Autism: A Brief Information Session by AutismClassroom'com

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Autism A Brief Information Sessionby
AutismClassroom.com
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What is 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)

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Prevalence

• 1 out of 150
• Boys affected more than girls

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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

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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

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More Characteristics of Some Individuals with
Autism

• 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)

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Supportive Ideas for the Home

• Use pictures
• Smooth out your transitions
• Try music and singing

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Pictures

• Use a variety of pictures to support language
• Logos
• Photos
• Icons
• Line drawings

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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 ..Times Up
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Music and Singing

• Music
• Singing

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The END

• For more information go to www.autismclassroom.com