Julie WilliamsSpecial Education TeacherAutism Specialist for MSD

November 2010

Autism is a Spectrum Disorder that interferes with speech, learning, and social skill development. 

A developmental Disability significantly affecting a child’s social interaction and verbal and non-verbal communication, generally evident before age 3, that adversely affects learning and educational performance.

-Wisconsin Eligibility Criteria -IDEA 2004

Lack of or delay in spoken language

Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)

Little or no eye contact

Lack of interest in peer relationships

Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play

Persistent fixation on parts of objects

Resistance to change or change in daily routine

-Autism Society of America

Transitioning

Changes in routine.

Small range of interest› Level of fixation on one object or activity.

Communication

Increase predictability of the day Increase independence Decrease inappropriate behavior Decrease anxiety and frustrations Follow Rules Clear beginnings and Clear endings

Understand concrete concepts well. Think in a visual way. Recall visual images and memories

easily. Understand better when see it vs. hear

it. Understands concrete rules and

sequences. Be extremely focused if it is a desired

task.

No one is really sure and there may be a number of different causes. Many people are studying to try to find out what causes autism.

Autism must be diagnosed by a medical expert. (As stated earlier, just because you have a medical diagnosis for autism, doesn’t automatically mean you qualify for educational services.)

filling out questionaires about your child's development.

careful observation. Some professionals prefer to ask you the

questions. Some use more than one way. Some professionals will ask for complicated

medical tests in order to rule out other causes for your child's behavior.

There is no known cure, however taking action and getting treatment for your child as early as possible gives your child the best chance for a better outcome.

Here are some suggestions:› occupational therapy › behavior modification › speech and language therapy › medications if needed.

Is there a cure for Autism?

Most ASD individuals either under react or overreact to sensory stimuli(sight, sound, touch, taste, smell).

Under reactNot realizing how hot/cold something is.OverreactHumming of lights sounds like a freight

train.

Natural lighting, lamp lighting. Green is one of the most calming colors. Allow the use of headphones when music is

playing or the volume of the room is too loud. Be aware of smells in your home(cologne,

perfume, air fresheners, etc.) Have a variety of different types of seating (bean

bags, rocking chairs, balls, single leg stools, wiggle seats, pompazon chairs, etc.)

Use communication that is less direct (e.g. puppets, funny voice, microphone, video yourself giving directions)

Be clear and precise (e.g. “pick your clothes up off the floor.” Instead of “Go clean your room.”

Incorporate visual supports (e.g., sign language, written language, visual timers)

Give as many communication opportunities as possible

Teach Alternative Communication to all individuals in your home. (e.g., yes/no cards, sign language ,picture cues, writing down communication etc..)

Questions and Answers (hopefully!)

Video: The Power of Words by Judy Endow

Applied Behavior Analysts, LLC, ABA Autism Treatment Program1639 Deckner AveGreen Bay, WI 54302Telephone: 920-857-9041www.wiaba.com

Professional Family Resources, Inc., Oconto, WI

Innovative Counseling 2339 Cedar Ridge Rd, Green Bay, WI, (920) 497-6161 or toll free (866) 460-8848. Email: specialkids@itol.com  Katie Broderick Woody, Psy.D., Autism Intervention Milwaukee, LLC – (414) 256-0077

American Foundation of Counseling Services, Green Bay, WI

Autism Resources and Services, Green Bay, WI