Never allow any diagnosis to define who you are...Jerry Komar, editor, Autism News and Views
How To Support People With Autism?
That question is often asked when any parent, teacher, advocate, etc. is faced with supporting and serving an individual or individuals with autism. The following will help answer that question:
The iSTAR Program: University of Utah
The iSTAR program at the University of Utah developed a unique program to help children with autism. In short, they teach them how to use computers for 3-D modeling.
Using SketchUp, a free downloadable design program, helps children display their spatial-visual strengths. The program allows students to create3-D models of their own individual design. In fact, the instructors do not give the students a lot of direction. They simply facilitate the process by showing students how to use the tools.
The ultimate goals is to help the students develop their computer skills. "All this builds up competency, mastery and a feeling of being able to shine..," said Scott Wright of the interdisciplinary team.
Can Do Canines
Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs.
Service areas include Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Minnesota and parts of Illinois.
Can Do Canines can be contacted at 763.331.3000
How To Support People With Autism?
That question is often asked when any parent, teacher, advocate, etc. is faced with supporting and serving an individual or individuals with autism. The following will help answer that question:
- Explain at every stage what you are about to do, what will happen next and why.
- Give the individual enough time to understand the information you are sharing. Wait for a response if you do not get one immediately.
- Questions must be clear and direct using language that is easy to understand. Use photos and/or pictures when needed.
- People with autism will often take what you say literally. Be careful with words that have double meanings. Be careful with using humor.
- Maintain a routine.
- Repetitive behaviors may be coping mechanisms.
- People with autism are particularly sensitive to their environment such as lighting, sounds, smell and touch.
- Try to keep the immediate environment as calming as you can.
- Always ask the person/parent or advocate what support they might need.
The iSTAR Program: University of Utah
The iSTAR program at the University of Utah developed a unique program to help children with autism. In short, they teach them how to use computers for 3-D modeling.
Using SketchUp, a free downloadable design program, helps children display their spatial-visual strengths. The program allows students to create3-D models of their own individual design. In fact, the instructors do not give the students a lot of direction. They simply facilitate the process by showing students how to use the tools.
The ultimate goals is to help the students develop their computer skills. "All this builds up competency, mastery and a feeling of being able to shine..," said Scott Wright of the interdisciplinary team.
Can Do Canines
Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs.
Service areas include Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Minnesota and parts of Illinois.
Can Do Canines can be contacted at 763.331.3000
