SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY NEWSLETTER

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1 APRIL IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH Did you know that 1 in 94 Canadians are diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder?. Each person with Autism is unique and the symptoms can be mild to severe, which is why Autism is described in terms of a continuum or spectrum. The diagnosis of Autism is constantly developing as more is learned about this disorder. However, the key characteristics are: CHALLENGES IN SOCIAL INTERACTION This can range from a complete lack of desire to interact with others to awkwardness or odd social interactions. There is often an inability to see things from the other person s perspective. COMMUNICATION DIFFICULTIES Spoken language may not develop at all. There is often a lack of desire to communicate. For those who learn language there may be repetitive or stereotypical language, or language may only be used in restricted ways (such as getting needs met). Understanding and using non-verbal communication (such as eye contact) is also challenging for people with autism RESTRICTED AND REPETITIVE PATTERNS OF BEHAVIOUR Children with autism usually have a narrow range of interests and can engage in repetitive and stereotyped body movements. There is often a lack of imaginative play. HOW CAN AN SLP SUPPORT A CHILD WITH AUTISM? Speech and Language therapy can help a child with challenges in receptive language (understanding), expressive language (through speech or use of signs/symbols) and social interaction and communication. An SLP can provide a comprehensive assessment and from this can set an individualised therapy plan

2 HOW CAN AN SLP SUPPORT A CHILD WITH AUTISM...CONT D This may include the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or methods for those with little or no verbal speech. Goals may include: developing conversation skills (initiating, listening, turn-taking, eye-contact), understanding words/sentence (especially figurative language), developing grammatical skills (such as pronoun use), and articulation and fluency if needed. TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH A CHILD WITH AUTISM Be patient and understanding. Communication may be difficult for a person with autism. Give them time to follow and respond to you. Don t expect eye contact. People with autism can often listen better if they do not look at the person who is talking. Keep your language simple. Use keywords when possible. Use more direct language e.g. put your shoes in the basket is clearer than can you put your shoes away please? Visual schedules at home or in the classroom can help your child with understanding of language and routines. Signs and symbols can be used to supplement spoken language. Avoid figurative language which will probably be interpreted literally e.g. I feel under the weather or he is a pig

3 BOOK OF THE MONTH I See Things Differently: A First Look at Autism - Pat Thomas This book is written by psychotherapist and counsellor Pat Thomas. It will help children understand what autism is and how it affects a person who has it. Good for siblings and classmates to better understand the differences in someone with autism and how they can best help. PHOTO OF THE MONTH From left to right: Rebecca, Steve, Krista, Sarah, Kim and Dana showing their support for Autism Awareness month by wearing blue

4 FEATURED VIDEO April 2 - AUTISM DAY View our video at... to learn more information about Autism and how SLP can help. Click here to see video. FREEBIE OF THE MONTH VISUAL SCHEDULE Turn to page 5 to view and use the visual schedule OR Visit our Pinterest page (Anderson Speech Consultants) for an online version. CONNECT WITH US STAY CONNECTED /ANDERSON SPEECH CONSULTANTS /ANDERSON SPEECH CONSULTANTS - 4 -

5 FREEBIE OF THE MONTH VISUAL SCHEDULE Cut out the activity pictures and using Velcro place them in the correct order of the day. As each activity is completed encourage the child to remove the picture. Add or remove stages depending on the child s level (some may only manage 2 steps, others could do 8 steps). You can make extra activity symbols according to the child s schedule clipart pictures or photographs can be used. VISIT OUR PINTEREST PAGE - ANDERSON SPEECH CONSULTANTS - FOR AN ONLINE VERSION