Empowering Autistic Pupils At School And Beyond

Wouldn’t the world be boring if everyone was exactly the same? People experience the world differently, and have their own unique perspective on things. This variation helps some amazing discoveries and achievements to be made. Cali & Caro celebrates those who think and see the world differently.

Students with autism don’t always have the easiest time in education and beyond. Mainstream schools can struggle to be equipped to include autistic pupils in lessons, and support their learning in the best way. 

With a good understanding of ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder), and the recognition that different does not mean deficient, autistic students can have a brilliant time at school and in life.

What Is Autism?

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is one of the most common developmental conditions. Because ASD effects the way a person’s brain develops, they process information and experience the world differently. These differences can result in challenges involving communication, social interactions, and behavior.

Since autism is a spectrum, neurological differences, and the challenges created as a result, can range from severe to mild. Depending on where a person with ASD is on the spectrum, every day tasks can become much more complicated. There are conditions that sit within this spectrum, including Asperger’s and pervasive developmental disorder.

There is no “cure” for autism. However, at Cali & Caro, we believe different brains should be celebrated and supported. With therapy and early intervention, kids with autism can develop their skills and abilities. Every child is different, and this is the same for those with ASD. This means that every child will need different support and assistance, and their unique potential recognized and nurtured.

Challenges at School with ASD

For kids with autism, school can present a number of challenges. Whilst some children may need to be educated in specialist schools, many autistic pupils can join in lessons in mainstream schools, with the right support in place. Choosing which type of school an autistic child is in means making a number of important considerations.

Some of the challenges autistic pupils can face at school include:

  • Sensitivity to noise, lights, and crowded areas

  • Difficulty speaking 

  • Interacting socially, an interpreting other people

  • Missing lessons to go to therapy or doctors visits

  • Requiring separate setting in order to take tests/sit exams

  • Needing extra time to complete tasks

  • Bullying, and issues with confidence and anxiety

Some of the above points may not sound too much like challenges or problems. But, if a school or teacher isn’t equipped to provide things like extra time or a separate space, autistic pupils can struggle to focus or learn comfortably. 

ASD comes with a number of sensory challenges, and also means that kids enjoy learning in different ways to some neurotypical students. Reading and writing can be difficult with autism, so having visuals and interactive learning activities incorporated into lessons can be incredibly beneficial.

Being given a consistent routine, with structured activities, can help to empower autistic pupils to develop and learn along with their classmates.

Creating an ASD-Friendly Classroom

In order for autistic pupils to feel confident and supported, accommodations can be made at school by teachers and educators. A great teacher knows that giving students options when it comes to types of learning results in a happier class. Activities that engage different senses are more likely to resonate with autistic pupils, and help them to process and store information better.

Clear instructions also help children with autism to understand what is expected or required of them at school. Teachers should be literal with what they say, since ASD can cause difficulty in interpreting meaning. It’s best to avoid sarcasm, metaphors or idioms, to minimize any confusion or frustration.

A classroom can be made autism-friendly by keeping the environment calm. Not only will a calm environment be better for the whole class, but autistic pupils will be less distracted or distressed. Keeping focused and concentrating on schoolwork can be hard when there is lots of noise, movement, or chaos in the classroom.

Empowering Autistic Pupils 

The best way to empower autistic children, both in school and everyday life, is to promote an inclusive mindset, and support them to feel like they belong.

Strategies should be used to help autistic pupils being abandoned in their “own world”, and bring them into the wider class or group. Instead of viewing ASD as a deficit or problem, it should be treated as a difference and each child’s uniqueness celebrated.

Cali & Caro champions neurodivergent students, and aims to empower autistic pupils in school and beyond, by providing specially designed stationery, gifts, and school supplies. A beautifully designed notebook, or interestingly colored pens, can help students with ASD to engage in activities more easily, and feel valued and supported.

We offer a great range of autism-friendly products, with even more exciting items on the way! Check out our online shop now to discover awesome products that will help kids to love school and work! 

Saima Omar