Transcript Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD)
Alright…so what’s the point?
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St Pat’s is an inclusive school
Associated behaviours with ASDs
Behaviours need strategies
We need a whole school approach
Legal aspect of inclusion
“Tony Shaddock Quote”
Overview
Session 1: What is ASD?
Session 2: The Matrix
(Pat Kelly not Keanu Reeves!)
Session 3: Strategies & Management
What next?
Evaluation
ASD is a spectrum disorder that
includes Autism
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Asperger’s Syndrome
So what do you already know?
‘Gingerbread Man’ Activity
The Spectrum
Spectrum Disorder – sliding
scale of impairments in behaviour,
communication, sensory and social
interaction, and cognitive functioning
 Autism
Asperger’s
Syndrome
Asperger’s
Atypical autism/
High Functioning
Autism
low functioning
What is Autism?
Autism is a developmental disorder
characterized by a triad of impairments:
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Impaired social interaction
Impaired communication
Restricted and repetitive behaviour
Autism - Triad of Impairments
Poster boy for Asperger’s
What is Asperger’s Syndrome?
Asperger’s Syndrome is a developmental
disorder characterized by dual impairments:
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Impaired social interaction
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Restrictive and repetitive behaviours and
interests
There is no intellectual disability, no
intellectual delay. They are often bright or gifted.
Do you recognise any of these qualities in students you know or
have previously taught?
Suggested causes for ASD
1. Genetic factors
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Genetic vulnerability
Higher incidence in families with a history
of ASD
Higher concordance with identical twins
Suggested causes for ASD
2. Prenatal factors
Obstetric complications
Thalidomide use
Brain injury
Breech presentation
Low apgar<5
Premature birth (<35 weeks)
Suggested causes for ASD?
3. Other
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Parental history of mental illness
Rapid and excessive growth of head size
during first year of life
Link to subtle brain damage
Group ‘Treasure Hunt’ Activity
Behavioural Issues
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Anxiety, sadness, anger, stress
Imaginary friends
Unusual mannerisms
Develop different accent to that of family
Repetitive actions such as tics, blinking
Motor clumsiness
Organizational problems
Poor time management skills.
Social Issues
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Seek solitude
Prone to being teased
Avoid affection
Inability to recognise social cues
Hard to make friends
Clumsy with communication
Literal
Poor eye contact
Family Issues
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grief - anger, numbness, denial, guilt
Isolation
Uncertainty, high stress level
Depression & mental health issues
Reduced spontaneity
Goals put on hold, loss of expectations
Decreased free time
Economics
Employment issues
Increased parental divorce
(83% by age of 12 – then 90% live with Mum)
genetic loading with more than one ASD child
worries about future.
Learning Implications
• Behaviour seen as naughty rather than
symptomatic
• Lack of understanding
• Need for routine and structure
• Regular support
• Willingness to try new ideas
• Drawing on strengths
• Visual cues
• Awareness of sensory issues
Physical Issues
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Management of the environment
Avoid known triggers
Awareness of sensory issues
Visual cues
Adapting where necessary
Back up plan – designated person
Time out
The Matrix
Strategies & Management
Need to always consider –
‘Family School Partnership’
• Open communication
• Agreed & familiar strategies –
visual cues, structure
• Regular support
• Willingness to try new ideas
• Drawing on strengths