Autism: Curriculum Adaptations for Preschool Children
Large Groups for Preschoolers with Autism
In a preschool setting there are typically at least two large group settings in the school day. This can include story times and music/movement times. Preschoolers with Autism may need certain modifications to these times. Allow for children with autism to sit in a special spot or chair. They may need a toy to hold that they can fidget with. Allow them to take frequent breaks if needed. Taking a break can mean just walking around the classroom once and sitting back down. It is very important to be flexible and allow the child to sit during music/movement time. It may be a huge success for the child with Autism to just sit at group for weeks before they participate.
Small Groups for Preschoolers with Autism
Small group settings will need some adaptations for preschoolers with Autism. This may be a simple as making the group only 2-3 children to start and then slowly adding more children. If the Autistic child has low communication skills, offer pictures for making choices. If they are choosing art supplies, allow them to hand you a picture of the item they are requesting. This will encourage them to initiate communication and keep the adult from making all the choices for the child. Some children with Autism have tactile issues. Art supplies can sometimes be very intimidating for a child with Autism. If the activity is cutting and gluing, have the expectation be just to touch the scissors or glue. They can watch the rest of the activity. Children with Autism need the curriculum to be given to them in small pieces, so they can become comfortable with each part.
Free Play time for Preschoolers with Autism
Free play or area time in preschool is often a time for children with Autism to engage in rituals or self stimulation. This can be as simple as walking in circles or staring at the lights on the ceiling. When the environment is less structured, it is easier for preschoolers with Autism to get off task. The curriculum will need to be modified to provide breaks for these children throughout free play time. Preschoolers with Autism will engage in repetitive play which can become ritual or self stimulation. Provide time for them to take breaks from this repetitive play and work on something else. More active supervision will be required when there are children with Autism in the classroom. These children will also need adult support to initiate and engage in play with the other children.
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Published by Mary Starr Johnson-Gerard, Ph.D.
I am a Ph.D. Educational Psychologist with over 35 years of experience in the fields of human development, behavior, and learning. I have hands on experiences as well consultative experiences in all areas. I... View profile
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- This articles describes curricum adaptations for a preschool curriculum related to autism.
1 Comments
Post a CommentI thank you so much for these article. It was first thought that my son at Autism in preschool, but because his case is not severe, there were no adaptions made. My hearts goes out to the parents that need these adaptions. I thank you again for all of them.