How can we make our learners with autism feel included?
Autism is a developmental disorder that impairs someone’s ability to communicate and interact. Oftentimes, there are many social cues that are given off when an individual has this disability. For example, learners/students with autism often have a hard time making friends, working on group projects, and having everyday conversations with the other students around them. Learners with autism also struggle with the idea of change, they like a set routine, the same thing day in and day out. Week after week, and month after month. So how can we help them?
1. Be predictable. Have a set routine in place so they are never caught off guard
2. Model how to act in group settings and how to communicate so that they become more confident/comfortable
3. Give clear instructions
All three of these things will help your learner feel more included in the classroom, and overall help them in life!