Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-17-2019 12:23 AM
    Hi everyone, I am working with the age group of 3 to 4 years old. recently I got a child in my room with autism and challenging behavior. I am looking for some advise managing the inclusive classroom with 10 children.

    Please, I am feeling very exhausted because some of the children in my room are new and never been to daycare.

    Thanks in advance

    --
    Nasima Junejo


  • 2.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-18-2019 09:32 AM
    Visual Schedules are helpful.  Children with Autism are very sensitive to stimulating environments.  A room or area that is specific for calming is most helpful.  Sensory activities that help the child focus - deep pressure, brushing, wrapping in a blanket, kind of depends on what the child prefers.  There is a cause for the behavior - try to find the cause and deal with that to help eliminate the behaviors.  If the child is non-verbal, use a picture exchange system, sign language, or assistive technology device to help the child learn to communicate with you.   I've been working with children with Autism for the last 20 years. It is hard to give general information for a child with Autism - each child is different, there is no one size fits all solution for kids with Autism, but those are some general ideas.   If you have specific concerns, you can contact me with those - mgrant@basinschools.net.

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    Mindi Grant
    Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
    Basin School District
    Boise ID
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  • 3.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-23-2019 08:55 AM
    Good morning!
    There is no black and white when it comes to a child with autism. I can speak as an educator (over 30 years in the field) and as an aunt of a young man with autism. It has always helped me to remember- behavior is communication. You'll need to do some digging. Is there someone who you can consult with and can support you as you put your protocol into place? If you can get some extra hands in your room do it. Remember to include your support staff in any training you may get to support your kiddo with autism, as you need to both be on the same page. Consistency and predictability are very, very important to success!
    As for the other children in your room, this is a great opportunity to teach them compassion, acceptance and leadership. They will reflect the relationship you model for them.  
    Good luck. This will not happen over night and you will often be exhausted, but wow will you feel good as everything starts to fall in place and take shape!

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    Nan Heer
    Ames IA
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  • 4.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-23-2019 12:29 PM
    Exactly Nan!  That is a phrase I use in my trainings as well:  behavior is communication.  We need to be detectives to figure out what a child is communicating through their behavior.


    Joanie Calem
    Sing Along
    Folk Music for All
    joaniecalem@gmail.com
    www.joaniecalem.com





  • 5.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-19-2019 01:03 AM
    I have some knowledge with autism but curious what "challenging behaviors" mean.  Is it the child won't sit for group?  They won't come to group?  Fleeing the classroom?  Destroying things?  If you had some specific reoccurring situations I'd love to share.

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    Cindy Johnson
    Flex Employee
    US Army MWR
    El Paso TX
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  • 6.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-21-2019 11:27 PM
    Likewise, I have a lot of background with including children with autism into neuro-typical classroom, but every child with autism is different and has different needs and different triggers and therefore different behaviors.  Can you describe some of what you are observing in the classroom?  What kind of behavior does this child have?

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    Joanie Calem
    Columbus OH
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  • 7.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-24-2019 08:27 AM
    Nasima, I have had several kids under my care with autism.  However, every child is different and have different needs.  If you are struggling, you can always ask for help to the child care services.  They can send you someone to guide you and observe the child.  They give you some ideas and inputs.  Also, in which state are you located?  Here in Indiana, the State provides help for parents with autistic kids and there are several schools where the kids attend.  They help them develop social and academic skills. As a teacher is hard to just dedicate your time to one child but, it depends on the level of autism.  Autistic kids sometimes are very sweet and you just have to learn what will make them react and get to know their triggers so you can anticipate your actions.  
    Being a teacher for so many years have taught me that, it is not easy sometimes but, every child is like a seed and we are in charge of making them grow and flourish. 
    I wish you the best and, don't feel lonely, ask for help if needed. 
    Hope this helps a little  hugs to you.

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    Virginia Rodriguez
    Director/Owner
    Pasitos, Inc.
    Carmel IN
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  • 8.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-24-2019 10:10 AM
    hi everyone thanks for reply and personal messages. you all gave me very good advice. I got an extra staff for support and I am working on his IEP plan. Things are not fast but in process. the boy was in my room last weekend  showed interest in sensory stuff like water, sand, beads, play dough . if you guys would like to suggest some sensory stuff that would be great. Thanks

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    Nasima Junejo
    Grand Prairie Regional College
    Camrose AB
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  • 9.  RE: autistic child with challenging behavior

    Posted 07-24-2019 11:17 AM
    It's wonderful to hear you're getting some help! The sensory options are endless. Never discount anything. I've seen Koosh balls to a favorite bottle cap interest, motivate and comfort kids. I would suggest you do a preference assessment to get started. Electronic toys that give quick feed back have been popular. I usually keep a stash of interesting items available...squishy balls, small fans, light up sticks, favorite animals (soft and plastic), small books. Anything that fits in his hand for small/large group time and transitions.  A small plastic shoebox with magic sand, enough water or slime to cover the bottom of the box, has been easy to use and pull out quickly. The Target dollar bin is a great place tp pick things up. Happy meal toys have been popular.  Once you figure out what his favorite are; music, letters, numbers, book, TV or movie characters you'll be able to get his attention. I know this is a crazy, busy time for you. Hang in there!

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    Nan Heer
    Ames IA
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