Autism Homeschool Success
Teaching Approaches
Here are some of my favorite teaching approaches for students with autism. I use these strategies as inspiration when I'm working kids and teens on language, communication, and academics. If you're in the Rockwall, Texas area and would like to learn more about how I can work with your child (including a free initial consultation), please look at the links at the top of this page under the sections "Work with Dr. Caldwell" and "Free Programs." Virtual tutoring/homeschool teaching is also available.
1. The Son-Rise Program® from the Autism Treatment Center of America®. I've recently started their online parent training program, and I absolutely love it! This approach to teaching children with autism completely speaks to my heart. It recognizes how wonderful and amazing people with autism are, and uses that love as a gateway to social interaction with your child. It allows you to build learning and social interaction into activities that your child already enjoys. I read the book "Autism Breakthrough" (written about the method) and started using some of the strategies with one of my students. I loved the results and I'm so excited to be taking the full online training program. Just as a disclaimer, I'm not certified in this method, I'm just taking the parent training online course. I wouldn't say that I provide this program to my students (as I'm not trained and certified to do so), but the overall method influences my teaching style.
2. Pivotal Response Treatment® (PRT). PRT is considered a play-based and child-directed application of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). If you aren't a fan of traditional ABA, you might find this approach more of interest, as it is a child-centered approach. With PRT, you can use your child's favorite toys and activities as tools for teaching language, communication, academics, and other skills. PRT is designed to make learning motivating and meaningful to children (so they learn skills that are important to them), and I consider it a highly effective teaching method. You can learn more about PRT from the Koegel Autism Consultants and the amazing books, "The PRT Pocket Guide" and "Overcoming Autism" - not a fan of the title, but most of the strategies are good. There a few that I don't particularly like, so if you feel the same, just use the ones you think will be helpful and empowering for your child. I currently have a level 1 certification in this approach and am working on level 2.
3. Video Modeling and Visual Supports. Since many students with autism are visual learners, using video to teach new skills and behaviors is a great tool! Other tools in this area include picture schedules, color-coding, and other strategies that support visual learners. I'll be sharing more about visual learning strategies on my blog.
4. Using Student Interests to Teach. This is probably my favorite and most frequently used teaching approach. I love to make customized lessons, activities, and curriculum for my students. I'll often plan the activities to include whatever they're interested in. You can find some of my ideas and examples (along with free printable activities) on my blog.
As a general rule, I always recommended looking at the research support for any approach you're considering. Ask the provider about that, and they should be happy to share.
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