Students with autism may display challenging behaviors that interfere with their education or another student’s education. When this happens, schools should address behavior issues by conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to create a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP). Doing so will help identify why the behavior is occurring and to address it appropriately. Furthermore, schools should make every effort to prevent the need for the use of seclusion and restraint.
Tag: learning
Job Skills
Working gives people the opportunity to show their abilities, take pride in their accomplishments, and contribute to the community. While there are organizations such as Easter Seals and government funded programs like Vocational Rehabilitation that provide job training and placement to people with disabilities, those services vary by area. Typically, those programs do not serve people under the age of 18. Overall, it is the parent’s responsibility to ensure their child is prepared to enter the workforce when the time comes. In this article, we will discuss how to begin working with your child on job skills so they will be prepared as they transition into adulthood.
In-Home Therapy Programs
Sometimes children receive therapies in their home environment instead of a therapy center, office, or school. Interventions that occur in this type of setting are called “in-home” therapy programs. In this article, we will discuss what an in-home therapy program is and how to start one for your child. Why Choose an In-Home Therapy Program? […]
Life Skills
Functional life skills are the everyday tasks we all need to lead independent lives. Mastering these skills builds self-esteem and confidence while gaining autonomy. Many people learn life skills through passive watching, imitation, or practicing a few times. Individuals with autism often need explicit instruction with many more repetitions to obtain the same skills. It […]
IEP Transition Planning
One of the core objectives of IDEA is to prepare students for life after high school. Specifically, further education, employment, and independent living. IEP transition services fulfill this objective, and the law requires them to begin the year your child turns 16 years old. Transition is an exciting time when students become part of the […]
New School Year Checklist
Get your child with autism ready for an exceptional start to the new year! Download our FREE “About Me” student information form and use this guide as a new school year “checklist” with tips and ideas to set your child up for school success!
Independent Assessments
In order to develop effective goals with your child’s team, you need to know what their strengths and areas of need are. You can determine each by conducting assessments. Assessment is the formal process where professionals analyze data to measure knowledge and skills. While schools perform assessments on a regular basis, there may come a […]
Therapeutic and Communication Options for Speech Issues in Autism
Providing your child with an effective means to communicate their thoughts, opinions, experiences, feelings, and knowledge is essential to creating a meaningful life for them. While it’s true that navigating speech issues in autism can be challenging, it is important to remember that challenging does NOT mean impossible. Furthermore, you don’t have to navigate these […]
Therapeutic Interventions for Autism
The most common therapeutic interventions for autism are occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). When exploring therapeutic interventions for your child, there are many options to consider. Therefore, you will want to make a prioritized list of your child’s needs. Take into consideration your child’s strengths and learning style, as […]
What To Do During Summer Months
Many parents worry about their child regressing during the summer break from school. There are multiple ways to keep your child progressing, even in the less structured summer months. Decrease Therapy Time Some families choose to reduce appointments during summer break. There are still plenty of activities to keep your child engaged! Teach your child […]
Engaging With Your Child at Home
Parents often struggle with how to help their child at home and may feel guilt that they are not doing enough. Below are some ideas for engaging with your child at home for you to try. Creating a home that your child can feel relaxed, safe, and loved sets your child up to thrive. Explore […]
Homeschooling Your Child with Autism
More parents of children with autism are opting to homeschool for a variety of reasons. In this article, you will information about homeschooling your child with autism, including: pros and cons to homeschooling, curriculum options, how to ensure your child has access to social opportunities, and sample schedules. Requirements for Homeschooling State law regulates homeschooling, […]
Inclusion
Inclusion is a philosophy based on the belief that ALL students belong to their school community. Inclusion gives all students–regardless of label–access to equal opportunities for meaningful participation. To clarify, access to meaningful participation is not limited to social interactions; it includes various curriculum options too. Furthermore, inclusion encompasses all areas of the school. It isn’t something […]
Special Education Conflict Resolution: Mediation and Due Process
There are times when parents may not be able to come to an agreement about what is needed for their child’s IEP with the school district. Because of this, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides the following options for special education conflict resolution: Mediation, Due Process, and Civil Action. Before we begin discussing […]
SMART IEP Goals
The goals on your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) lay the framework for their education, but what makes a good goal?
The Fundamentals of Special Education: What Parents Need to Know
In this article, Timothy A. Adams, Esq. discusses what parents need to know about the fundamentals of special education so they can better advocate for their children throughout the IEP process. Federal law defines special education as specifically designed instruction, at no cost to the parent, designed to meet the unique needs of a child […]
Special Education: IEP Tips
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is the foundation of your child’s education. Many parents feel overwhelmed and anxious about these meetings, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Below, you will find IEP tips to help you successfully navigate the Special Education process, including: Who is included on your child’s IEP Team Tips for […]
A – Z: Autism Journey Blueprints
The Autism Journey Blueprints were created as a quick introduction reference guide for families on the autism journey. Complete Autism Journey Blueprints: click here to download the PDF. AJ Blueprints – Years 1-3: click here to download the PDF. AJ Blueprints – Medical Intervention: click here to download the PDF. AJ Blueprints – Dietary Intervention: click here to download […]
A – Z: TACA Facts – a video series answering the most common questions
We are very excited about a new video series in collaboration with our friends at Autism Live. Introducing: TACA Facts This is an introduction to our new series “TACA Facts” sponsored by Autism Live. We’ll answer the most common questions for families living with autism in 2-3 minute segments. TACA Fact: Can children with autism […]
Reading Comprehension, Story Composition and Autism
By Lisa Ackerman Autism and learning in a typical educational or 1-to-1 environment can be extremely challenging. As parents and teachers, we have to modify our thinking to best address the needs of the individual – especially when autism is the diagnosis. This document is written parent to parent to address concerns with reading and […]