Teaching the Autistic Homeschooler

by Angie Shiflett

Teaching the autistic child or homeschooler can be quite a challenge. This disorder is considered to be “neurobiological” in nature. When a child experiences autism, the skills that are social, physical, mental, and even those that are directly related to language are often affected. While this condition is most often diagnosed in boys, girls can suffer from the condition as well. If you are a learning coach for your child, and you homeschool your child, you will likely face numerous challenges on a daily basis. However, as disheartening as it may sometimes seem, it is completely possible to be successful in teaching the autistic child.

What Is Autism?

Autism is considered to be one of “Pervasive Developmental Disorders” that impact the ability to properly develop. This is actually a very complex condition that generally comes out in the early years of a child’s life. In cases of autism, the brain of the child does not function appropriately. As a result, it is extremely difficult for the child to communicate appropriately, socialize in an appropriate fashion, and even learn according to the stages of development. Studies have indicated that for every 150 births that occur, there will be at least one child that is diagnosed with autism – although it may not occur until several years after birth.

Teaching Tips

1. If your child is autistic, it is absolutely essential that you obtain teaching tips from the doctor that sees your child on a regular basis. The doctor may even be able to refer your child to a specialist that is noted in working with and tutoring children with autism. Your doctor and any referrals to specialists can prove to be a valuable resource if you are the learning coach of an autistic child.

2. There are many different types of treatment that you can look into that will actually help you teach the autistic homeschooler. Many parents who have autistic children will often pursue speech therapy. There are some cases in which a child does not respond to speech therapy. It is essential, however, that your child is equipped with a method of communication. You may find that pursuing classes and tutoring in sign language is extremely beneficial.

3. If you are a homeschool learning coach, it is important to ensure that you know and understand that there will be come challenges when it comes to the overall behavior of the child that is autistic. You must keep in mind that what is considered to be “socially acceptable” behavior to the majority of individuals may not be interpreted by the autistic child as such. There will be some behaviors that your child experiences that are not acceptable. This is basically part of his developmental difficulties. The child is not purposely misbehaving; they are simply trying to fit into his environment in his own way. You should allow a little room for this.

4. It is important when you teach the autistic homeschooler that you set a schedule. The child should be allowed a regular schedule at all times. If he is not permitted this, it may cause emotional complications and distress. If you sway from the schedule, it should only be small changes at a time. If you fail to do this, you will have a very unhappy child and a very chaotic home.

5. When teaching in a homeschool classroom, it is absolutely essential to ensure that you learn what the learning style of your child is. This will allow you to properly plan lessons according to what is most comfortable to him, and his ability to learn new things. Forcing the autistic child to learn in a way that is not appropriate for him will only cause him to close up and refuse lessons.

Conclusion

While teaching the autistic child is a challenge to parents who elect to homeschool, it is also a very rewarding experience. It is important to remember that your child is an individual with unique talents, skills, and his own personality. By keeping this in mind, you are approaching the learning of the child in a positive and innovative manner.

Biography:
Angie Shiflett is a content specialist that focuses on writing on an assortment of topics. Currently, her passion is homeschooling and education. She has been homeschooling her children through The Connections Academy for two years now. Both her and her husband are able to remain at home with their children in order to educate them. They place a high emphasis on family, and dedication to the importance of a proper education.

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