Autism

In the recent years, there has been an increase with the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2007), 1 in 150 children are said to be autistic and according to many states ASD is seen as an epidemic. The problem with these numbers is how to teach these children affectively in the best academic environment. In 2005-2006 it was reported that 31% of autistic students were placed in general education classrooms and around 40% in separate classes, typically referred as autistic support classrooms (U.S. Department of Education, 2007). Characteristically, the student will be placed in an autistic support (AS) room because the general education room is not the least restricted environment for that child.

Most children with severe and pervasive disabilities need a classroom that will start at their unique skill levels. The children need to learn numerous and diverse behavior changes, probably different in each of their cases that cumulatively, would enable each child to enter and benefit from the general curriculum. To assign children with autism who do not possess those skills to the usual public school classroom is to assign them to regression. (Baer, 2005, p.9)

I was given the opportunity to experience how an autistic support class operates. Most importantly, I was able to view some of the techniques are that used on a daily basis. During the 2009–2010 school year, I worked as a therapeutic staff support (TSS) in Mrs. F’s kindergarten autistic support classroom. During the current school year (2010), I became a Blended Case Manager (BCM) where I was also given the opportunity to visit Mrs. F’s classroom on a bi-weekly basis. Over the past year and a ...

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... challenge of behavioral obstacles that her students may face. As a school psychologist, it will be important and beneficial to have background in behavior modification to make sure my future students will feel comfortable and at ease during my time with them. Also, after many time with Mrs. F I have seen how to affectively managed my time and different ways to handle certain administrative situations that may arise.

In closing, my time in the kindergarten autistic support room has opened my eyes to say the least. I have a greater understanding and respect for these children and teachers. I have seen many teachers and aids with my work as a case manager but I have not seen a better teacher as Mrs. F. I was fortunate and lucky to work with such an experienced professional in the field to help lay my foundation for my future role as a school psychologist.