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<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFact-checked by Vincenza De Falco, Autism & Learning Disabilities Specialist Coach<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Children with\u00a0Autism Spectrum Disorder<\/a>\u00a0(ASD) are all very different from one another, but they experience similar challenges in learning how to read. The challenges vary because Autism is on a spectrum, but for most of these children, foundational language and social skills are impacted. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because these challenges often affect\u00a0reading comprehension<\/a>\u00a0skills, learning strategies, and a child\u2019s readiness to learn, it is essential to provide Autistic children with tools to help them become successful readers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post, we'll cover:<\/p>\n
No matter where your autistic child falls on the spectrum, start off by reading with your child. This will help to develop an interest in books and reading, which will make the process of learning to read easier later on. Even if your child is nonverbal, he or she can interact with you and the book. You can learn what kinds of books are most attractive to your child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you read with your child, learn which topics he or she finds most attractive. Be sure to focus on those subjects. When you do this, your child will take a greater interest in learning to read. If your child enjoys animals, it is easy to find these kinds of books with both text and pictures. Your child will enjoy reading more when it includes his or her interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Generally speaking, children with Autism find it easier to learn when they read books with language that is simple and concrete. You can make it a multisensory experience by using visual aids such as having pictures in the book. You can use flashcards to make associations between words and a visual clue, or you can make noises to mimic words in the book. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You should be thoughtful when you create a reading space for your autistic child. Autistic children can be sensitive to bright lights<\/a> or distracting noises such as the sound of the air conditioning. Choose a room with moderate lighting that is quiet. Create a reading space for your reading time, and your child will enjoy this routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once you have developed an interest in reading, you are ready to start teaching your autistic child to read. You need to keep an open mind, as every child is different. You should be flexible and celebrate each milestone as you move forward. You should use direct speech, repetition, and rewards when teaching your child to read.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Phonics is a set of rules for how letters sound and mesh together. Because autistic children are usually good rule followers, they are receptive to phonics-based learning<\/a>. They like its predictability and structure of it. You can start with the 44 consonant and vowel phonemes.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choose books that focus on particular phonetic<\/a> sounds. You can back it up with pictures, and this will provide a lot of different tools to become more proficient in the early stages of reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you begin a reading activity, the most important thing is that the child understands what he or she is expected to do. Make sure that the instructions are self-explanatory and concise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many autistic children are good at literal comprehension, and they need to learn reading comprehension skills. Use books that have precise methods for teaching simple inferences. You can use other tactics, such as building background knowledge<\/a> to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When your child has Autism, you need to teach him or her in small increments. Start with the letters of the alphabet and then move to phonetic sounds. Once you are ready, build with sight words and short sentences. Advance in small increments with the material your child has mastered. Make sure you celebrate the successes along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you start out, you need to keep instructions simple and avoid complicated instructions. Use as few words as possible to explain the task and keep it simple. Your autistic child needs as much time as it takes to master each little milestone before moving on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, you should avoid figurative language. You should not use idioms or metaphors; instead, stick to literal words and sentences. Although people with Autism may be able to learn the figurative language<\/a>, they need to learn the basics first so that they do not become overwhelmed. In the beginning, stick to what is literal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, you need to be patient. This is true with any child, but it is vital with autistic children. Learning to be patient<\/a> with your autistic child will provide an opportunity for growth and development. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
All children have different strengths and weaknesses<\/a>, and autistic children are no different. Autism is not a learning disability. In fact, many autistic children, even if they are nonverbal, can learn to read earlier than their peers who are not autistic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you take the time to learn the best method for your child, you can customize the learning experience so that he or she benefits the most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now you should pick a program or a book. You can choose an online curriculum that has a predesigned reading program for autistic children. These programs offer many different tools. Using an online program allows for many visuals and sounds as well, which helps to keep your child engaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start off with a simple book with pictures, tactile exercises, or sounds. You can actually make the sounds along with your child. For example, if your child loves farm animals, find a simple book about this topic. When your child reads the word for an animal, you can make the noise. So, if your child reads \u201cdog,\u201d you can respond with \u201cwoof.