Since its designation by the United Nations on April 2, 2007, World Autism Awareness Day has helped foster a greater understanding of people with autism, highlighting their achievements, contributions, and unique perspectives. 

World Autism Month, initiated by the American nonprofit organization Autism Speaks and observed throughout April, shares similar aims. Both observances provide an opportunity to discuss factors educators should consider to help ensure the success of autistic students inside the classroom and beyond. 

Key Considerations for Your Autistic Students 

Be Aware of Sensory Issues 

Autistic students can become overwhelmed by experiences involving any of the senses. While it may not be possible to completely adapt a learning environment to an autistic student, especially in a mainstream school, it’s important to consider sensory issues when arranging your classroom. 

Make your classroom autism-friendly by using only the amount of light needed, leaving adequate room between desks, and minimizing intrusive sounds and odors. If an art, chemistry, or shop class is next door, seat an autistic student as far away from the source of the potential sensory issue as possible. 

Use Visual Aids 

Autistic students typically learn best when provided with concrete examples. They’re more likely to comprehend and retain what you teach them when you supplement your lessons with visual aids such as photographs, diagrams, charts, icons, or symbols. 

Keep Instructions Simple  

Figurative language can be confusing for autistic students. Always use the most direct, clear, and literal language you can when speaking to them. “Please return from the restroom quickly” is preferable to “Please return from the restroom as fast as lightning.” 

Maintain Classroom Routines 

Most students function best with a consistent daily structure, and autistic students are no exception. Keep predictable routines, scheduling similar activities such as quizzes or in-class assignments at regular intervals. Help reduce anxiety among these students by setting their expectations with a visual schedule. Whenever feasible, alert autistic students to changes ahead of time. 

Focus on Positive Reinforcement and Language 

People with autism are prone to experiencing social anxiety and therefore often need a little extra encouragement. You can reduce their stress, boost their confidence, and motivate them to participate in class by providing positive words after they successfully answer a question or complete an assignment. With preschool-age children, reward systems may be appropriate. 

Also consider alternatives to the word “no.” Instead of telling a student what they should not do, tell them what they should do: “No, don’t get out of your seat” becomes “Please stay in your seat.” 

Personalize Your Teaching 

Autism is a spectrum, not a specific set of traits. Get to know the needs and learning styles of your autistic students and use that knowledge to adapt your teaching to them. Differentiated instruction strategies are crucial to autistic students’ success. 

Model Social Skills 

An important part of the school experience for all students is socialization and the development of social skills. As leader of the class, it’s your responsibility to model and explain social skills such as making eye contact, sharing, taking turns, and following and responding to social cues. You may also teach these skills using applicable books. 

Equip Yourself to Elevate Special Education Students  

Excel in teaching autistic and other special education students from day one. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s CAEP-accredited online graduate degree programs help prepare you. No matter which special education program you choose, you can: 

  • Receive a TEACH Grant of up to $4,000, pending eligibility. 
  • Apply with no GRE requirement. 

Choose from two rewarding degree tracks or a general program that offers you even broader career flexibility: 

Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders Track  

  • Gain hands-on workplace experience in a practicum course. 
  • Graduate in as little as one year. 

Online Master of Arts in Special Education, Educational Diagnostician Track  

  • Gain hands-on workplace experience in a practicum course. 
  • Secure eligibility for Texas Educational Diagnostician Certification. 
  • Graduate in as little as two years. 

Online Master of Arts in Special Education 

  • Graduate in as little as one year. 

Empower your autistic students to shine! Apply here. 

Sources: 
https://www.teachforamerica.org/stories/tips-teaching-autism-students
https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit-excerpt/autism-classroom-strategies
https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit-excerpt/autism-and-social-skills-development
https://researchautism.org/blog/5-practical-tips-for-teaching-students-with-autism/
https://www.incredibleyears.com/blog/autism-in-the-inclusive-classroom
https://www.autismeducates.com/2012/06/15/what-to-say-instead-of-no/