There is no greater challenge for classroom teachers than to discipline a student with special needs such as autism. Although discipline is necessary for all students, normal techniques may not be as effective with kids on the autism spectrum. Violent rages, emotional meltdowns, communication difficulties, and the likelihood that autistic children prefer isolation cause some of the traditional behavior deterrents to be ineffective.
Teachers of autistic students will need special training. They will also need time to consult with parents/professionals in order to develop effective discipline plans. It is important that teachers and parents work together to identify behaviors that are a result of the disability. The process of identifying these misbehaviors is known as the functional behavior assessment (FBA). The resulting action plans that emerge are called functional intervention plans (FIP).
Functional Behavior Assessments for Autistic Students
According to recommendations in Autistic Spectrum Disorders by Mitzi Waltz [Cambridge: O’Reilly & Associates, Inc., 2002, pp. 271-2], the FBA process will need to include the following:
- Descriptions of the autistic misbehaviors noted in the classroom
- Times and locations of misbehaviors
- How teachers and school staff currently deal with these behaviors
- Theories on why these misbehaviors occur
- Any other observations and notes on the student
Finding Alternatives to Autistic Misbehavior
Some behaviors identified by the FBA may need intervention and therapy in order to be eliminated rather than simple disciplinary strategies. For example, the child may make distracting loud noises with voice/body in order to self-soothe. These behaviors are common in children on the autism spectrum, but many can be taught alternative methods of calming down. These methods may require professional help, with teachers learning how to guide the autistic student to more appropriate activities.
Other possible actions to curb misbehaviors can also be taken, such as using relaxation techniques, floor time play therapy, music therapy, auditory therapies that may help an autistic child listen more effectively, and working with parents to make improvements in diet.
Positive Discipline Techniques for Autistic Students
Positive incentives, such as a token or sticker system, can be effective ways of motivating young children with autism. Additionally, observing the autistic student for intense interests can be a benefit to determine the rewards that will motivate good behavior. Examples are if the student particularly enjoys quiet reading time, computer usage, or listening to music, any of these activities can be awarded to the student with autism to help with disciplinary efforts.
Disciplining an autistic child in the classroom is not the same as disciplining a typical student. Many factors will need to be considered, not the least of which is whether or not the concerning behavior is a result of the disorder. Teacher training, consultation with specialists, and functional assessments will all need to be a part of the disciplinary planning process for teachers of autistic students.
To learn more about teaching strategies for students with autism, see the following articles:
- Classroom Social Skills Training for Autism
- Autism Awareness in the Classroom
- Meltdowns in Students with Asperger Syndrome
Karen Plumley - Karen Plumley is a writer specializing in parenting and education. She works for Parenting NH and the Hippo, NH's most widely read ...
