How Do You Discipline A Child With Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorders, commonly known as ASD, affect approximately 1 in 150 people and the diagnosis is increasing annually. Autistic disorders range from mild to severe on the spectrum. As more children with autism are diagnosed and enter school, parents and educators will need additional information and training on how to manage the challenging behaviors that are characteristic of ASD. Some of the symptoms of ASD include extreme rigidity, poor social skills, impairment in non-verbal communication, engagement in restrictive patterns of behavior and/or preoccupation with objects of limited interest to others. Intense behaviors, such as temper tantrums or rage episodes typically occur with the disorder. Interventions and patterns of discipline that are specific to the autistic child have been identified as effective across multiple settings. Use direct verbal messages in a calm, neutral tone of voice. Say the child’s name and give short, simple commands without the opportunity for c
