A psychologist specialized in autism shares six concrete measures for schools. From teacher training to reducing language barriers, she demonstrates how schools can better support autistic students. The recommendations are based on years of practical experience.
To better support autistic students and address their specific needs, it is necessary to implement adapted measures in schools:
1. Training of Teachers and Educational Staff
- Provide basic understanding of autism: Teachers should receive at least basic training on autism and neurodivergent developmental conditions. This basic education would enable them to recognize students’ specific needs and better adapt their teaching methods.
- Training of health personnel in schools: School nurses, psychologists, and social workers should also be trained to adequately support both students and teachers.
2. Promoting the Use of Adapted Tools
- Use digital tools: The use of digital tools should be encouraged when they can facilitate learning and communication for autistic students. Such individually adapted aids can make an important contribution to their inclusion and academic success.
- Create retreat spaces: Schools should establish spaces for social and sensory recovery. These quiet places help students regulate themselves, reduce anxiety, and better cope with daily demands.
3. Recruitment and Training of Specialists
- Hire and train specialized staff: Specialized professionals should be recruited and trained in competence centers to support autistic students, particularly in the classroom. These professionals must be specifically qualified in autism and neurodivergent developmental conditions.
4. Supporting Teachers with Daily Challenges
- Recognition and support: Teachers face major challenges such as exhaustion, stress, and dealing with challenging behaviors of autistic students. It is crucial to offer them continuous support to prevent burnout.
- Limiting class size: Where possible, classes should be kept smaller when integrating students with neurodivergent conditions. This improves the well-being of both teachers and students.
- Regular supervision: Teachers who support students with neurodivergent conditions in their class should receive regular supervision to assist in adapting their teaching methods.
5. Improving Communication Between Parents and Teachers
- Organize trimestral meetings: Regular meetings provide opportunities to discuss the child’s development, existing accommodations, and necessary changes.
- Establish regular communication channels: Using a communication notebook or digital platforms can make it easier for parents and teachers to stay in contact. This facilitates coordination and enables quick responses to the child’s needs.
6. Reducing the Burden of Multilingualism
In multilingual school systems, such as in Luxembourg, language requirements should be reduced for autistic children, as they often have significant difficulties dealing with multiple languages. Where possible, instruction should focus on a single language to reduce cognitive load and improve comprehension and participation in class.