Autism Spectrum Disorder And The Transition Into Secondary School

An effective evidence-based programme, this practical handbook provides everything schools need to make the transition from primary to secondary school as smooth and successful as possible for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The first part of the book explains how to create individualised transition plans for each child, and describes how school staff can collaborate successfully with parents and carers. Part two contains a wealth of practical, photocopiable resources for use directly with pupils on the autism spectrum that help to address their most frequent support needs, including sensory sensitivities, anxiety issues and difficulties with planning and organisation. The resources can be used in a pick and choose way based on the individual needs of the child. Developed and trialled extensively by the Social Communication Disorders Clinic at Great Ormond Street Hospital, this handbook will be an invaluable resource for SENCOs, teachers, autism support workers, educational psychologists and other professionals working with pupils with ASD.

Drawing together contributions from experts at the forefront of research in the field, Supporting Social Inclusion for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders demonstrates that social inclusion is a defining feature of successful education of students with a spectrum disorder. Divided into three parts, this book begins by proposing a contemporary and operational definition of social inclusion that will help facilitate active engagement by all stakeholders involved in supporting social inclusion within educational settings. The relationship between well-developed social skills and positive social outcomes is also explored, and subsequent chapters explicate and contextualize social inclusion across a range of educational settings. The final chapters present case studies and viewpoints from stakeholders central to the successful social inclusion of students with the disorder. Through discussion of its findings, this book provides the reader with a deep understanding of social inclusion and confirms its importance in facilitating positive educational outcomes for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. A unique contribution to the field, this book will be of key interest to postgraduates, researchers and academics in the area of inclusive education and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It will also appeal to those who research, study and work in the areas of special and inclusive education, and developmental psychology.

The transition from primary to secondary school is a time of great anxiety for most children. For children with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) this anxiety can be overwhelming. Fear of the unknown, difficulty coping with monumental changes and the inability to imagine a favourable outcome, can all combine to make this unavoidable step in school life a time of great fear and dread. This book provides guidance for schools and parents on how to make the transfer from primary to secondary as easy as possible for children with ASDs. The book advocates the need for scrupulous preparation of transfer arrangements because children with ASDs struggle to predict the outcome of any new situation. No matter how much discussion has taken place, it is only when the situation has been experienced first hand that they will have a real understanding of it and be able to build up a 'real life memory bank' (RLMB). The authors' advice aims to ensure that any preparations lead to a favourable outcome, in order to build a positive RLMB. The book outlines term by term preparation in the final years of primary school and includes photocopiable resources and a "Moving to Secondary School" booklet. As most children with ASDs are visual learners and think in pictures, the booklet uses symbols to aid understanding. Making the Move provides a wealth of effective strategies and resources that will encourage and inspire greater confidence for pupils with ASDs, parents and schools.

In a convenient large-size format, this book presents the first research-based, comprehensive program designed to support high school students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Developed and tested in public schools by the Center on Secondary Education for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (CSESA), the program addresses four critical areas--literacy, social competence and peer relationships, independence, and postschool transition preparation for students and their families. Chapters provide a roadmap for implementation of each component, complete with intervention guidelines, case vignettes, key findings, lessons learned, and reproducible forms that can be downloaded and printed at the companion website. The book also helps readers navigate the wealth of additional resources freely available from CSESA.

Students on the autism spectrum often face difficulties in the secondary education environment that result from a lack of awareness on the part of their teachers and peers. This guide acquaints teachers with all the information and practical tools needed to understand and support their students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The book presents specific, ready-to-use classroom initiatives with example worksheets, checklists and timetables to help students keep organised with their school work. It also covers general obstacles such as social situations, anxiety, mental health issues and extracurricular activities and how adults can help. Guidance about the leaving school stage and how to ensure the teen is equipped to make the best possible decisions about their future is included. Packed with useful information and examples, this book will be a lifesaving resource for teachers, and everyone else working in secondary education, who want to help their students with autism to stay focused and positive at school.

Just as schools educate young people to become responsible citizens who can navigate the world of post-secondary education, careers, and social life, dedicated parents also want their child to mature and be independent and happy. Youth who transition to adulthood encounter many obstacles, including finances, skills for independent living, job security, and social connections. Transitioning from School to Adulthood: Practical Activities for Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Other Disabilities is a collection of descriptions, instructions, and practice activities for young people who face more barriers than most emerging adults. These activities are helpful for teachers, service providers, and parents assisting individuals with ASD, along with other disorders, such as Cognitive Disorders, Developmental Delays, and Specific Learning Disabilities. The activities are designed by future teachers, undergraduate students in the education major. Leaving the school environment and preparing for adulthood is a time of profound change. The adult world encompasses many firsts for young people. Planning for the changes enables more positive outcomes. The chapters in this book describe activities for independent life or supported environments, step-by-step instructions, and practice exercises. The areas of concentration include Socialization, Independent Living, Employment, Education, Self-Advocacy, and Health and Hygiene.