by Alan Haskvitz

Teaching is never easy, but it can also be greatly rewarding. We are all familiar with “touching the future” and Chicken Soup for the Soul stories.  But what is behind them is the daily battle teachers face doing whatever is humanly possible to guide our charges into a society that has high expectations. Thus when students with Autism show up, it offers us more of a challenge and the real chance to create a more rewarding life for a youngster. With that in mind, we’ve provided some valuable links and related information.
Autism is a brain disorder that impairs the ability to communicate, socialize and maintain normal relationships with others. Those with autism may have a varied level of skills, capacities and behaviors. The cause of Autism is not understood at this time although medications are prescribed to relieve symptoms. As such, the teacher needs to treat every student diagnosed autistic as a distinct individual, take time to read reports, and be aware of any medications and possible side effects.
The following sites can provide valuable ideas and help.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in the Real World
An interesting method of dealing with students who have not done well

Autism and Asperger Syndrome

Autism and PDD Support Network
General link mainly for parents

Autism Awareness: Recommendations for Teacher Preparation and Professional Development

Autism in the Classroom

Autism in the Classroom Group
A Yahoo Group -- not much action, but nearly 300 members that might have some answers and ideas

Autism Society of America

Autism Society of America Individualized Education Plan

Autism: Teacher Developed System of Least Prompts Example
A very interesting slide show presenting examples of how simplification can lead to better results in working with autistics

Autism Today Links

Children with Autism: One Teacher's Experience
An online documentary about a class of children with Autism

Cindy’s Autistic Support
Link site

Get Help Teaching Special Needs Students

How do Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapists Motivate Children with Autism?
Some ideas on motivating autistic students during therapy

Instructing Autism
Links and ideas

Positively Autism

PositivelyAutism Blog

REC Special Education General Links

Sites for Autistic Support Teachers
Great link site with many valuable resources for teachers on dealing with students that have autism

Stonington Schools Autism Resources
One school district’s resources that includes observations and forms

Teaching a Student with Autism: First Steps

Tips for Teachers

Teaching Tips for Children and Adults with Autism

Vital Supports for Autistic Students