Steph and Richard Semmens discuss the impact of the special interest group ‘The Engine Shed’ on the community and the importance of using special interests in engaging autistic children and young people. Richard also talks through his recent autism diagnosis.
Role play shopping game Roleplay shopping can be a really fun way of learning about coins as well as practising counting, all with the inclusion of motivating toys and items! Items Needed: Firstly, find some toys or items that the child will be really motivated by, anything from bubbles, to Read more
Understanding whose turn it is Autistic children can find it difficult to predict what will or could happen next. It can therefore be challenging to understand who will be chosen to have a turn during a group or class activity. This can lead to anxious or ‘disruptive’ behaviour (such as Read more
Personalised learning It can be challenging to engage any child if they are not interested. It can be even harder to engage children with autism if they are not motivated. A child must want to take part in a teaching activity otherwise it will be difficult to engage and keep Read more
Special iApps is a variety of exceptional apps aimed to teach a range of concepts to learners with special needs, including autism. The apps are clutter free and minimalistic, great for an easily distracted learner! There are no annoying in-app purchases or adverts that could be pressed at any time and Read more
Lesson and activity visual instructions During my subject, class or group lessons I will give each child a visual step by step instruction resource that me and my teaching assistants will have made using a symbol computer program (My school uses ‘Communicate In Print’) I print the symbol resources I’ve Read more
I currently have 1 iPad for my class of autistic children and I use it for 1 to 1 and group sessions. IPads are extremely motivating and rewarding for any child and the learning opportunities are endless. Here are some of the iPad apps me and my class love to Read more