Autism Acceptance Week is a time to raise awareness, understanding and acceptance of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Throughout April and for the rest of the year it’s important to ensure that every child, young person and adult with autism feels empowered and included in any setting.
Schools are required to promote diversity in the classroom and accommodate every child’s needs to ensure every student feels celebrated and included. By celebrating neurodiversity and promoting inclusivity in schools, Teachers and school staff can break down misconceptions and become an advocate and an ally for people with autism, to create a more inclusive environment for future generations.
Discover 5 key tips to help you understand autism behaviours and ensure inclusivity beyond Autism Acceptance Week in this guide from recruitment agency Spencer Clarke Group.
What is autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people communicate, interact socially and behave and can potentially impact learning, sensory processing and overall well-being.
Autism or ASD refers to a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours and mental health. Autism exists on a spectrum and can affect speech and communication, body language and emotions.
It’s important to understand that autism is a spectrum, which means that behaviours, traits and abilities can vary widely among individuals. There are different presentations of Autism from Kanner's syndrome to Asperger's syndrome which are on opposite sides of the spectrum.
How to understand autism behaviours
5 key tips to better understand autism behaviours during Autism Acceptance Week:
- Recognise diversity.
- Understand sensory sensitivities.
- Be aware of communication differences.
- Focus on strengths.
- Promote peer understanding.
Recognise diversity
Just as no two students are the same, no two people with autism are the same, therefore it is important to recognise the diversity of the autism spectrum and to approach autism behaviours with an open mind.
It’s important to avoid oversimplifying or generalising behaviours and instead to identify social preferences and behaviours.
Remember to use clear and concise language and be mindful of individuals with autism’s sensory preferences and communication style. Address him or her as you would any other student and take the time to understand their needs and how their behaviours can manifest.
Understand sensory sensitivities
Children are exposed to constant stimulation and sensory experiences which means it is crucial for school staff to create an environment that is inclusive and supportive of individuals with autism. Many students with autism or SEND experience sensory processing differences such as sight, sound, touch, smell and taste.
Children with autism are more likely to experience hyper and hypo-sensitivities, which can make certain sounds, lights and textures overwhelming, stressful or comfortable. The way a student reacts to different senses or sensory overload is a coping mechanism for navigating or tolerating feelings of overwhelm. A child’s sensory reaction or behaviour can be misunderstood by others and seen as intentional or disruptive for the rest of the class.
Be mindful of sensory sensitivities and consider offering sensory breaks or quiet spaces for students who may need them. This gives students the time and space to recalibrate their emotions and senses as well as regain their confidence.
Be aware of communication differences
Autistic people may find it hard to communicate and interact with other people and understand how others think or feel. Communication can look different for individuals on the autism spectrum and it’s important to give students with autism the time and space to express themselves in their own way.
Some children and young people with autism may be non-verbal, have delayed speech or have difficulty communicating in social settings, while others may have advanced communication skills. Having communication differences shouldn’t make pupils feel isolated or excluded, which is why it’s important to teach all children about different communication styles.
Consider alternative methods of communication such as sign language, communication boards or technology-assisted communication devices to ensure that every student feels included, understood and respected.
Foster better understanding and improve engagement with children on the autism spectrum by listening, being patient and giving them time to answer.
Focus on strengths
Teachers and school staff should strive to be supportive of all students, encouraging them to be themselves and to thrive both academically and personally. When it comes to being inclusive and understanding autism behaviours, it’s important not to view autism as a weakness or as a challenge, but as a strength.
Autistic people may display a range of strengths and abilities that can be directly related to their diagnosis including hyperfocus, creativity, attention to detail, honesty and a strong sense of justice. Many individuals with autism are experts in their favourite topics and have exceptional skills in areas like maths, arts and music.
Autism Acceptance Week provides a great opportunity to focus on the strengths and talents of individuals with autism which can boost their self-esteem and confidence. Rather than focusing on challenges or limitations, Teachers can change the narrative and highlight the interests and celebrate the talents of students on the spectrum.
By identifying your students interests and focusing on what they excel at, Teachers give them the opportunity to feel included and also to thrive in their learning environment.
Promote peer understanding
It’s not just Teachers and school staff who need to better understand autism behaviours in the classroom, it’s important for all students to be aware of the different ways people experience the world.
Understanding autism behaviours requires teaching staff to alter their approach and to be patient and compassionate with students. As leaders of education, they need to be able to understand the behaviours of all their students, not just those with autism or specific needs.
It’s also important for Teachers to create an inclusive atmosphere, one that ensures all students are aware of other people’s needs, preferences and learning abilities. That means educating students and having conversations in the classroom about acceptance to allow all students to offer their unique perspectives.
Raising awareness and understanding among all students helps build empathy and can reduce the risk of bullying or isolation. Creating an atmosphere where individuals with autism feel understood and supported can help improve their behaviour and make them feel more relaxed and confident.
Teachers can host activities or lessons that educate students about autism. Showcasing the diverse talents of all students in the classroom is a great way to encourage and promote better understanding and inclusivity.
To further enhance this inclusive atmosphere, it's crucial that everyone upskills themselves with awareness and understanding of neurodiversity. By broadening our knowledge and empathy, we can ensure that inclusivity extends beyond the classroom and into every aspect of our community. Active Lancashire offers an online training platform, Active Lancashire Learning Zone, where individuals can access resources and courses designed to enhance their understanding of autism and other neurodiverse conditions. This collective effort in upskilling will help create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for all.
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Spencer Clarke Group is a specialist education recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Operating nationwide, they help schools to find experienced teaching and support staff on a daily, temporary, temp-perm or permanent basis.
After growing exponentially since they launched in 2017, Spencer Clarke Group was named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the 2024 Recruiter Awards
