ASD High and Low Functioning

Ideas for teachers:

• PRE WARN the student of any change in routine as this will help them understand what is going to happen next. Any surprise can trigger negative behaviours and additional stress

• USE STRUCTURE, ASD students like linear organised, familar, and structured routines and classes

• Do not use idioms or generalisations as they take them literally

• ASD students can operate between extreme behaviours

• Give short precise/one instruction at a time 

• Use their special interest to help motivate and reward them

• ASD students usually like facts, figures and patterns

• Allow for alone time as they often become over stressed when in a busy environment.

• Tell the student WHAT TO DO not what NOT to do.

• Social skills will probably need to be taught

Specific Strategies.

1. Use a Classroom Manager to show what you are planning for the lesson. This will help them know what is happening next and de-stress them.

2. Use de-stress sensory tools such as Koosh ball, art booklets, slinky's, timers, chewy objectsetc. 

3. Use a settling down activity for 5-8 minutes at the start of each lesson i.e. drawing/reading/crossword

4. Explain 'next steps' precises and concisely

5. Use visual prompt to reinforce learning or instructions e,g calendars/cards/

6. Use manageable checklists (this gives positive affirmation once completed, decreasing stress)

7. Make sure homework is written down (and understood)

8. Communicate with family as their poor communication skills may mean information is not shared effectively.

9. Use timetables,diagrams and organisational structures

10. Use ASD Timer clocks

11. Use colour cards sets to enable the student to ask for help non verbally i.e. Green (I am all good), Yellow (I need help), Red (I need help NOW)

12. Avoid direct confrontation and encourage mutual trust

13. Use a seating plan so the student  will not get distracted by events or people