Understanding how autistic children learn is key to teaching them with the same intensity as other children. This may seem like a straightforward idea, but autistic children learn so differently from non-autistic children that understanding Autism itself is a must before trying to teach autistic children. By becoming educated about the disorder, teachers can more effectively learn to deal with autistic children and adults both in and out of the classroom.

Autistic children are often visual thinkers. Thus, teaching by speaking will not be entirely effective. Teachers should combine pictures with words for the autistic child to fully comprehend the lesson. For instance, if you are teaching about the animals of the world, you should have a flash card with the word “mouse,” say the word aloud slowly and clearly, and show the child a picture of a mouse, and perhaps even bring a live mouse in to show. Nouns may be easier to teach autistic children, since verbs require action and can be more difficult to illustrate. If you are teaching autistic children words such as “sit” or “stand,” you should complete these actions while you teach the word. Also, because of the tendency to be primarily visual, autistic children often have trouble following long sentences. They cannot decipher the sequence and so become confused. Thus, written instructions can be very helpful when proctoring tests or quizzes.

Autistic children often fixate on a particular object or picture. If this is the case, try incorporating that object or picture into lesson plans. For example, if the child likes airplanes, try using airplanes for visuals wherever you can in the lesson. When teaching math, for instance, create word problems about planes to increase the interest the child. Autistic children are often artistic or musical, producing highly original drawings and showing above average abilities with instruments or voice. Try setting aside time in the day for the arts and encourage activities that the children enjoy.

Autistic children may also have trouble writing because of limited control over their hands and movement. This is frustrating for both the child and the teacher. To reduce frustration, allow the child to use a computer and appropriate applications for their abilities.

By being open to teaching an autistic child to the best of your ability you are not only giving him or her the best opportunities in life, but you are also being a good role model to the other children in the class. Do not allow an autistic child to ruin the learning experience for others, but rather incorporate his or her oddities into your lessons as much as possible. Creating a more comfortable and prejudice-free classroom is the best gift you can give this child.