How do you manage with a few autistic children in a pre-school classroom?

Question

What kind of stress are you facing?

How do you deal with the stress?

How do you manage the autistic children with the other children to get things done?

What did you do if the autistic children misbehave?

Answer 1

As a teacher of any age - it is always important to remember that ALL students learn differently.  If you focus on the individual student needs you can celebrate their achieving their goals rather than the everybody but them got something done.

You need to make sure that you have given good instructions on what 'done' looks like.  Do you have a model of something that is colored correctly or 'when you have used all the puzzle pieces to make a picture you are done." or "when the time goes off you are done."

Practice and use the phrase with everyone - 'First this than that.'  First we will do reading - then we will play outside.

If you have clear rules - for all students - you should not have many issues but for students in general and specifically Autism or some other disabilities, it's good to ask WHAT not WHY.  Don't ask why they did something they likely cannot tell you and that promotes victim, whining and excuses for all students.  Instead ask What did you do..... and wait for an answer.  Slow down and listen they may know more than you think. (and sometimes more than you)

Advance notice of change - in 10 min we will start cleaning up. the in 5 min we will be cleaning up. etc.

Answer 2

Autistic children need extra patience. They are always on the go, and very impredictable. You as a teacher have to control your stress, deal with it and practice special behavioral strategies with these chldren. You have to be very consistent, persistent and work with them one on one. Remember they are all very different their own special way. According to their IEP's you have to treat them accordingly to what it says. Follow it with your heart because it is considered a legal paper. Specially if they have a certain procedure to follow. It is a very stressful environment. I am a substitute teacher and going into special education, I have been kicked, slapped, spit on, and you can't do jack but respect them, talk to them nicely and most of all, don't lose your patience.