For children with autism who have limited expressive language, it can be very frustrating when they are unable to communicate their wants, needs, thoughts and ideas to others, verbally. This is especially true when out on the playground, when children are faced with making choices and decisions as to what do/where to play next.

Ever since I entered the teaching profession, I have loved file folder games. Why? Because they're simple, effective, and very inexpensive to make! Also, good file folder games are visually appealing, hands-on and interactive, have a clear and understandable task, and have a clear beginning, middle and end. Plus, file folder games teach children how to work independently, which can be a challenge for some children living with autism (and many who are not!).

"I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen."
-Ernest Hemingway

10:32 AM - August 1st, 2006 - my son, Noah, was born into this world. And it was, by far, the greatest - and the most special - day of my life. Those pictures in my mind remain so vivid.
Oh, god, please let them forever remain vivid.
I was a new father on this day, so I guess it was only natural to have some reservations of how I'd be as a dad. My beautiful wife, Kimberly, however - well, I had absolutely no reservations about how she'd be as a new mom. And, with each passing day, she continues to amaze and inspire me.
And, oh how much she's taught me.

A few weeks ago, I added a post on creating a visual activity calendar for your child. Along those lines, you can also create a portable visual calendar for the same purpose.

If you have a child with ASD, going out in the community may present with its own set of challenges. Sure, some trips may be easier than others, such as running to pick up one or two things from the supermarket, but what about trips to the doctor, to the dentist, or to other places where there may be a significant wait time before being seen? How do you keep your child actively engaged during these times? Depending on the needs of your child, a simple 10 or 15 minute wait may feel more like an hour or more, especially when you've exhausted every option!

When I first entered the teaching profession, I was ready to take on the world. A young and enthusiastic 22-year-old, I was eager to learn from professionals who shared my world view of what a teacher should be. Successfully including children with special needs with their non-disabled counterparts was my passion, and I was determined to provide every child with that opportunity.

In many cases, children with autism are strong visual learners. Therefore. it makes sense that children with autism are more likely to thrive in their environment when provided with consistent visual supports. Visual supports (e.g., pictures, symbols, etc.) provide children with a routine and predictability, which helps them make sense of the world around them. This, in turn, helps them feel safe and secure.

Here’s an idea you can implement for children who need an extra visual to help them know where stand and stop when giving them a direction. For example, when asking your child/student to wait for you at the door, does he/she follow this direction without the need for visual cues? If so, great! If not, try coupling the auditory direction with a visual for greater clarity. (See pictures below for examples.)
Again, here’s another idea that’s simple and easy to make!
What You’ll Need
1. Cutouts of your child’s/student’s feet

Growing up in special education, I endured what felt like endless years of bullying. I've been called names, tossed in lockers and closets, and had my head shoved in toilets. I've been kicked, tripped, spat on, and had gum slapped on my head I can't tell you how many times, only for my friend to cut it out with a pocket knife. And, yes, that hurt.