Expert: Dr. Sharon A. Mitchell - 6/30/2008

Question
We have a child that is on the spectrum of having autism. He will be entering our preschool room very soon and as a concerned teacher I was wondering if I should say or have any form of discussion with the children already attending the preschool room to prepare them for the child coming or should we just wait for the children to ask questions. What should I tell them or what should I say, "if anything"?

Answer
Marjorie, it's hard to give a good opinion without knowing more about this child.

In general though, you have a few things going for you in a preschool room that will be helpful to a child with autism. Any preschool I've been in is very organized. The predictability of routines will benefit your new student.

Most kids with autism have stronger visual than auditory skills; they take in information better when they SEE it as opposed to listening. So visuals are important. A visual schedule of what will be happening during the day helps. As will pictures to show where he puts his shoes, his crayons, etc.

As for talking to the other kids, I'm not sure if that's necessary. Kids at that age are very accepting of one another. If this child hangs back, other kids may naturally include him or help guide him in what he's to do. If that's the case, likely an explanation to the group would not be needed. If he's a child who becomes easily overwhelmed and shows his distress with screaming or tantrums, then some talking may help. You could explain that Johnny needs a bit more time to adjust. He'll sit over there then join us later. Or if there is an extra adult around, you could explain that that person will help Johnny.

It's difficult to offer advice since autism is a spectrum disorder with a wide range of ability and symptomology. If the kids ask questions, preschoolers will likely be uninterested in a label; instead they'd want an explanation of any behavior they see as unusual. You could talk to the child's parents before he starts attending and get their take on how they would like any explanations framed.

Preparing ahead of time with visuals, and a quiet place for him to go when he feels overwhelmed by sounds, sights or the close presence of others will help. The parents can tell you what things calm their child and what things are likely to increase his anxiety. Many kids with autism function quite well in such group situations, especially once they understand the routines and expectations.

Best of luck,

Sharon A. Mitchell, B.A., B.Ed., M.A.
www.autismsite.ca