 Autism is usually characterized by significantly

restricted communication skills.

 Unusual physical mannerisms such as rocking or hand
flapping.
 Most children and adolescents with autism find change
very difficult.
 Some children and adolescents with autism are
fascinated by spinning or flickering objects or by a
particular class of objects.
 Children and adolescents with autism have marked
problems in interpersonal relationship.
 Autism will be accompanied by intellectual disability,
although there may be isolated ‘islands’ of exceptional
skill or talent.
 Autism is generally a serious disorder, it is often
recognized during the preschool years.
STRATEGIES FOR A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY TEAM
It is important that a multidisciplinary team is set up,
so that expertise from various professional fields can be
brought together.
It is often appropriate to appoint one person in the
multi-disciplinary team as the family’s contact person.
Set up and regularly review an individualized
education program.
STRATEGIES FOR SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Autism is a broad-based disorder, so social and emotional
needs must be considered in addition to educational special
needs.
Talk to parents and caregivers to establish individual
idiosyncrasies with regard to what may cause alarm, delight
or distress.
Ensure that there is sufficient social support, perhaps with a
peer as a ‘buddy’ in unstructured social situations.
 STRATEGIES FOR PARENT SUPPORT
Provide evidence-based information on appropriate
treatments to assist parents in evaluating options for their
child.
If necessary, help to arrange respite care for the family,
in recognition of the high demands that may be placed on
the family unit.