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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. It is referred to as a "spectrum" because the symptoms and their severity can vary greatly from one individual to another. People with ASD may have difficulties with social communication, including understanding social cues, developing relationships, and engaging in typical conversation. Additionally, they may exhibit repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and heightened sensitivities to sensory stimuli (such as light, sound, or touch).

The exact cause of autism is still under investigation, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes by providing tailored support and accommodations.

Acronym: Autism Spectrum Disorder is commonly abbreviated as ASD.

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According to Cara Falade, M.A., CCC-SLP, the puzzle piece symbol was first introduced by the National Autism Society in the UK in 1963 to signify autism spectrum disorder. The interconnected pieces symbolize the mysteries surrounding autism. The various colors of the puzzle pieces illustrate the wide range of diversity within the autism spectrum.

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Social Communication Difficulties

Difficulty with back-and-forth conversations.

Challenges in understanding non-verbal communication (ex. facial expressions, gestures).

Limited understanding of social cues and norms.

Restricted & Repetitive Behaviors

Repetitive movements or speech (ex. hand-flapping, echolalia).

Insistence on sameness (ex. rigid routines).

Highly focused interests in specific subjects.

Sensory Sensitivities

Overreacting or underreacting to sensory stimuli (e.g., lights, sounds, textures).

Varied Intellectual Abilities

Some individuals have intellectual disabilities, while others may have above-average intelligence.

Delayed or Atypical Language Development

Some individuals may not speak at all, while others may develop language at a slower pace or use language in unusual ways.

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is diagnosed through a combination of developmental screenings, comprehensive evaluations, and medical assessments conducted by a team of specialists such as pediatricians, psychologists, and speech-language pathologists. The diagnosis process typically involves:

Developmental Screenings: Tools like the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) are used to identify early signs of ASD in young children (CDC, 2024).

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluations: A detailed assessment including medical history, behavioral observations, and parent interviews is conducted to confirm a diagnosis.

Standardized Assessments:

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) –A structured assessment that evaluates communication, social interaction, and play.

Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) –

A parent interview focused on developmental history and autism-related behaviors.

DSM-5 Criteria: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides specific criteria used to diagnose ASD based on persistent challenges in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

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Students with ASD receive educational services based on their individual needs, often through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (U.S. Department of Education, 2024). Placement options include:

Inclusive Classrooms – Many students with ASD are educated in general education classrooms with accommodations such as visual supports, sensory breaks, and classroom aides.

Self-Contained Classrooms – Some students, especially those with higher support needs, may be placed in smaller, specialized classrooms with individualized instruction.

Specialized Schools & Therapy-Based Settings – In cases where a student requires intensive intervention, specialized schools or autism-focused programs may be recommended.

Related Services – Students often receive additional support such as speech therapy, occupational therapy (OT), and applied behavior analysis (ABA) to develop communication, motor, and social skills.

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1. Visual Supports

Use visual schedules, charts, and written instructions to aid comprehension and reduce uncertainty.

Implement picture exchange communication systems (PECS) or visual timers to support transitions and expectations.

2. Structured Routines

Maintain a predictable schedule with minimal unexpected changes.

Provide advance warnings for transitions to ease anxiety.

3. Breaking Tasks into Smaller Steps

Use task analysis to divide assignments into manageable steps.

Provide checklists or color-coded guides to help students stay on track.

4. Use of Assistive Technology

Tablets and text-to-speech apps support communication and literacy.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices assist nonverbal students.

Noise-canceling headphones help minimize sensory overload.

5. Modified Instruction

Offer one-on-one instruction or small-group learning opportunities.

Incorporate peer tutoring to build social and academic skills.

Use flexible seating or sensory-friendly workspaces to accommodate different learning preferences.

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Behavior Management and Social Strategies: Adaptations & Accomodations

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Behavior Management and Social Strategies: Adaptations & Accomodations

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1. Social Skills Training

Programs that explicitly teach communication, empathy, and peer interaction skills.

Role-playing and social stories help students navigate common social scenarios.

2. Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSP)

Individualized interventions designed to reduce challenging behaviors and promote positive behaviors.

Strategies include reinforcement systems (ex. token economies) and functional behavior assessments (FBA) to understand triggers.

3. Peer-Mediated Interventions

Peers are trained to engage with and support students with ASD in social situations.

Encourages modeling of appropriate behaviors and facilitates social inclusion.

4. Environmental Modifications

Reduce sensory overload by providing quiet areas, noise-canceling headphones, or dimmable lighting.

Flexible seating and structured classroom layouts help create a low-stimulation environment.

5. Use of Visual Prompts for Social Expectations

Clear, visual supports (ex. picture-based “how to” guides) for expected social behaviors.

Visual reminders for greetings, turn-taking, and classroom rules support independence in social interactions.

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National:

The Autism Society of America: The Autism Society is a national organization offering support, information, and resources for families of children with autism. They also advocate for policies and services that benefit individuals with autism.

Website: Autism Society of America

State:

ECAC: ECAC provides resources, training, and support to parents of children with disabilities in North Carolina. They assist parents in navigating special education services and understanding the legal rights of children with disabilities.

Website: ECAC

Local:

ECU TEACCH Autism Program: Located at East Carolina University in Greenville, the ECU TEACCH Autism Program offers diagnostic assessments, behavioral intervention services, and training programs for parents, educators, and professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum. They provide services for both children and adults with ASD, including educational programs and community-based services.

Website: TEACCH

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National:

Autism Speaks: Offers resources, toolkits, and educational programs for teachers and professionals working with children on the autism spectrum.
Website: Autism Speaks

State:

The Autism Society of North Carolina: Provides training, local support, and resources for teachers, including specialized workshops for teachers working with students with autism.
Website: ASNC

Local:

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction: Provides guidelines for teaching students with autism, IEP resources, and specific instructional strategies for educators.

Website: NCDPI

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American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC.

Autism Speaks. (n.d.). What is autism? Autism Speaks.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Screening and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Autism Spectrum Disorder and Education. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. (n.d.). Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in North Carolina schools. North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

Smith, D., Tyler, N. & Skow, K. (2018). Introduction to Contemporary Special Education: New Horizons.

The Autism Society of North Carolina. (n.d.). Supporting individuals with autism in North Carolina. Autism Society of North Carolina.

U.S. Department of Education. (2024). Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). U.S. Department of Education.

U.S. Department of Education. (2024). Supporting students with autism in general education settings. U.S. Department of Education.