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Welcoming new child and family to our school

meganlee
over 11 years ago

Hi everyone,

I have been a teacher for several years and teach at a mainstream primary school. 

My new class in September will include a child with autism.

Thankfully a statement is already in place for 20hrs support and we have a lovely and experienced TA in place.

I was hoping for some advice on how best to start off my relationship with this child and their family. More focusing on the family really as I know each child with asd is unique and their specific needs, abilities and interests vary.

I know that sending your child to school for the first time is a scary experience in itself. What would you have liked your child's teacher to do, ask or offer?

Is there anything I should avoid? (I'm thinking of the type of 'well-meaning' things which actually cause upset.)  

I also have the opportunity to reorganise my classroom completely in September as we are having building work during August. If anyone has any suggestions for spaces I should create in the classroom or things I should avoid that would be great.

My main concern is that this child should have a safe and happy space to explore and grow for their first year in school and that their parents should feel welcomed and supported by our school.

 

Parents
  • over 11 years ago

    Also, don't forget that he will take things literally so you need to explain things in as concrete a way as possible.  He is likely to struggle with understanding some humour and also metaphors.

    If he has any stims, (stereotypies) providing they are not damaging to him or others, let him do them as much as possible as they are very necessary to people on the spectrum.  They can help release stress and retain control.

    If he has light sensitivity, would be a good idea not to sit him right next to a window or below a fluorescent light.

    The parents will really appreciate you asking them what their son's individual needs are, it is important not to make assumptions based on what you may have read about autism, because every autistic person has their own unique blend of the traits and also still has their own personality.

    There should be more teachers like you, prepared to ask what is needed and taking positive action.

Reply
  • over 11 years ago

    Also, don't forget that he will take things literally so you need to explain things in as concrete a way as possible.  He is likely to struggle with understanding some humour and also metaphors.

    If he has any stims, (stereotypies) providing they are not damaging to him or others, let him do them as much as possible as they are very necessary to people on the spectrum.  They can help release stress and retain control.

    If he has light sensitivity, would be a good idea not to sit him right next to a window or below a fluorescent light.

    The parents will really appreciate you asking them what their son's individual needs are, it is important not to make assumptions based on what you may have read about autism, because every autistic person has their own unique blend of the traits and also still has their own personality.

    There should be more teachers like you, prepared to ask what is needed and taking positive action.

Children
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