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Autism

Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder – ASD)

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong developmental difference that affects how a person communicates, experiences the world, and interacts with others. Every autistic child is unique – some may need more support than others, but all have their own strengths, talents, and ways of thinking.

Common Characteristics of Autism

Children may show autism in many different ways. Some common characteristics include:

  • Differences in communication (spoken language, understanding, or social interaction)

  • Finding it difficult to understand other people’s feelings or perspectives

  • Repetitive behaviours or reliance on routines

  • Strong interests or focus on particular topics

  • Sensory differences (being over- or under-sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or smells)

  • Needing support with transitions or unexpected changes

How We Support in School

At Woodchurch, we make sure our classrooms and routines are inclusive for autistic children. Support strategies include:

  • Providing clear routines and visual timetables

  • Using social stories and visual supports

  • Offering quiet spaces when children feel overwhelmed

  • Breaking down instructions into smaller, manageable steps

  • Working closely with families to understand individual needs

  • Celebrating children’s strengths, passions and achievements

How You Can Help at Home

Parents and carers can also support their child through:

  • Keeping routines as predictable as possible

  • Preparing your child in advance for changes or new experiences

  • Using visual supports such as timetables, checklists or picture cards

  • Giving clear, simple instructions and allowing extra time to process

  • Encouraging and celebrating your child’s interests

  • Working in partnership with school so that strategies are consistent

Useful Resources

We’re Here to Help

If you think your child may be autistic, or if they already have a diagnosis, please speak with their class teacher or our Inclusion Leader, Mrs Butcher. Together, we will put the right support in place to help your child feel safe, included, and able to thrive.

Recommended Resource

Amazing Things Happen – an engaging introduction to autism that raises awareness and encourages understanding and acceptance in future generations.

Why Autism is a Difference, not a Deficit

Watch our brand new education video and learn Why Autism is a Difference not a Deficit. While there may be some shared characteristics, every autistic person is unique, with their own strengths, differences and needs. We champion a world where being different is something to be celebrated and where all autistic learners experience a positive education that supports their wellbeing.

 

Can you make it to the end?

Understand autism, the person and what to do. Visit http://bit.ly/2UuogeG

An explanation of autism for children - from the book A Different Kind of Brilliant

A Different Kind of Brilliant is a heartfelt children's book explaining autism to a children in a positive way. Please visit www.adifferentkindofbrilliant.com to purchase a copy of the book online. There's also free teacher resource available on the website. Please also follow us on https://www.facebook.com/ADKOBrilliant/

BBC - My Autism and Me

CBBC Newsround - My Autism and Me. In this Newsround Special, 13-year-old Rosie takes viewers into her world to explain what it's like to grow up with autism - a condition which affects how children see life, and the way they relate to others around them.