The stigma surrounding autism has been changing as more people are becoming aware of the condition and its uniqueness. Many children who are on the spectrum have trouble keeping up and focusing in class, as they have different learning styles and require additional attention.
The number of students with autism has been growing throughout the years, making it essential for teachers to incorporate unique teaching strategies into their lessons.
All children have distinctive learning needs, but when teaching children with Autism Spectrum Disorder they require a little more guidance and support.
By understanding how students with autism feel and why they act hyperactive or anxious, we’re able to provide them with the right tools needed to succeed.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complicated and lifelong condition that causes significant challenges in social interaction, communication, and behaviour.
This developmental condition is defined by a certain set of behaviours that affect people in varying degrees. These characteristics are placed on a spectrum, upon which a person is diagnosed.
ASD varies for each person, some having minor difficulties while others require full-time care. Individuals with autism have different sets of strengths and weaknesses, making each case unique.
While there is no determined cause of ASD, a diagnosis can be made during early childhood, which can help the person receive the support they need to lead a successful life.
Helping Students with ASD Thrive in the Classroom
Having a deep understanding of the strategies and social skills needed to help students with ASD is incredibly important in allowing all students to succeed academically.
Ordinary things such as fluorescent lights, smells, and the sound of other children can be distracting to students with ASD, making it difficult for them to stay focused on the task at hand.
Teachers can reduce the sensory overload by using calm, cool colours to decorate their classroom and avoid covering the walls with too many posters.
Having visuals in the classroom that indicate where things go, what resources are available, and what the classroom rules are can greatly benefit all students, whether they have autism or not.
There is a great deal of anxiety in having a continuously changing routine for autistic children. Having predictability in the classroom or providing a set schedule will help ease any worry or curiosity that keeps students distracted from doing their work. Teachers could also demonstrate how to act when changes occur.
Professional Autism Tutoring in Ottawa
Given the chance, children with autism will thrive in a learning environment that is properly adjusted to their social, emotional, and learning needs.
Not all classrooms and educators can cater to ASD children, which is where autism tutoring comes in handy. Extra support outside of the classroom can greatly benefit autistic children by teaching them skills in concentration, encouraging social interaction, and helping them improve their grades.
The learning centre at Mind Over Learning has been specially designed around the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, making it the ideal environment for learning.
Our tutors have the training and experience needed for teaching children with autism and encouraging them to learn by using multi-sensory channels.
Reach out to us today to learn more about autism tutoring and help your child find confidence in their journey to learning.