Adaptive Learning
Each child has a different learning style, pace, and set of strengths and needs. Recognizing these differences allows us to find the proper resources to support our children in their academic journey. Students with Autism it is important to find what strategies work best to engage your child in learning. This month we will focus on the different strategies to support your student learning engagement. Whether it be learning the steps to tie a shoe or to solve an algebraic equation we will discuss ways to support your child.
Daily Routine
Like any child, a routine provides security. A routine sets clear guidelines and expectations, helping them know what comes next and gives them confidence in knowing how to complete each task. For students with autism, routines are especially helpful because they bring a sense of security and reduce the stress that can come from surprises or sudden changes. I have worked with students that would ask what was next several times in the day and if they were unaware of any changes they would become anxious and irretable. Having a consistent routine helps ease these worries and often prevents emotional breakdowns during transitions.
Visual Schedule
This type of schedule uses pictures to show upcoming activities or the steps to complete a specific task. Visual schedules are especially helpful for children who may feel anxious about what will happen next. They can be made with simple drawings, photographs of the child doing each step of the activity, or even words—whichever works best for your child. I have noticed that less is always more benifcial. Too many steps and it can become visually overbaring. From my experience, less is often more. Too many steps can feel overwhelming, while a simple, clear schedule is much easier for children to follow and benefit from.
Flexible Seating
Children with autism often have sensory needs, and flexible seating can be a helpful way to support them. Instead of sitting on a regular chair, flexible seating provides options. For example, some children focus better on a wobble stool or exercise ball because the movement helps them stay alert. Others may feel calmer on a beanbag chair, floor cushion, or even standing. To prevent overstimulation, start small by introducing just one or two seating options at a time and seeing which works best for your child.
Laying on the Floor
Standing
Keep Instruction Short
Many children with autism can find it hard to remember the steps in instructions. That’s why it helps to keep directions short and simple. You can also add pictures or visual cues so your child can look back at them while working. A great tool for this are Social Stories. These are short stories with step-by-step pictures that show exactly what to do. They can be used for all kinds of skills—like washing hands (instead of just playing in the water), knowing what to do when you feel upset, or even how to write an essay.
Use Math Manipulatives
When helping students with math instruction or homework, it’s important to find manipulatives that keep your child engaged and focused on learning. Some tools can actually become a distraction. I have seen students more interested in stacking or playing with teddy bear counters than using them to actually solve problems. I have also seen calculators become more of a distraction than a tool. One tool I’ve found helpful is a large pop-it. Students love pressing the bubbles as they add or subtract, and it can make math practice feel like a game. However, as with any strategy, what works for one child may not work for another. Consequently, it is important to try different options and see what best supports your child’s learning.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6 KJV