Autism and Education

A. Family Education

Families can be actively involved in the treatment of children with autism. In addition, parents should be educated about the characteristics of autistic children and appropriate parental attitudes.

B. Educational Approaches

Education

Special education programs are implemented specifically for autistic children. The tasks assigned to the child and the goals to be achieved are determined according to the child’s performance. Rules that prepare the child for participation in group life are established within group settings. The aim is to help the individual gain self-care skills as well as practical daily living skills such as preparing meals and shopping.

Approaches Used in the Education of Children with Autism

Sensory Approaches in Autism

Sensory approaches include oral motor therapy, auditory integration, and sensory integration therapies.

Behavioral Approaches in Autism

Lovaas Approach

This approach is based on the work of Dr. O. Ivar Lovaas, a psychologist at the University of California, Los Angeles. The findings Lovaas obtained in the 1980s and the successful results achieved by applying this treatment to autistic children brought recognition and respect to this behavioral treatment approach.

Lovaas therapy is a treatment method consisting of many complex components. Some of these include the use of reinforcement, stimuli, prompting techniques, data collection, and skill acquisition.

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) Approach

The PECS approach was developed by Bondy and Frost in 1994 within the Delaware Autism Program. The most important feature of PECS is that communication is initiated by the child and that rapid results regarding communication skills can be achieved. The system is based on communication through picture cards.

TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children) Approach

This program was developed by Schopler and Reichler in 1996. The main philosophy of the program is to understand autistic children and their families and provide support to them.

Its goal is to prepare children for a future in which they can function independently, with support, or with minimal support at home, in the classroom, at school, in the community, and later in work and leisure activities. The program is based on cooperation between specialists and families.

Interactive Play Therapy

Floortime

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