World Autism Awareness Day April 2

The theme of World Autism Awareness Day this year is 'Empowering Autistic Voices' which aims at providing more support and power to the individuals with this condition, in order to ensure they lead a meaningful life and even pursue successful careers.

I have a grandson who is 15 and diagnosed as Autistic, I am trying to figure out a way to help him succeed in his life because right now he doesn't have a chance in hell

1. Priming: This prepares the student with autism for a situation or task. They may feel anxious if exposed to a sudden change or a new addition to their routine. A surprise class quiz or test, for example, can result in emotional meltdowns. However, if informed well in advance, they tend to take any test with utmost sincerity. Similarly, deciding on a signal for time to pause when in group conversations allows them to maintain unsaid social protocols.

2. Managing sensory stimulation: This is critical to keep the learning environment less stressful. It helps to understand the student's discomfort with flickering lights, unpleasant sounds, specific textures, etc., and address them as needed. Driven by senses, they might want to sit closer to the teacher who smells like their mother, in a quiet corner in a library, or might want to hum while working, etc.

3. A list of potential behaviours: List of a short and unambiguous list of expected behaviours can keep students with autism in control of their actions in a group setting. It’s more effective if this list is available visually in front of them.

4. Flexibility: Flexible approach to reading and comprehension of text ensures that students continue to be engaged in intellectually stimulating content, which might be the subject of their intense interest too.

5. Direct instructions: Explicit and direct instruction in the usage of figurative language will help students in their conversations with their peers. They tend to interpret expressions like metaphors, idioms, etc., literally, and thus familiarising them with the most commonly used figurative terms and phrases is important.

6. Teach as per their style: Working with the students on their frequency helps them reduce their outbursts. For example – not forcing them to write legibly, letting them take as much time in completing their work, allowing them to walk out of the class when it becomes overwhelming, etc.

7. Maintain a positive vibe: Facilitate a positive social environment for them by praising them for their unique strengths in front of their peers; awarding them with a certificate for something they are good at, along with their peers for their achievements; giving them responsibilities in events, etc.

8. Encourage them to speak out: Allowing them to verbalise their understanding of the concepts rather than in a conventional written format also encourages them to focus on the value of learning rather than a rigid form of expression.

Hindustan Times