Autism, Neurodiversity and Me

Experienced teachers Haia Ironside and Steph Reed discuss important themes to consider in autism early intervention. Themes include using a combined approach, the importance of a multidisciplinary team, intervention which is not directly targeted at the child but in the form of supporting parents, families and educational settings, the monitoring and evaluation process is in place to review impact. Also importantly highlighting the question “what are we intervening for and why?. The importance of effective home and school partnership where all information is being shared. Being informed about specific interventions and one we go into more detail is the SCERTS approach (because we both love it!). We also discuss family support and family engagement.

Autism specialist teacher Steph Reed shares success stories that highlight the effectiveness of visual resources to enhance understanding and communication for autistic children. With practical examples of experiences where visual resources have had a big impact and has helped with children's communication, independence and learning.

Steph and Richard Semmens discuss the impact of the special interest group ‘The Engine Shed’ on the community and the importance of using special interests in engaging autistic children and young people. Richard also talks through his recent autism diagnosis.

Steph and experienced teacher Adem Cetindemar discuss emotional regulation development and strategies for autistic children and young people who have severe learning difficulties.

Steph and Adem discuss emotional regulation development and strategies for children and young people with autism and severe learning difficulties. Some important factors to consider with emotional regulation are controlling environmental factors, sensory sensitivities, consistency, understanding the function of behaviour, functional communication supports, breaking down an activity into steps, language strategies and planning strategies. We also discuss the usefulness of filming a lesson or activity and giving time to yourself as a parent of teacher to reflect.

Autism specialist teacher Steph Reed talks through practical and inclusive teaching strategies to support and enhance autistic children's learning. These strategies will also have a positive impact on ALL children.

I discuss important practical strategies to implement when teaching autistic children. These strategies will also have a positive impact on all children. Top tips discussed in this episode include; considering the sensory environment, adapting our language and communication, being consistent, organisation, emotional regulation development, social interaction development, understanding functions of behaviour, transition supports, visual structure, ensuring learning is engaging and the importance of modelling.