In the United States, 2.41% of children have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). There are 3.5 million people in the country, across all age groups, who live with ASD. It is no secret that there have been more diagnoses of autism in the United States in the past few years. There are many different theories as to why ASD is on the rise, but instead of spending all of our time answering the “why,” we should be focusing on our children with ASD.

Many families who have a child diagnosed with autism don’t know what to do when it comes to their education. Autism can take many forms, as it exists on a wide spectrum. What works for one child might not work for another. However, many children with high functioning autism choose to attend a special high functioning autism school.

Here are the benefits of sending your child to a high functioning autism school:

There is routine
Routine is very important. At “normal” schools, many teachers follow a certain daily schedule. However, children with high functioning autism can be disrupted by even the smallest change to their routine. In a high functioning autism school, they can relax with the predictability of a given structure.

Learning is made accessible
Many children with high functioning autism become frustrated in “normal” schools because it is so difficult for them to learn. Children with autism learn differently and need to follow a curriculum that reflects their needs. In a high functioning autism school, teachers ensure that learning is made accessible for all of their students.

They learn in an environment with other kids who “get” them
At a high functioning autism school, all of the children in class also have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Unfortunately, because many neurotypical children don’t understand autism, they ostracize children with ASD at school. This won’t happen at a specialty school!

Kids can be properly taught how to identify social cues (training not provided to average teacher)
High functioning autism schools only hire teachers who are specially trained to work with children who have ASD. These teachers are knowledgeable, patient, compassionate, and understanding. Children with high functioning autism oftentimes need help identifying social cues and understanding other people’s emotions. This is not a subject that “normal” schools focus on - but high functioning autism schools do.

No extra noise or distractions
One of the most important features of a high functioning autism school is the commitment to noise and distraction-free learning environment. In order to focus properly and be comfortable, children with autism typically need this type of environment. While “normal” schools are usually loud, noisy, and disruptive, specialty schools can provide a calming environment.

All children learn differently. The same goes for children with autism.

While some children perform best in a typical classroom setting, others struggle immensely. There are many options for children with autism when it comes to schooling. One of the most popular of which is a high functioning autism school. If your child has a form of high functioning autism, like Aspergers, they may very well perform better in a high functioning autism school. They will be able to have more one-on-one attention, be tended to by experienced teachers, and be able to learn in a comfortable environment.

Contact Talisman to learn more about our specialty services for children with ADHD.