Autism

	Autism

Autism affects 1 in 110 children, with the majority being boys (Autism Society of America). Although autism can not be "outgrown", early intervention can significantly improve a child's life and skills. In the schools, Occupational Therapy often contributes to a child's educational goals, including fine/visual motor, sensory, social skills, independent living skills, and modifications/adaptations. According the the Autism Society of America (1/28/08), the following are signs to be aware of:

Lack of or delay in spoken language
Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects)
Little or no eye contact
Lack of interest in peer relationships
Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
Persistent fixation on parts of objects

Below are links that might be helpful. Additional information can be found on the Sensory, Visual Support, and Staff Resources pages (for classroom applications).

Disclaimer
The information presented in this web site is provided as a source for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as a recommended program, or substitute for physician or therapist evaluation or treatment by a healthcare professional.

Autism and Video Modeling

In Depth with Temple Grandin - a long but VERY interesting interview with Temple Grandin, author, autism advocate, and animal scientist, talking about her life, career, and body of work. Topics included autism, how she thinks in pictures, and her work with animals.

Poems about Autism - by Brittney Corrigan, mother of a child with autism

Speakaboos - Audio stories, nursery ryhmes, songs, or record your own.

CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disabilities) Learning Curve - an online resource that provides interesting and interactive stories, ideas, resources and materials for teachers of students with autism or a related disability. Check it out!

Model Me Kids - videos for modeling social skills

DIR/Floortime - Dr. Stanley Greenspan - to build healthy foundations for social, emotional, and intellectual capacities rather than focusing on skills and isolated behaviors.

Autism Games - Really good site with simple games to increase interaction, attention, etc. for kids with autism

Autism for Teachers - site from Central FL

Creating Classroom Work Systems -video tutorial

Tracy Copley's Room

Work Baskets/Shoe Box Tasks

Annie's Resource Attic -adapted books

Yuichi's Games - baordmaker games

Why Knott Dream Big Foundation - mission is to help organizations and individual families through financial support

Autism Society of America

Teaching Tips for High Functioning People With Autism

Room 5 Autism Page

Sites for Autistic Support Teachers

Social Stories

Tinsnips

Don't stop here!! There are more links and files below!

Related Files

NEW - Using a Circle Time Book (PPS 1.54 MB)

Learning with work baskets (WMV 21.45 MB)
Demonstrates the benefits of using work baskets with students with autism.

Vocational Workshop for Adults-Part 1 (WMV 19.58 MB)
Demonstrates how to use work baskets for vocational tasks for young adults and adults.

Vocational Workshop for Adults-Part 2 (WMV 19.13 MB)
Demonstrates how to use work baskets for vocational tasks for young adults and adults.

10 Things Every Child With Autism Wishes You Knew (DOC 58 KB)
A must read for everyone!

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