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What is ASD?
Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) affect the way a person communicates with and relates to those around them. These disorders are thought to affect over 500,000 families in the UK. An example of an ASD is Asperger’s syndrome.
What to look out for
Pupils with ASD have difficulties with everyday social interaction. They find developing friendships difficult and have limited understanding of other people’s emotional expressions.
This means that these pupils will have difficulties in accessing the curriculum. They may also find it hard to take part in all the social activities that schools provide. Such pupils need a lot of support, both in the classroom and in the playground.
Where to find out more
All staff (teaching and non-teaching) who come into contact with children with autistic spectrum disorders need to be informed about the problems the children face and what can be done to help them both learn and play. The following organisations might provide a starting point: