AUTISM & AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS

Autism is a neural development disorder shown by difficulties with social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering how nerve cells and their synapses connect and organize; how this occurs is not well understood.

As a leader, working with scouts with autism can be challenging since one of its main difficulties is communication. Finding a method for reaching a scout is important. The parents are the best resource for learning this.

EFFECTIVE TECHNIQUES

While there is no direct solution to how to best work with a scout with autism, there are some general issues and recommendations:

•  People with this condition can have trouble with new ideas and activities and transitioning (changing from one activity to another).

•  Let the scout know the list of activities in advance and what is expected of him.

•  Give plenty of time for activities and to transition.

•  Keep directions simple. Break down the activity into smaller steps.

•  A visual map of steps or activities can help.

•  Get the scout a buddy

•  To get the scout’s attention, find out what his interests are and try to incorporate some of these into the activities.

•  Activities/goals can be modified to avoid frustration

• Try different methods of communication (Written, pictorial, verbal, demonstrate). One may work better than another.

• Avoid sensory overload (too many things going on at once)

Most importantly, since the way this disorder manifests can be so varied, talk with the scout and their family to find out the most effective teaching methods (including how best to diffuse bad behaviors, triggers for bad behavior, and methods that work at home and school).