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On-line Consultancy
 
As a parent of an autistic spectrum child we are thrown into an unknown world of SEN and inadequate help for them in most settings.  This then puts us into the path of the Education Authority and that is another minefield!  I am the parent of a teenage child with severe autism.  My child had a diagnosis at age two and I first persued a Statement of SEN for him before the age of four.  This was prompted when I could not get him one-to-one help at playgroup funded by the authorities.  I subsequently sought appropriate help for him for 12 years.  During this time I gained knowledge of SEN Law and have been considerably successful in dealing with the authorities regarding my son.  I have been successful in helping other parents to get the required placement (or appropriate educational help) for their children through the education system on many occasions and have been successful in dealing with Social Services.  I offer my services on-line and by telephone as a hired consultant.  For further details, click the link below.

Click here to know more about consultancy.

Pointing

Remember that ASD children often have sensory problems, two of which may be sensitive hearing or unexpected bodily contact.  Loud praise or sudden hugs may actually put them off responding. Speak quietly and show patience - remember - no pressure gets better results!.

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Teaching your child to use symbols.

First they must make the connection between the symbol and the real thing.  This can be achieved through associating the activity with the symbol - by showing the child the symbol during the activity.  Always say the word on the symbol too to aid language skills (and always wait after asking a question or using a word....to give the child the chance to process and copy verbally).  For the child to make choices, encourage touch pointing.  You can teach this by placing your hand over his (hoh) to start with.  Using something you know he doesn't like and something he likes and moulding his hand to point and touch the symbol of the wanted object, or food.  Immediately give him the actual item and show him the symbol too.  Give quiet but enthusiastic praise.  Do this repeatedly and with different objects and food.  When he is consistently independently touch pointing without hand over hand, gradually hold the symbol or object further away to result in pointing.  Always say the word and keep language specific and simple.  Remember, patience is rewarded!

NAS Web Site : Approaches to communication

We are on the National Autistic Society Web site

Research Autism

PO Box 8218, Braintree, Essex CM7 9WZ
 
Phone: 07946 569900