This is a great article by Julie Green that summarizes some ‘School Hacks’ for teachers of students with Autism (also great for kids with Anxiety and ADHD). 

• Reinforcement; 
• Schedules; 
• Tap into student interests;
• Focus on social skills;
• Assessing Behaviour.  

The ideas are simple yet super valuable for students who need the extra support and they easily implemented.

As a teacher for many years and now as a school Principal these suggestions are part of regular planning for all kids who have challenges in the classroom environment. All kids benefit from an organized environment and a clear understanding of what is happening each day. Schedules will help everyone but are imperative for some kids to feel calm and prepared for what is to come. 

Tapping into interests is motivating for all of us as well. The more interested we are in what we are doing or learning the more engaged we are. Kids with Autism and ADHD often perseverate on certain topics and if we can find a way to work with that and build it into classroom learning it could really help. Why not allow the child to teach others about his area of interest?  This can help develop social friendships, as well as honour the passion and interest of the child. This is only a couple of the suggestions this article has to offer.

 As a parent, these are also useful ideas to implement at home and could go a long way toward helping us have a calmer household!Being able to offer teachers a short list of strategies or a link to an article can go a long way toward helping your child have success in school too. Don’t be afraid to share those strategies. Teachers love to learn and value the input of parents, particularly when you have strategies that will help create a calm and successful classroom for your child.