How to Support a Child With Autism in School

Supporting a child with autism can be challenging and frustrating for parents. However, families can thrive with the right support system and education system. Autism is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by repetitive and unusual behavior and a lack of communication and social interaction. Autism causes are unknown and possibly inherited by a genetic defect. Your autistic child can learn new skills in school to help him overcome developmental challenges.

Instructions

• 1

  Research the subject of autism to learn about treatment options. Parents can make better decisions about their child's education after learning about autism spectrum disorders.

• 2

  Educate yourself about education techniques that work for autistic children. Parents need to visit their child's classroom and build a relationship with the teacher. Ask the teacher about the learning techniques used in the classrooms and continue the learning at home. If you are unsure about techniques used in the classroom, ask questions of the teacher and school leaders.

• 3

  Discover what triggers your child's disruptive behavior and how to calm her when dealing with temper tantrums. Share this information with her teacher. An autistic child can exhibit disruptive behavior because of feeling stressed and uncomfortable. Being disruptive in the classroom can prevent your child from progressing mentally.

• 4

  Create consistency to reinforce learning. For example, the teacher may teach your child to speak by saying the name of snacks that he has for lunch. Practice the same techniques at home to create consistency and to reinforce learning.

• 5

  Establish a daily schedule for your child. Children with autism develop best with structure and a consistent routine. A schedule should consist of times for homework, meals, therapy, school and bedtime. Keep disruptions to the schedule to a minimum, and prepare him in advance for any schedule changes.

• 6

  Support your child and never give up on her progress. No one can predict the development of an autism spectrum disorder. While a cure is not available for autism, early intensive treatment can improve communication, social skills and behavior. According to the University of Michigan Health System, autism treatment should start as soon as possible and must involve one-on-one interaction with your child. Treatment plans may include behavior modification, medicine, educational therapy, support and facilitation.