How does autism affect learning?
- Kids with autism have issues discerning nonverbal communication/social cues.
- Facial expressions
- Changes in tone (ex: irritated voice vs happy one)
- Hand gestures
- Sensory issues – Students get overwhelmed by what they touch, smell, taste, hear, and
see. - Speech/language disorders can make it hard to communicate with others.
How does Down syndrome affect learning?
- A short attention span.
- Trouble communicating effectively with teachers and classmates.
- Intellectual delays.
- Trouble memorizing information.
- Trouble retaining information.
How can autistic students be accommodated educationally?
- Teachers and parents can help teach autistic students social cues.
- Teachers can incorporate interactive and interesting activities in their lesson plans.
- Teachers can try to eliminate as many distractions as possible in the classroom.
- Teachers can demonstrate how to perform certain tasks and problems.
How can students with Down syndrome be accommodated educationally?
- Teachers should use lessons that take advantage of the student’s five senses – touch,
taste, hearing, smell, sight. - Teachers can use visual aids during lessons.
- Teachers should be clear and kind when delivering directions, establishing trusting
relationships also helps a student’s learning. - Set goals with students and congratulate them when they achieve it
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