Preparing Students with Autism for a New School Year

Preparing for a New School Year

As a new school year approaches, it's important to take proactive steps in preparing students with autism for a successful transition. By building a foundation for success and establishing effective communication channels, students can feel more confident and supported in their educational journey.

Building a Foundation for Success

One crucial tip to help reduce anxiety, especially for children on the autism spectrum, is to talk frequently to your child about what to expect in the upcoming school year. This simple yet effective strategy, highlighted by Autism Speaks, can help alleviate uncertainties and provide a sense of predictability. Encourage your child to ask questions and express their concerns, and be sure to address them with empathy and reassurance.

To further support students with autism during the transition, it is beneficial for parents and teachers to work together. Collaboratively introducing the student to their new teacher and classroom before the start of the school year can help establish a positive relationship and familiarize the student with their new environment. According to Edutopia, this early introduction can significantly contribute to a smoother transition.

Visiting the new classroom a few days before the new school year starts or towards the end of the previous school year can also be helpful. This allows the student to acclimate to the sights, sounds, and feel of the classroom without the pressure of focusing on lessons or social interactions simultaneously. By providing this opportunity for familiarity, students with autism can feel more comfortable and prepared.

Establishing Communication Channels

Open and effective communication between parents, teachers, and students is vital for a successful school year. Parents should take the initiative to request a meeting early in the new school year with the student's new teacher. This meeting provides an opportunity to discuss the student's individualized education program (IEP) accommodations, strengths, challenges, and successful strategies from previous years. Involving relevant school staff, such as special education teachers or support personnel, in these meetings can ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the student's needs and support strategies [1].

Establishing effective communication channels also involves reviewing the classroom environment for any potential issues that might cause stress to the student with autism. Proactively addressing these issues, such as the proximity of the desk or storage cubby to high-traffic areas like the classroom door, can help in managing the student's stress levels during transitional times of the day. Teachers can collaborate with parents to identify potential triggers and implement appropriate accommodations or modifications to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

By building a foundation for success and establishing effective communication channels, students with autism can start the new school year with confidence and support. These initial steps lay the groundwork for a positive and inclusive educational experience, setting the stage for future growth and learning.

Evidence-Based Strategies for Students with Autism

When it comes to supporting students with autism, evidence-based strategies are essential for maximizing their success in the classroom. In this section, we will explore two key strategies: implementing effective teaching practices and collecting and analyzing data.

Read about: Understanding Autism in the Classroom

Implementing Effective Teaching Practices

Federal laws such as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA '04) mandate the use of evidence-based academic and behavioral practices and programs for children with autism. The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder has identified 27 evidence-based practices for improving outcomes for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) [2].

To effectively implement these practices, educators should focus on strategies that have been proven effective for students with autism. This involves teaching appropriate behaviors and skills while decreasing inappropriate behaviors. By using evidence-based practices, educators can provide targeted instruction tailored to the unique needs of students with autism [2].

Read about: Teaching Writing To Students With Autism

Collecting and Analyzing Data

Collecting and analyzing data is an integral part of supporting students with autism. It allows educators and practitioners to evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented evidence-based practices and ensure that they are being implemented with fidelity.

The process of selecting an evidence-based practice for a child with autism involves identifying the target behavior, collecting baseline data, indicating the goal in the child's individualized education program (IEP) or individualized family service plan (IFSP), and determining which evidence-based practices can address the target behavior.

By collecting data on the behavior of a child with autism, educators and practitioners can monitor progress, make informed decisions about interventions, and adjust instructional strategies as needed. This data-driven approach helps ensure that students receive the most effective support and that interventions are tailored to their individual needs.

In summary, implementing effective teaching practices and collecting and analyzing data are crucial components of supporting students with autism. By utilizing evidence-based strategies and continuously monitoring progress, educators can create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that promotes the success and well-being of students with autism.

Transitioning to Postsecondary Education

As individuals with autism prepare for the transition to postsecondary education, careful planning and exploration of available options are essential. This section will discuss the importance of planning for future education and navigating postsecondary options.

