What is ASD?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that mainly affects three key areas: communication, social interaction, and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Some children speak very little, while others may speak a lot but communicate in an unusual way. Children with ASD often prefer fixed routines and may feel uncomfortable with change.
ASD varies from child to child—some have mild difficulties, while others face more significant challenges.
Main Symptoms of ASD
1. Social Interaction Difficulties
- Difficulty making eye contact
- Trouble forming friendships with peers
- Preference for playing alone
- Difficulty understanding facial expressions and emotions
2. Communication Difficulties
- Delayed speech development
- Speaking in single words or short phrases
- Echolalia – repeating others’ words or sentences
- Difficulty giving direct or appropriate answers to questions
3. Repetitive Behaviour
- Repeating the same drawing lines or actions
- Hand flapping, spinning, tapping objects
- Strong preference for the same routine; distress or meltdowns when routines change
- Intense interest in specific topics (e.g., trains, numbers, calendars)
4. Sensory Sensitivity
- Covering ears in response to loud sounds
- Overreaction to light, smell, or touch
- Some children show sensory-seeking behaviour, such as repeatedly touching objects or seeking pressure
Learning Difficulties Seen in School
- Delay in understanding instructions
- Difficulty participating in group activities
- Meltdowns or crying when routines change
- Misunderstandings due to limited or fragmented communication
- Excess sensory input leading to distraction
- Difficulty maintaining consistent classroom behaviour
What Teachers Can Do (Interview-Friendly Points)
1. Use Visual Support
Children with ASD understand better through visuals, such as:
- Visual timetables
- Picture cards
- First–Then charts
These tools greatly improve behaviour and learning.
2. Give Simple, Clear, and Short Instructions
Give only one instruction at a time:
- “Open page 10.”
- “Write two lines.”
Too much talking can confuse the child.
3. Maintain a Fixed Routine
If a change is expected, inform the child in advance.
Example: “Today we will go to another classroom. Don’t worry.”
4. Provide a Sensory Break Space
A quiet corner for 5 minutes helps reduce stress and overstimulation.
5. Use a Peer Buddy System
Pairing the child with a patient classmate supports social skill development.
6. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise even small improvements:
- “Very good! You sat calmly.”
This helps increase stability and positive behaviour.
7. Apply Behaviour Shaping Techniques
Gradually increase expectations:
- Praise for sitting 1 minute → then 2 minutes → then 5 minutes.
8. Stay Calm During a Meltdown
- Do not shout or punish
- Reduce noise and lighting
- Give the child time to calm down
Management and Support for ASD
- Behaviour Therapy (e.g., ABA)
- Speech Therapy
- Occupational Therapy (OT)
- Special Education support / Individualised Education Plan (IEP)
- Medication, if required, as advised by a doctor
- Collaboration between family, teachers, and specialists is essential