Beginning school is a challenging time for most young children. For those with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) the significant change this entails can be overwhelming, and everyone involved will be in need of guidance to make the transition as smooth and as stress-free as possible.
This positive and practical book arms schools with a wealth of essential information, easy-to-implement strategies and photocopiable resources that will help to make early schooldays an enjoyable experience for young children on the spectrum. Constructive suggestions, such as introducing visual schedules and accommodating sensory issues, will help children with ASD to feel comfortable in school, and activities including making a 'happy scrapbook' and a home-school diary will support staff home liaison.
From Home to School with Autism is essential reading for education professionals seeking to encourage and inspire greater confidence in young children with ASD as they embark on school life.
Preface 1. Introduction. 2. First Steps. 3. The Importance of Good Communication. 4. How the Parents/Caregivers Can Help the School. Prepare a pupil profile. The pupil profile. Sample pupil profile. Home visual schedule. The 'Happy Scrap Book'. 5. The Home/School Liaison. The Starting School Book. Reinforcing consistencies. 6. Starting School Procedures. 7. Visual Support in the Classroom. 8. Supporting Transitions at Home and School. Transition Trains. 9. The 'Good Job Log Book'. 10. Disclosure: Who Needs to Know? 11. Avoiding Trouble in the Classroom. 12. Top Tips for Teaching Assistants. 13. Pictorial Narratives. School. The teacher/s. The children. Different adults. Assembly. Playtime. Wet playtimes. My peg. The toilet area. Visitors. The workstation. Lunch time (dinner time). Sharing classroom toys. The reward/treat/activity board. The 'Good Job Box'. 14. Photocopiable Resources. 15. Troubleshooting. New class. Start of day. School assemblies. Playtimes. Play/activity/choosing times. P.E. lessons/gym class. Swimming lessons. Obsessions. Staffing changes. End of term/school year. The Fire Bell (song). 16. The Final Word.