Planning for Future Education

According to Autism Speaks, it is crucial to start planning for postsecondary education early. Meeting with a guidance counselor to explore available options, taking advantage of career exploration classes, and campus tours can help individuals understand the expectations and requirements of different settings. If planning to attend a traditional college, obtaining a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) is necessary.

It's important to note that Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) do not transfer from high school to postsecondary education. Instead, laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act ensure equal access and non-discrimination, although they do not guarantee progress or success [3].

To receive services or accommodations in postsecondary education, individuals may need to disclose their autism, request necessary accommodations, and provide documentation showing the need for accommodations due to a disability. Developing self-advocacy skills, including practicing discussions about autism, strengths, challenges, and naming helpful accommodations, is crucial for success in college and adult life [3].

Navigating Postsecondary Options

Postsecondary education offers various options, and it's important to understand that not everyone follows the same path. Exploring different program possibilities and understanding what fits an individual's needs is crucial. Autism Speaks provides a guide to help individuals gain a better understanding of program options.

After deciding on a postsecondary program, seeking advice and insights from autistic individuals in different settings and stages of their postsecondary careers can be invaluable. Tips and insights cover various aspects, such as making friends, study habits, communication with professors, and more. Learning from the experiences of others can help individuals better navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with postsecondary education.

By carefully planning for future education and exploring available options, individuals with autism can better prepare themselves for a successful transition to postsecondary education. Whether pursuing a traditional college experience or other postsecondary opportunities, understanding the expectations, advocating for necessary accommodations, and seeking support from the autism community can contribute to a positive and fulfilling educational journey.

Peer Support and Social Integration

When it comes to preparing students with autism for the new school year, incorporating peer support and promoting social integration are essential. Peer-mediated interventions (PMIs) and peer support arrangements are evidence-based strategies that have shown positive outcomes for students with autism in both social and academic domains.

Peer-Mediated Interventions

Peer-mediated intervention (PMI) is a well-established evidence-based practice for children with autism, ranging from three to 18 years old. PMI involves teaching neurotypical peers to support students with autism in various tasks across social and academic contexts. By involving peers in the intervention process, students with autism have increased opportunities for social interactions and skill generalization.

In PMIs, peers are taught specific strategies to support students with autism. These strategies can include promoting social interactions, fostering communication, and facilitating collaboration. The goal is to enhance social engagement and improve academic performance. Research has shown that PMIs are effective in increasing both social and academic skills in students with autism.

Implementing Peer Support Arrangements

Peer support arrangements are a variation of PMIs that involve one-to-one tutoring between a student with autism and a neurotypical peer. The purpose of peer support arrangements is to increase access to the general education curriculum and facilitate effective social interactions [4].

In peer support arrangements, peers are taught to implement a peer support plan, promote participation and social interaction, and provide academic support. This may include encouraging engagement, praising participation, and assisting with class-related tasks. These supports are tailored and regularly evaluated, with a shift in the adult role to a monitoring support role [4].

Teachers or paraprofessionals play a crucial role in facilitating peer support arrangements. They follow specific steps to implement these arrangements effectively in the general education classroom. By recruiting peers as interventionists, peer support arrangements provide increased opportunities for social interactions and skill generalization for students with autism [4].

Benefits of peer support arrangements extend beyond students with autism. Evidence indicates that peers who participate in these arrangements may also benefit academically, along with experiencing reduced autism stigma, increased independence, and fostered peer relationships.

By implementing peer-mediated interventions and peer support arrangements, students with autism can experience improved social integration, increased academic engagement, and enhanced overall success in the classroom. These evidence-based strategies provide opportunities for neurotypical peers to support their classmates with autism, fostering inclusive and supportive environments.

Classroom Support Strategies

To ensure a successful academic experience for students with autism, implementing effective classroom support strategies is crucial. In this section, we will explore two key strategies: priming and visual supports, as well as creating a supportive environment.

Priming and Visual Supports

Priming is a method of preparing autistic students for an activity by allowing them to preview the materials beforehand, providing predictability and reducing anxiety. This technique can be particularly helpful for individuals with autism who thrive on routine and structure. By familiarizing students with the upcoming task or lesson, priming helps to alleviate uncertainty and promotes a smoother transition into the learning activity. It should be conducted in a relaxing environment and led by a patient and supportive person.

