Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC)

Autism is a 'spectrum condition' that affects social interaction, behaviour and communication. No two diagnosis are the same.

Young people with ASC can find it hard to understand other people's emotions and feelings, and have difficulty starting conversations or taking part in them properly. Language development may be delayed, and a young person with ASC won’t compensate their lack of language or delayed language skills by using gestures (body language) or facial expressions. Some children with ASC like to stick to the same routine, which means they need time and support to adjust to changes.

ASC can affect a young person's sensory sensitivity to touch, taste, sound, and sight - senses can be heightened and dampened (hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity). This can also affect wider gross and fine motor skills.

SPELL - an approach to Learning and Teaching

Structure

Positive (approaches and reinforcement)

Empathy

Low (arousal)

Links (to the familiar, wider world, and their support network)

TEACCH - approaching Professional and Personal Development

Teach - share knowledge and skills with others

Expand - increase your own knowledge of an individual's needs and how the condition affects them

Appreciate - utilise their unique skills and interests

Collaborate & Cooperate - work with others to 'get it right'

Holistic - consider development of the whole young person

St Machar Academy's 'Transitions Group' / programme is designed to support young people with ASC, be it tendencies or a formal diagnosis. Keep up-to-date with the group's work by following them on twitter @TransitionsStm1.

Please speak with your child's Guidance Teacher if you would like more information about this service.

What works?

Further advice about ASC, provided by Aberdeen City's Autism Outreach service, can be found here.