Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, presents a unique challenge for children when it comes to school. A child may be curious and intelligent, but ASD can still make it more difficult for that child to thrive in the classroom environment. Fortunately, there are effective strategies that adults can use to make it easier for children with ASD to have a positive school experience.

Give the child a schedule. A visual schedule has been shown to have clear benefits for children who have ASD. A visual schedule that a child can take to school provides a guide to everything that will happen during the day, presented in a reassuringly orderly sequence that helps to reduce any stress the child may be feeling. This allows children to initiate each activity on their own, which fosters greater independence.

Make sure the rules are clear. It’s important to take the time to ensure that the child understands the rules of the classroom, and that feedback for rule following and rule breaking are consistent Have a plan for what behaviors will be reinforced, and who will deliver the reinforcement. .

Based in Ventura, STAR of CA provides a range of important services for children and adolescents who have ASD and other developmental disorders. We take an individualized approach to each family to ensure that children with ASD get the effective guidance and care that they deserve. If you would like to learn more, call us today at (805) 644-7827.

Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, is a term that encompasses a number of developmental disorders. This includes disorders that were previously known by other names, such as Asperger syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder. The most common characteristics of ASD are restricted or repetitive behavior and social communication and interaction deficits. Watch this video for a lucid introduction to autism spectrum disorder, including a guide to the spectrum of symptoms that is used to determine how much assistance a child will need.

If you are raising a child who has ASD, STAR of CA can provide you with the guidance and resources you need. We have been providing the Ventura community with capable and compassionate services since 2006. To learn more, call us today at (805) 644-7827.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as many as 1 out of every 45 children may have autism spectrum disorder , or ASD. Detecting and responding to the disorder early in life can make a significant difference for children with ASD, who can benefit significantly from early intervention. These are some of the reasons why early detection of ASD is so important:

Early intervention can help a child’s development. The earliest stages of development are perhaps the most crucial in a person’s life. It’s early in life, after all, that we learn to communicate and interact with others, to perform basic tasks, and to discover our own emotions. Early intervention can help children with ASD at these critical learning stages and help them through the challenges presented by the disorder.

Early intervention can improve a child’s life. Many parents wonder whether their child with ASD will develop basic social skills and be able to lead a happy and productive life. This is entirely possible, but children who have ASD do usually require a different approach to learning. The earlier in life a child with ASD begins receiving the appropriate support and education, the more likely intervention is to be successful.

Early intervention can bring relief to parents. Living with a child who has ASD can be a challenge for many parents, who are understandably concerned about whether they are taking the right approach to raising and teaching their child. Professional intervention by experienced behavioral health professionals can not only help a child, but can also provide much-needed support to the parents.

At STAR of CA , we offer the resources that families and communities need to manage behavioral challenges and mental health needs. We are based in the Ventura area, and our staff is dedicated to ensuring that the children we work with receive the best services possible. Call us at (805) 644-7827 to learn more.