Introduction to Peer Tutoring
- Introduction
- Learning Disabilities
- Mild Disabilities
- Attention Deficit Disorders
- Life Skills Class
- Emotional Disorders
- Autism
- For Teachers/Evaluation
Autism
What is autism?
Autism is a type of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). It interferes with a person's ability to communicate with and relate to others. Autism is a lifelong condition which makes social interactions during the school years and into adulthood difficult. Autism affects how a person perceives and processes sensory information. Signs of autism almost always develop before a child is three years old, although the condition is usually not diagnosed until later.
The severity of autism varies. Some individuals need assistance in almost all aspects of their daily lives and may need special education services for most of the school day to be successful. Others are able to function at a very high level and can even attend school in the general education classroom for a large portion of the school day. Studies show that below-normal intelligence (IQ) occurs in about 70% of autistic children. In addition, the social functioning of students who are autistic is usually less than what is expected for their intelligence quotient levels (IQ).
Difficulty with social interactions and peer relationships is a huge concern for students with autism along with any academic concerns they may have as well.
How can you, as a peer tutor, help?
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Many people with autism are visual thinkers. Draw pictures or use picture cards to help students learn new concepts and/or vocabulary.
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Break down long strings of verbal instructions. Students with autism sometimes have difficulty with sequencing. Write oral instructions down on paper.
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Many students with autism are good at art, drawing, and computer programming. Encourage any talents your student may have. Talents can be turned into skills that can be used for future employment.
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Many autistic children get fixated on one subject such as cars. The best way to deal with fixations is to use them to motivate for school work If the student likes cars, use cars to teach math or science concepts. Read books about cars with the student in free time. Write and research about cars.
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Use concrete visual methods to assist with math concepts.
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Assist the student in typing assignments on the computer. Many autistic students have problems with motor control of their hands. Neat handwriting is sometimes hard.
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Some children and adults can sing better than they can speak. They may respond better if words and sentences are sung to them. If you can sing, Sing!!! Some students with extreme sound sensitivity will respond better if you talk to them in a low whisper.
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Some autistic children can not listen, view a program, and write at the same. During a video presentation in which your student may be required to take notes, take notes for them while they concentrate on viewing and listening to the video.
For more information on autism, please visit one of the websites below: