1. Social Interaction
School Recommendations:
- Implement structured social skills groups.
- Use peer buddy systems to encourage interaction.
- Provide visual supports (e.g., cue cards) for initiating conversations.
- Offer guided play activities to encourage cooperative play.
Home Recommendations:
- Arrange playdates with structured activities.
- Model and role-play turn-taking conversations.
- Use social stories to explain appropriate social behaviors.
- Reinforce positive social interactions with praise and rewards.
2. Communication & Language
School Recommendations:
- Implement speech therapy sessions focusing on expressive and receptive language.
- Utilize Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices as needed.
- Use visual schedules and picture exchange communication systems (PECS).
- Provide structured opportunities for back-and-forth exchanges.
Home Recommendations:
- Encourage verbal communication by prompting responses.
- Use simple language and give clear instructions.
- Reinforce communication through games and storytelling.
- Support articulation practice through songs and rhymes.
3. Play & Interests
School Recommendations:
- Guide students in pretend play activities.
- Encourage cooperative play with structured group activities.
- Introduce new toys and activities to expand interests.
- Provide sensory-friendly play areas.
Home Recommendations:
- Use pretend play sets to encourage imaginative play.
- Join in play activities to model appropriate behavior.
- Offer a variety of toys to encourage exploration.
- Schedule playtimes with peers to promote engagement.
4. Behavioral Flexibility & Routine
School Recommendations:
- Use visual schedules and first-then boards.
- Prepare students for transitions with countdowns and warnings.
- Provide choices to give a sense of control.
- Reinforce flexibility with praise and incentives.
Home Recommendations:
- Establish and maintain consistent routines.
- Gradually introduce small changes to routines.
- Use timers and visual cues to signal transitions.
- Teach coping strategies for unexpected changes.
5. Sensory Responses
School Recommendations:
- Offer sensory breaks and quiet spaces.
- Provide noise-canceling headphones for sound sensitivity.
- Allow the use of fidget tools for self-regulation.
- Adapt lighting and classroom environment for sensory comfort.
Home Recommendations:
- Create a sensory-friendly space at home.
- Use weighted blankets or compression clothing if helpful.
- Provide sensory activities like swinging, brushing, or textured play.
- Monitor reactions to sensory stimuli and adjust environments accordingly.
6. Repetitive Behaviors & Special Interests
School Recommendations:
- Redirect repetitive behaviors into functional activities.
- Allow time for special interests but encourage balance.
- Use scheduled breaks to manage repetitive actions.
- Reinforce engagement in diverse activities.
Home Recommendations:
- Encourage exploration of new hobbies alongside special interests.
- Provide alternative activities when repetitive behaviors become disruptive.
- Use structured routines to set expectations for varied engagement.
- Set limits on fixations while reinforcing appropriate engagement.
This article provides specific recommendations for supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Down Syndrome (DS) in school and home settings, ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations and interventions tailored to their unique needs.
For more direct support, email [email protected]