Autism: A Brief Information Session by AutismClassroom.com

1. Autism: A Brief Information Sessionby AutismClassroom.com

2. Whatis Autism? • 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 impacts development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills (Autism Society of America)

4. Prevalence • 1 out of 150 • Boys affected more than girls

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

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

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

8. Supportive Ideas for the Home… • Use pictures • Smooth out your transitions • Try music and singing

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

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

11. Music Singing Music and Singing…

12. The END For more information go to www.autismclassroom.com