Before I became a teacher, I worked in several jobs with Johnson Park School and Eden Autism of Princeton NJ. These places are well known for working with autistic individuals in schools, group homes, and work communities. Many things I learned while working there that have benefitted me as a teacher. Techniques and methods I use with my "special" and regular students, like positive reinforcement, remaining calm, understanding that behavior is a symptom of a syndrome or youth. I am NOT an expert in this field but I do speak from some experience.
I have noticed that there is a high level of attrition within the aids who help guide these students through their classes. I experienced new staff making simple errors that have made situations worse. I assumed they were getting proper training, but when everyone is focused on their own student, they really can't stop to guide a new aide. Many "would be" mentors are new themselves. The best ones leave for better jobs...
So I thought maybe there is a quick reference sheet, poster, guide that might help. When I could not find one, I created this one.
THIS LINK will take you to the larger poster I have made available. You don't need a poster to understand these ideas. No one can learn enough from a simple image to help all students with Autism, but I hope this is a start and a point of a larger learning experience. As with everything on my blog, it's all about the kids.
Avoid "NO"
No is often a trigger word that can make a situation worse. Avoid using it.
U-TURN
Redirect behavior to refocus the student. Instead of saying "no," say, "Let's do this first" or "How about we try this?"
TALK
Talking with colleagues, professionals, and parents is important to understand what behaviors we need to focus on. Some behaviors are antecedents to larger issues.
IGNORE
Ignoring the small behaviors that do not lead to distraction or harm is sometimes just as important as redirecting behavior.
Safety
For the child, the adult, and others present. Know the child's antecedents, and address them early. Routine is very important to those with autism. Be ready and watchful when routines are disturbed.
MODIFY
Consistency is important, but sometimes "things happen." Stay positive, and try a different approach. Be ready to modify your methods with a backup plan.
Here is a low resolution version you may share:
I have noticed that there is a high level of attrition within the aids who help guide these students through their classes. I experienced new staff making simple errors that have made situations worse. I assumed they were getting proper training, but when everyone is focused on their own student, they really can't stop to guide a new aide. Many "would be" mentors are new themselves. The best ones leave for better jobs...
So I thought maybe there is a quick reference sheet, poster, guide that might help. When I could not find one, I created this one.
THIS LINK will take you to the larger poster I have made available. You don't need a poster to understand these ideas. No one can learn enough from a simple image to help all students with Autism, but I hope this is a start and a point of a larger learning experience. As with everything on my blog, it's all about the kids.
Avoid "NO"
No is often a trigger word that can make a situation worse. Avoid using it.
U-TURN
Redirect behavior to refocus the student. Instead of saying "no," say, "Let's do this first" or "How about we try this?"
TALK
Talking with colleagues, professionals, and parents is important to understand what behaviors we need to focus on. Some behaviors are antecedents to larger issues.
IGNORE
Ignoring the small behaviors that do not lead to distraction or harm is sometimes just as important as redirecting behavior.
Safety
For the child, the adult, and others present. Know the child's antecedents, and address them early. Routine is very important to those with autism. Be ready and watchful when routines are disturbed.
MODIFY
Consistency is important, but sometimes "things happen." Stay positive, and try a different approach. Be ready to modify your methods with a backup plan.
Here is a low resolution version you may share:
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