Autism has been defined as “a developmental disability significantly affecting verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction, generally evident before the age of three, and adversely affects a child’s performance.” These are frightening obstacles for parents who dream of success and independence for their child. But, overwhelming as they are, these difficulties can be countered with early intervention and intensive, sustained effort.
ResourcesWhat parents find most frustrating is the reluctance of schools to admit children with this disability. Schools are not equipped to deal with special needs, and the concept of an “integrated” school is virtually non-existent. So parents are faced with a shortage of resources with which to navigate the education system.
The All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) in Mysore, the country’s premier institute, offers training and resources to families through special educators, speech language pathologists, psychologists and other professionals. To address the concerns of parents facing challenges presented by ASDs, a two-day seminar titled “Bringing Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to Home, School and Play” was organised by AIISH in October. Over sixty years of research have shown that ABA is the most effective tool for improving the lives of children with disabilities. Studies have shown that when ABA is used meaningfully, it can be life-altering. But it is not a magic potion and takes years of putting one's shoulder to the wheel to bring results.
Evaluation and progressRadhika Poovayya, a certified Behaviour Analyst from the Samvaad Institute of Speech and Hearing, Bangalore, outlined the techniques of ABA and demonstrated how they can be used in home and school. To sum up, ABA techniques involve the application of basic behavioural practices such as teaching small, doable steps, prompting, using the right drill and practice. Teaching goals are determined by a thorough assessment of the child’s existing skills and individually designed.
Parents are urged to understand their children's strengths and build on them. Autistic children thrive on routine and often insist on things being done the same way — it’s their way of making sense of a chaotic world. One of the primary difficulties children diagnosed with autism have is a lack of communication skills, Poovayya stresses. “The autistic kid is not social, so he does not care whether or not you like what he’s doing. ”
Teach it rightThis child is a delicate learner with a short attention span and compliance issues, so “you have to make yourself a fun person and someone he seeks out,” says Poovayya. He’s not verbal but will readily learn the words for things he likes. ABA uses the Verbal Behaviour approach, which emphasises the function of a language.
The seminar highlighted the need for disseminating awareness about autism, beginning with families and extending to schools and society. With proper planning and devotion, and the assistance of a qualified therapist, parents can help their child succeed emotionally, academically and socially.
