Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often struggle with learning new skills or behaviors, especially when these behaviors are complex or have multiple components. Task analysis (TA) can be used to help break down and teach these chained behaviors. Chained behaviors are behaviors or skills which consist of multiple steps such as tying…

Video self-modeling is a powerful intervention that uses carefully planned and edited videos of self-imaging so students can view themselves performing a task, skill, or behavior at mastery. More than 45 years of research supports the efficacy of video self-modeling across an array of behaviors and disabilities, including: (1) Dysfluent speech;…

This practical resource is brimming with ideas and guidance for using simple ideas from speech and language pathology and occupational therapy to boost communication, sensory integration, and coordination skills in children on the autism spectrum. Suitable for use in the classroom, at home, and in community settings, it is packed with…

Professionals who work with young adults will get hard-to-find information on how specific social, behavioral, and cognitive characteristics of people with autism affect the transition to adulthood, exploring potential challenges and traits that can be powerful assets. Compelling stories throughout this book illustrate how successful transition…

There is a national movement underway to assist teachers in connecting the ideas and practices found in multicultural, general, and special education (Sobel & Taylor, 2006, p.29). In particular, educators are seeking innovative ways to implements general education practices with students with low incidence disabilities. This article describes the…

Video modeling (VM) is one of the strategies that may help teachers increase appropriate behaviors among children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Children with ASD exhibit deficits in the areas of communication, socialization, behavior, and other life skills. Teachers need strategies that are evidence-based to improve these skills in…

The curriculum guide presents activity suggestions for teachers to use with autistic students in grades K-12. Brief remarks are offered on placement criteria, student characteristics, and parent participation. Goals, objectives, procedures, materials, domain areas, and evaluation approaches are listed for eight skill areas: (1) pre-vocational…

Children with autism cannot be taught independent and responsible behavior in the way that most "sociable" children are taught, due to their deficits in social interaction and communication. Children with autism must first build trust in order to feel secure and to be able to concentrate on learning new skills and behaviors. Environmental supports…

The transition from school to adulthood is a pivotal time in the lives of all students. For a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), change of any kind can be challenging. A transition as momentous as this can seem daunting indeed. Thoughtful planning, good information, and open communication will help parents work with their young adult and…

In the education of individuals with autism, it is crucial that programming focuses on developing a repertoire of lifetime skills. Information on an individual's strengths to use in educational planning can be gathered from standardized instruments, from observation in natural settings, and from interviews. It should be kept in mind that the…