Aug 09
3
Define Autism
What is the best way to organize a classroom to benefit students with autism spectrum disorders?
I moved in a new classroom and new job description next year. I will be teaching four students with autism spectrum disorders in a mobile unit. I am aware that the class should be structured with a defined space for each activity, but have not seen any concrete examples. Someone Can give me some good ideas or examples? Thank you! Wow I had so many great already. 
I should add that this class will have two assistants (for total of three members of staff). The students are aged 14-20.
space is defined not as important as other issues. Each child will need to have a clearly defined strategy, personal workspace. Most configurations of the most successful that I saw a desk with a set of plastic drawers next three or four of them. The top drawer contains things like a calendar picture of the day and working files. The next drawer holds supplies Childs .. pencils, crayons, etc. (Although you can have part of both children at the beginning, it is generally useful if they each have their own). The third drawer is the perfect personal. Students can do things such as articles STIM, rewards or personal items such as books or magazines they want to read. The fourth drawer (if any) held things as math manipulatives and special items that students may need particular. Offices should be sufficiently remote that the students can not eaily reach each other and leave space for the teacher or aid to sit next to them for help if needed. The room must also have a clearly defined "group" area … a large table that allows you to sit in the center is perfect. This is the place work with all children or children having to work with you on an individual basis. They know that to be at this table means the working time. Finally, you need a clearly defined area calm. This could be hidden in a corner with pillows and things like books or small toys plush. It is a place for kids to go when they need to defuse a bit. The warning that I give in the design of this site is to ensure any libraries you can use as "walls" are firmly fixed on the wall without anything on top that can cause problems. That's it Just because you have children there and upset for many children with autism which may mean throw or try to overthrow the furniture. much more important than physical arrangement willl be how you structure and schedule of the day. One of the first things to do each day is the calendar. This should be large, with three columns "DO" right now "and" complete. "Each element must be established with a word and symbol image magine / activity. At the beginning of the day go to the calendar of the whole. When you start the next task, move map image to the center column. When you have completed the task, move it to the third column. Each child must have a similar, smaller version of Annex to his office. As you move the cards, then they should. Over time, you may find that you have students who successfully well and do not need this complex system. At this point, you can offer them a daily schedule and the tasks to verify that their arrival. A large clock is also important. Children with autism need to alert the transition from one thing to the next, particularly in new settings. Check child's IEP and behavior of each plan to see what they are required to have and go from there. I hope that assistance. There are many books and websites out there that can provide more information. Also, check with the school psychologist or a specialist behavioral suggestions for each child. Good luck and have fun .. these children may be a Challange but lots of fun and joy too.
Autism does not define her
