classroom routine can be so predictable that "everyone" in
the building knows the schedule for that class - everyone except for
the child with autism in the class! What can be done to help facilitate
understanding for the child with ASD? The use of visual tools, such
as visual schedules, people
locators, labels, social
stories, and reminder
cards, are all necessary for the child with ASD to navigate through
the school day with as little stress as possible. Using visual tools
helps the child process and understand the "what, when, where,
and why" of their day. By providing visual tools for the child
with ASD, you can eliminate a lot of the challenging behaviors associated
with ASD.
