Education
Children with Asperger profiles—even those who are very smart and enjoy learning—may find school challenging. They may find it difficult to deal with the sensory environment (noises, smells), with social demands, and with gross and fine motor tasks. It may be hard for them to remain attentive, organized, and calm throughout a long, varied school day.
Because each student on the autism spectrum is unique, there is no single prescription for educational success. There will always need to be an individualized plan for each child. However, there are some strategies and approaches that ease stress and anxiety and help students thrive at school.
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I am a formally diagnosed autistic woman and the parent of an autistic adult who I parented through early intervention, public school, post-secondary experiences and now, into adulthood as I support him navigating through rehabilitation services. I am a social worker and researcher, but when it... more
Sensory Advocacy at School
03/03/2022
There are many lists and suggestions for sensory-based accommodations for autistic students. Gaining a sense of your student’s unique sensory profile is important – what causes distress and what helps them stay regulated. They may be impacted differently at school than at home. What can a... more
Transitioning to a new grade, a new school, or back to in-person classes after remote learning can be a significant adjustment. You may have done a lot to get ready: previewed the transition with your autistic child or teen, discussed what to expect, developed a plan with their team, and prepared... more
Original article appeared in the White Plains Examiner and Putnam Examiner January 31st, 2012. Updated content: August 2021.
Does your child have good ideas but struggle to get them down on paper? Do you frequently return to your child’s school to retrieve forgotten homework assignments? Have... more
Here are a few special education advocacy tips from AANE as students head into an uncertain learning environment this fall. Whether they attend school in-person, hybrid, or remotely, we can help you set your child up for success.
While some kids thrived remotely with reduced social pressure... more
Families are under unprecedented stress as they grapple with the impacts of school closures. Many are worried about what will happen with their child’s education when school resumes. For children with Asperger profiles who depend on the routine and structured environment at school, these times... more
Education Bi-Monthly Hints
Article
When your child gets special education services in elementary school, there are so many details to remember that it can be overwhelming. You wonder: What should I do—and what will people at school do? Where do I start? There is no list of hints that fits everyone, but here are a few ideas to think about each school... more
The role of the classroom teacher is of utmost importance in ensuring the success of the child with an Asperger Syndrome. The classroom teacher sets the tone of the class and is responsible for making sure all the needs of the children are being met. Like an orchestra conductor, the teacher is the one person that keeps things together and “in... more
Homework is an issue that needs careful consideration for the student with AS. Hopefully this article will help both parents and teachers focus your thinking about homework and make good decisions for your student. Decisions about homework should be addressed by the whole educational team, including parents and, if possible, the student... more
Based on what we hear from families, the majority of children with Asperger Syndrome can succeed in school provided they receive sufficient, appropriate support. However, it is important that not only the teachers, aides, and specialists working directly with the child, but also everyone in the school and special education hierarchies is willing... more
The Role of the Teacher’s Aide
Article
Most children with Asperger’s Syndrome are in public schools following an Individualized Education Plan. The IEP may specify that the child have an aide in the classroom. AANE asked aides, a parent and a child to explain, in their own words, what an aide does.
Adjusting the AS Student to a... more
So It’s a Month Into School and…
Article
By October, the quiet honeymoon time of getting acquainted and slower academic demands is ending, and everything gets ratcheted up. By now, new and “quirky” behaviors may be seen as annoying, teachers start to feel that it’s time to get going making their academic deadlines, and our children show more signs of stress. Reviewing a new book,... more
Team Meeting Survival Tips
Article
Over the past eight years, I’ve had the occasion to participate in many school based team meetings for my two sons. Both of them have learning issues, both have been on IEPs and on 504 plans at different points in their education.
I barely remember our first meeting, back when my now 8th grader was in preschool. I do remember walking into it... more