\u201d This will be fun for your child, and it is an opportunity to keep him or her engaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When children are young, repetition creates understanding. When you start the reading lesson, you can go over a few sentences from the previous day. Providing your child with these opportunities to feel successful will help to keep him or her engaged and willing to try new material without feeling overwhelmed. Whenever things become intense, go to something you know your child can do well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter what you are reading, you should always end on a positive note. If your child has been struggling with the material but then figures it out, praise him or her, and let it be enough for the day. It is important not to push too hard because this can create frustration, which can lead to a distaste for reading. You want to end every lesson on a positive note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once your child has the hang of reading simple sentences, you should start talking about what is happening in the book. If the text says that the horse walked out of the barn, find ways to discuss what that means. After you read the story, talk about why the horse walked out of the barn. When you talk about the subject matter, you are teaching your child to open his or her mind to look forward to learning what will happen next in the story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The thing about Autism is that every child is different. Autism is a spectrum, and there is a wide range of where children can fall. Your child could be high functioning, and communicative, or your child could be nonverbal. Some children have hyperlexia<\/a>, where he or she is fascinated with words and numbers and memorizes them all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interactive apps are great tools for teaching an autistic child to read. Different sensory aids often accompany them. You will find several apps that help to develop language, and you can supplement your reading program with them. This will help your child to learn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also use assistive technology<\/a> to support and enhance communication. Even nonverbal children are able to communicate, and as you are teaching your child to read, you need to be able to relate to know that he or she understands it. You likely already have a communication system in place, but you can use various technologies to enhance this communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your SLP will provide you with a wealth of information. Some autistic children have difficulty learning to read because of their struggle with language. Your SLP will have great resources and can help you understand the path to success for your child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It can be easy to get caught up in the task of reading and lose sight of the big picture. Reading is a step toward literacy, which is the end goal. Reading unlocks the door to all kinds of learning potential, so it truly is a means to an end. However, reading is not the end in and of itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
That said, starting small and building up is the way to go. You want to make sure that you take baby steps and find measurable progress along the way. Don\u2019t hesitate to review the material because the end goal is mastery. Repetition will give your child confidence, and your child will have a positive attitude about reading. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overcoming occasional mistakes will also teach your child emotional when learning a new skill, and this is critical to your child\u2019s future literacy, which is the end goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are teaching your autistic child to read, you will want to find online resources. You might find apps or small programs that can assist you at every step in your child\u2019s progress. You can look at homeschool curricula<\/a> for children with Autism to find a range of applications to supplement your child\u2019s learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teaching your autistic child to read can be an engaging experience, and there is so much you can do. You should work with your SLP to combine the right programs for your child. You will begin by reinforcing letters and phonics. You can use flashcards and sounds to make this a more interactive experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Next, move on to sight words and reading small sentences. Read with your child so that he or she can hear the sounds. You can make noises to associate with words as well because this helps with retention. Once your child is ready to start reading, start focusing on comprehension. You can even work on basic and simple books. Reading is meant for understanding, and this is an important skill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When your child begins to learn reading comprehension, it will open the door to all kinds of learning. Reading provides the opportunity to learn everything in life. You should always remember that reading is a means to an end, with the end goal being your child\u2019s literacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How To Teach An Autistic Child To Lose<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"vincenza\"](\"https:\/\/safesleepsystems.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/vincenza-150x150.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nVincenza De Falco is an\u00a0Autism & Learning Disabilities (LD) specialist coach\u00a0with extensive experience working with young people with various needs in different settings. Her passion for Autism & LD started as a volunteer at a multi-functional provision for Autism while studying for a\u00a0BA in Theatre, Education, and Deaf Studies.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout her career, Vincenza continues her professional development alongside working within numerous support and leadership roles in education and charities. Having gained Level 3 in\u00a0Speech and Language Support, HLTA qualification, Level 3 Award in Education and Training, and Level 3\u00a0CMI Coaching\u00a0qualification, Vincenza has furthered her expertise in\u00a0Autism & LD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Entering the Third Sector as a Project Manager developing and delivering a specialist NEET program, she subsequently joined ThinkForward\u2019s newest venture\u00a0DFN MoveForward, supporting young people with Autism & LD to successfully transition from education into paid employment.\u00a0Through 1:1 coaching, family support, and training employers to become Disability Confident, Vincenza builds bespoke programs for young people with work readiness and employment goals. Through Vincenza\u2019s passion for creating systemic change in Disability and jobs, she forms part of the successful partnership running the DFN Project Search Supported Internship at\u00a0Moorfields Eye Hospital.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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