Autism and Autistic Behavior

In children younger than 3 years, interventions that are appropriate usually take place in a child care center or in the home.

Specific deficits in learning, language, imitation, attention, motivation, compliance, and initiative of interaction are targeted by these interventions. Included are behavioral methods, communication, occupational and physical therapy along with social play interventions.

The day will often begin with a physical activity like children string beads, piece puzzles together, paint, and participate in other motor skills activities: to help develop coordination and body awareness. At snack time the teacher encourages social interaction and models how to use language to ask for more juice.

Read more about Adult Aspergers Syndrome?at Autism Developmental Disorders

The children learn by doing. Students, behavioral therapists, and parents who have received extensive training are working with the children. Positive reinforcement is used in teaching the children. Children older than 3 years usually have school-based, individualized, special education.

The child may be in a segregated class with other autistic children or in an integrated class with children without disabilities for at least part of the day.

Different localities may use differing practices but all should provide a structure that will aid the children with learning social skills and functional communication. In these programs, teachers often involve the parents, giving useful advice in how to help their child use the skills or behaviors learned at school when they are at home.

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In elementary school, the child should receive help in any skill area that is delayed and, at the same time, be encouraged to grow in his or her strengths. Ideally, the curriculum should be adapted to the individual child’s needs. Today a lot of schoola have an inclusion program in which the child is in a regular classroom for most of the day, with special instruction for a part of the day.

This instruction should include such skills as learning how to act in social situations and in making friends.

Read more about Aspergers Characteristics at Aspergers Characteristics

Higher-functioning children too need help to organize tasks and avoid distractions although they may be able to handle academic work.

During middle and high school years, instruction will begin to address such practical matters as work, community living, and recreational activities. Work experience, using public transportation, and learning skills that will be important in community living should be included in this. You will want to be an active participant in his or her education program, all through your child’s school years,. Collaboration between parents and educators is essential in evaluating your child’s progress.

Summary:
There is no single best treatment for all children with ASD. Early intervention is important, and most individuals with ASD respond well to highly structured, specialized programs. Each step in the child’s education building on what he or she has learned before, beginning with communication and social skills, working through strengths and abilities, and progressing to practical matters such as work and community living. Adolescence may be an especially difficult time for teenagers with autism.
So always be sure to give your fullest attention to this important aspect of your child’s life.