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From Dr. Lauer and Dr. Beaulieu's talk
Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD):
How to Help Children with Autism Learn
Quick facts about Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD)/ Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Autism is a 'spectrum disorder' meaning that it affects children in different ways and at different times in their development.
- Typically, delays and learning problems can emerge in several areas of functioning including social functioning, communication skills, motor skills, and overall intellectual potential.
- Each child has their own learning style that includes specific learning challenges as well as areas of preserved skills and, at times, exceptional abilities.
- Both autism and Asperger's disorder are on the same continuum but are distinct in their expression.
What are the challenges students with PDD/ASD frequently experience?
- Academic difficulties that can often be misinterpreted as learning disabilities.
- Problems with executive functioning skills.
- Difficulty in forming relationships with peers.
- Emotional difficulties due to learning and social problems such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem.
- Fear of new situations and trouble adjusting to changes.
- May look like or be misconstrued as attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD), Oppositional-Defiant Disorder or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Why choose US to help YOU?
- Our evaluations are conducted by neuropsychologists who have been extensively trained in the early detection of autistic spectrum disorders and in the identification of specific patterns of learning strengths and weaknesses that are often associated with this condition.
- Our evaluations help determine which teaching style is best suited to fit an individuals' specific learning profile; we also offer suggestions regarding compensatory educational approached.
- We work as a team with other learning professionals, advocates and health professionals to enhance the child's potential for success in all settings.
'The design of truly individual treatment plans that exploit strengths and compensate for weaknesses begins with a detailed understanding of how learning is different for children with autism than for those without autism and how learning is different among children with autism.'
— Bryna Siegel, Ph.D., author of Helping Children with Autism Learn
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All of the gears are working together right now – Tisha’s needs connected to her FAS at home and school are being addressed, she’s started on medication that’s helping, and life is so much easier. We’ll likely be in touch regarding guidance for her senior year. Please know that we will also recommend several friends to your clinic because of the great experience we had with Tisha’s assessment.
Robert A.
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