Visual supports play a vital role in supporting the learning and comprehension of autistic students. These supports can include image-based information, schedules, visual cues, and written versions of information. By providing visual representations of concepts and instructions, visual supports help students with autism to better understand hidden school rules, enhance their focus, and support those with challenges in auditory processing or executive function. Color-coding can also be utilized to enhance clarity and organization. Visual supports promote independence, reduce anxiety, and facilitate communication by providing a visual structure to the learning environment [5].

Creating a Supportive Environment

In addition to specific strategies, creating a supportive classroom environment is essential for the success of students with autism. The environment should be designed to meet the unique needs of these students, providing a safe and inclusive space for learning. Considerations should be made regarding sensory sensitivities, noise levels, and the arrangement of furniture to minimize distractions and promote focus.

One effective strategy is to establish a "home base" within the classroom. A home base is a designated place where autistic students can plan or review daily events, regain control after a meltdown, or find solace during moments of stress. It should be perceived as a positive environment and may contain items for self-calming, such as a bean bag chair, weighted blanket, or mini-trampoline. This designated space allows students to take breaks and engage in self-regulation techniques, promoting a sense of security and emotional well-being.

By incorporating priming techniques, visual supports, and creating a supportive environment, educators can help students with autism thrive in the classroom. These strategies enhance communication, comprehension, and emotional well-being, ultimately maximizing their potential for success.

Addressing Challenges in the Classroom

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may encounter specific challenges in the classroom that can impact their learning experience. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure their success. This section focuses on two key areas: enhancing executive functioning and facilitating learning and interaction.

Read about: Strategies for Autism Behavior Problems in the Classroom

Enhancing Executive Functioning

Executive functioning can be a challenge for students with ASD, affecting their ability to complete tasks, plan ahead, and break patterns of thinking. Implementing strategies to enhance executive functioning can greatly support their academic progress. Here are some effective approaches:

• Explicit Instruction: Students with ASD benefit from clear, simple instructions that explicitly outline expectations, even if they may seem obvious to others. Providing explicit instruction helps them gain skills that other students might pick up naturally. Discrete Trial Teaching is one method that involves teaching skills explicitly [6].
• Establishing Routines: Establishing routines and providing instructional breaks are essential strategies to support students with ASD in the classroom. By establishing helpful routines with students, teachers can help redirect harmful routines and create a predictable and manageable environment for them. This predictability fosters a sense of stability and can improve their ability to focus and engage in learning.
• Sensory Considerations: Sensory discomfort can lead to behaviors that disrupt learning for students with ASD. Teachers can help eliminate barriers to learning by assisting students in identifying sensory inputs that may be impeding them or that they are seeking. By addressing sensory needs, teachers can create a more comfortable and conducive learning environment.

Facilitating Learning and Interaction

To facilitate learning and interaction for students with ASD, it is important to implement strategies that cater to their unique needs. Here are some effective strategies:

• Visual Supports: Visual supports, such as image-based information and written versions of information, play a crucial role in supporting autistic students. Visual supports help them focus, understand hidden school rules, and assist those with challenges in auditory processing or executive function. Utilizing color-coding techniques can further enhance clarity and organization [5].
• Creating a Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive environment involves structuring the physical space, establishing clear expectations, and promoting positive social interactions. A structured and organized classroom can reduce anxiety and confusion for students with ASD. Teachers can use visual cues, designated areas for specific activities, and consistent routines to create a supportive learning environment.

By implementing strategies to enhance executive functioning and facilitate learning and interaction, teachers can create an inclusive classroom environment that supports the academic and social growth of students with ASD. These strategies, along with other evidence-based practices, contribute to the overall success of students with autism in the classroom.

References

• ‍https://www.edutopia.org/article/helping-students-autism-transition-new-school-year-elizabeth-barnes/
• ‍https://www.autismspeaks.org/postsecondary-education‍
• ‍https://www.graduateprogram.org/2021/01/the-challenges-students-with-autism-face/