Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning that symptoms and behaviours can range from mild to severe. Autistic people can have difficulty with verbal and non–verbal communication, social interactions, and repetitive behaviours or interests. They may also have sensory sensitivities or differences. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1 in 100 children has autism worldwide. Special education methods for autistic children are designed to address these challenges and help them learn and succeed in school and beyond. This article explores some of the most effective and commonly used special education methods for people with autism. 

Early intervention

Early intervention is crucial for  autistic children. The earlier they receive support and intervention, the better their outcomes are likely to be. Early intervention can help improve communication, social interaction, and behaviour. It involves therapies such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioural therapy.

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) 

ABA is a therapy that uses positive reinforcement to teach new skills and behaviours. It is based on the principle that behaviour can be modified through a system of rewards and consequences. ABA applies the science of learning to support development of new skills, be they communication, social interaction or behavioural. It typically involves breaking down a skill or behaviour into smaller, more manageable steps and providing reinforcement for each step completed successfully. ABA therapy can be provided in a one-on-one setting or to a group.

Visual Strategies

To support Expressive Communication:

The Picture Exchange Communication System® (PECS) is a commonly used, evidence based, visual support system that uses pictures to help learners express themselves. It also develops skills to comment on the environment and to name and describe things that are important to them. PECS can be used as an alternative or supplement to verbal communication.

Learners of any age or ability are taught through the application of the protocol, firstly, how to communicate, by exchanging a single picture that corresponds to something that they would like, to being able to select a picture from a wide range of pictures and give it to a communication partner in exchange for the desired item or activity. PECS can be used as an Augmentative or Alternative Communication (AAC) device in ALL settings, including the classroom, home, and community. Learners are encouraged to use the pictures as their voice, wherever and with whomever they wish to communicate. Initially, low-tech communication books are used and learners can progress to high-tech apps on mobile devices, such as Speech Generating Devices. Everything you need to know about starting out with PECS can be found in this short video. 

To support Receptive Communication:

Visual support systems can be used to teach other critical communication skills such as following visual or vocal instructions, transitioning between locations, and more effectively staying on task and completing functional activities. These strategies can be tailored to the individual needs of the student and may include pictures, symbols, or written words. 

Social Stories

Social stories are stories that are designed to teach social skills and appropriate behaviour. They typically describe a social situation and provide step-by-step guidance on how to navigate the occasion. Social stories can be used to teach a variety of skills, such as how to greet someone, how to share, and how to handle frustration. They can be customized to the individual needs of the learner and can be created by parents, teachers, or other professionals. 

Sensory Integration Therapy

This is designed to help autistic children regulate their sensory experiences. This includes activities such as swinging, spinning, or playing with tactile materials. The goal of sensory integration therapy is to help learners regulate their responses to sensory input and improve their ability to participate in daily activities. Sensory integration therapy can be provided in a variety of settings, including the classroom, home, and therapy centre. 

Social Skills Training

Autistic children often struggle with social skills. Social skills support can help people to learn more appropriate social behaviour. It can include teaching learners how to initiate and maintain conversations, how to interpret nonverbal communication and how to understand social rules. Additionally, social skills training can also involve teaching learners how to make friends and interact with peers. Peer-mediated interventions can be particularly effective in teaching social skills. Peer-mediated interventions involve training typically developing peers to interact with autistic people.. 

Structured Teaching

Structured Teaching involves breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach can help learners with autism understand expectations and complete tasks successfully. It can also help learners develop organizational skills and manage their time effectively. Structured teaching can be used in a variety of settings, including the classroom, home, and community. 

Special Education Settings

Autistic children can benefit from specialised education settings to help them develop essential skills. Special education settings can include bespoke classrooms or resource bases. Special education methods are designed to support their unique needs and help them achieve their full potential. These methods are often individualised to meet the specific needs of each autistic student and involve a team of professionals, including special education teachers, behaviour therapists, and speech and language therapists. 

Based on article by ©Geeky Nigeria 

Edited by © Pyramid Educational Consultants