The conventional academic environment can be troubling for students with autism, but it is possible for your child with autism find success in school by providing support for the common roadblocks that exist in the classroom. Below, you can see just a few of the helpful strategies that might allow your child to feel more comfortable in school and get extra help when it is needed.
Schedule a school visit before class begins 
If your child is just starting school or moving to a new school, gaining familiarity with the environment can go a long way. Unfamiliar environments can be a big source of anxiety for children with autism, so having a preliminary look at the school facilities can reduce stress in his or her first days of school.
Communicate with your child’s teachers
Your child may have an IEP (Individual Education Plan) to outline educational goals and special needs in the classroom, and regular meetings may be set up to communicate with the school staff about the IEP. You might, however, set up additional meetings with your child’s teacher to check in and get a more detailed update on where your child is struggling and where he or she is succeeding in the classroom.
Create consistent reward systems
By regularly keeping in touch with your child’s teacher, you can also ensure that you use consistent systems for positively reinforcing good behavior. Children with autism will generally respond positively to consistent routines and interactions, so it is helpful to use the same systems of helping with homework and encouraging social interaction both inside and outside of the classroom.
With the School Support and Advocacy services offered by The Behavior Exchange , you can build a more positive relationship with your child’s school and ensure that he or she gets a great education. To explore all of the services at our Plano center, give us a call at (888) 716-8084.
