In a previous blog post, I discuss how we will often disclose our son's autism diagnosis to others. In a classroom setting, an ASD child will be with the same classmates for the full year. We felt it was important to disclose the diagnosis to the other children for many reasons. We choose to do this in the form of a class presentation.
1) To foster understanding and acceptance
We them to understand that children with ASD may talk or behave differently from others. We want them to understand why. It's because they have autism. We want them to understand what autism is. We want to encourage the other children to approach and interact with the child with ASD. We don't want them to be scare off by any behaviours that might result from sensory or other challenges.
2) To understand why there may be accommodations
Many children with autism with require some form of accommodation in the classroom. This is often to help them overcome any sensory challenges, to manage behaviours, or to modify the workload to their level. They other kids might perceive this as special treatment if they are unaware of the diagnosis
3) To provide suggestions for interacting with an ASD child
We also want the other children to be aware of some things they can do to help the child with ASD. Also, what they can do to increase the success of the interaction.
So, should you give a presentation to you child's classroom?
It is an individual decision that each parent must make. Here are some things to consider:
1) Does your child know they have autism?
2) What is your child's severity level?
3) How old is your child? What grade are they in?
4) How will give the presentation? The parent?, the teacher?, the child?
5) Is the school and teacher on board?
6) Do you want your child to be present during the presentation?
More on what to include in the presentation next week.
No comments:
Post a Comment