How do you deal with a special needs toddler in a mainstream classroom?
I work at a daycare. In one class, there is a boy, "Z" who is autistic. He is 2 1/2 and in a room of other kids ages 2-1/2 to 3-1/2. In the room, we can have up to 10 kids per teacher.
However, this boy definitely needs more one-on-one attention than what he's getting. He has some issues with food (he has to be spoon fed his yogurt and baby food for lunch, but he will eat crunchy foods like chips and cereal independently). He also can get aggressive and push and hit his classmates (but he's also really sweet at times, and loves giving hugs). He also loves animals- especially cows and fish, and he can tell you that a cow says "moo"etc. [You do have to get to know him to understand what he's saying at times both verbally and in ASL].
There are some other major issues however. Because he needs so much attention, at times, it takes the attention off the other kids. One teacher might be changing diapers/supervising potty training while the other will have to watch Z- while another 15-19 kids are playing on the carpet. Also, because Z throws puzzles, the entire class is not allowed to touch the puzzles- which is clearly not fair to the children.
It also means that, if there are 10 or fewer children, one teacher can't sit and read a book to the kids while Z is there because Z is prone to opening the classroom door and running out. In fact, at times, a teacher has to stand guard at the door- even if she is also needed across the room to deal with other children.
Any advice?
Comments
It isn't fair for HIM to be in a class with teachers who have no idea how to deal with an autistic child and instead of reading the numerous articles and information on the 'Net about this issue, ask a question here.
You have to watch z all the time because you are not making any accommodations for his disability. First, there are rubber balls that are sold that go over the door knob so it can only be turned by an adult. Or for heaven's sake, put a latch above his reach.
It isn't fair to the other kids not to be able to use the puzzles, but it is not his fault, it is your fault. There are plenty of activities available that will hold his attention while the other kids do puzzles. How about one of the games that makes animal sounds? He would love that. Get on the 'Net and find out what you need to know about his disability, what will entertain him and how to reinforce his positive behaviors.
Don't just stand there helplessly acting like its the child's fault. NEVER blame the learner. It is up to you to find out how to help him or ask his parent to take him elsewhere because you cannot do the job.
He needs one on one support in the class with someone with ASL skills, like an EA. Someone so young needs to learn appropriate behaviour so he and others can enjoy each other and learn together. Leaving any child with out a means to accessible communication will build frustration levels.
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