Autism: A Brief

Information Session
by AutismClassroom.com
 What is Autism?
 Autism is a complex developmental
disability that typically appears during
the first three years of life
 It is a result of a neurological disorder
that affects the normal functioning of
the brain
 It impacts development in the areas of
social interaction and communication
skills
(Autism Society of America)
 Pervasive
Developmental
Disorders

Pervasive
Childhood Developmental
Asperger’s Rett’s Disintegrative Disorder
Autism Syndrome Syndrome Disorder (CDD) Not
Otherwise
Specified
 Prevalence
 1 out of 150

 Boys affected more than girls

 Diagnostic Criteria for
autism from DSM IV:
A. Qualitative impairments in social
interaction
B. Qualitative impairments in
communication
C. Restricted repetitive and
stereotyped patterns of
behavior, interests and activities
 General Characteristics of
Some Individuals with Autism
 Tend to be strong visual
learners vs. auditory
learners Visual
Learners

 Restricted interests
Resists
Anxiety changes
 Resist changes in routine in routines

GENERAL

 Gross and fine motor

skills are not even
Restricted
Uneven skills
Interests

 Anxiety
 More Characteristics of Some
Individuals with Autism
 Laughing or giggling  Difficulty with
 Crying/tantrum for no pragmatics
apparent reason
 Ritualistic play patterns
 Lack of interest in
 Stereotyped and
repetitive motor
social interaction mannerisms
 Atypical patterns of  Abnormal fear
speech responses
(ASA 2007)
Supportive Ideas for the Home…

1.Use pictures
2. Smooth out your
transitions
3. Try music and singing
 Pictures…

Use a variety of pictures to

support language
 Logos
 Photos
 Icons
 Line drawings
Smooth out your transitions…

 Use a timer Almost

Done… 5,
 Let your child carry 4, 3, 2 ,1
something or “help” you
 Let the child hold
something
 Give your child a 1-2
minute warning every
time any activity is
almost finished and a
5 minutes ……………………………..Time’s Up
visual cue
 Develop a count down
system
 Create a picture board
Music and Singing…

Music
Singing
 The END
For more information go to
www.autismclassroom.com