Download 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
and
Asperger’s Syndrome
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.
(Wikipedia)
Autism - Triad of Impairments
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, gifted
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
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
Family School Partnership
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Open communication
Agreed & familiar strategies –
visual cues, structure
Regular support
Willingness to try new ideas
Drawing on strengths