Scenario 2 (first grade):
Charlie, a first grader, shows atypical difficulty in using words to verbally
communicate with you and his peers. He also struggles to form relationships and
bonds with others. Upon his parents’ request and thanks to his parents’ support, he
was tested for a disability. The tests show that Charlie is likely on the autism
spectrum. Charlie is now on an IEP.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental illness that impairs behavior,
speech, and social functioning. It is distinguished by variations in communication and social
contact, as well as confined and repetitive patterns of conduct.
Autism affects three important brain regions: the cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, and
amygdala. Gaining an understanding of these effects can help design therapies and interventions
that are specifically targeted, which will eventually enhance the lives of people with ASD.
Autism is a complicated genetic condition caused by interactions between several genetic
variants and environmental variables. Atypical autism is a variant of autism spectrum disorder
(ASD) that is distinguished by symptoms that do not entirely correspond to Asperger's syndrome
or classic autism. It is often referred to as Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise
Specified (PDD-NOS). ASD's genomic landscape includes single nucleotide polymorphisms,
copy number variation, and epigenetic changes.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have a significant influence on a child's
educational experience. Children with ASD may struggle with verbal and nonverbal
communication, social engagement, and understanding school directions. They may also have
, developmental delays and restricted interests. Furthermore, ASD can cause sensory processing
difficulties, cognitive impairments, and language and communication challenges.
Teachers need to support students with Autism and use effective strategies in the
classroom. Here are some strategies that can be used to help teachers and students in the
classroom. Effective communication and social skills are crucial so that the student knows how
to navigate in the classroom. Teachers need to encourage peer interactions, teach explicit social
skills, and utilize visual support. Teachers should use visual aids, visual cues, and visual
schedules. Making their surroundings sensory-friendly because they occasionally have sensory
sensitivity issues and get overstimulated. Teachers need to be aware of the lighting, noise
reduction, and sensory breaks. To provide the tools and support required to assist a child with
autism to flourish in the classroom, teachers must collaborate with parents and other experts.
They need to build supportive networks that can help support the students’ learning and
development. They need to have an IEP or 504 plan to meet the students' unique needs.
The child will need help at home so make sure that the parent knows some strategies or
techniques that they can use to support the child at home. Individualized behavior strategies are
tailored to the child's unique needs and challenges. Resourceful family notebooks to keep track
of important information and communicate with caregivers. They need to establish a routine with
visual aids or charts to help the child understand what to expect each day. To improve family
support techniques, they might join support groups and make use of expert resources.
Scenario 4 (fourth grade):
Babies of low birth weight often face certain health conditions later in life (March
of Dimes, 2016). Marc, a fourth grader in your class, was born prematurely.