Supporting children, parents, and educators. This website is dedicated to providing developmentally-based, practical information and resources for children on the autism spectrum and to the people who support them.
In the pages of this website you will find downloadable visual supports, web-links, and additional resources. These are all offered in the hopes that they will be used to enrich the lives of individuals with ASD. Some of these resources aim to increase the understanding of the functions of behaviors that we often see demonstrated by children on the spectrum, while others are geared at facilitating play, social interactions, and participation in daily routines.
You will find that the information and supports offered on this site are consistent with the SCERTS Model® and its practice principles. The SCERTS Model Practice Principles: - Fostering functional and spontaneous communication is the highest educational priority for children with ASD.
- A child's day should consist of developmentally appropriate, meaningful, and purposeful activities.
- Natural routines in the home, school, and community environments provide the contexts for learning and for the development of positive relationships with others.
- All behavior is viewed as purposeful. When children display unconventional behaviors or problem behaviors, there should be an emphasis on determining the function of the child's behavior and supporting the child in the development of more appropriate ways to accomplish that function.
- The interactive style of a child's communicative partners, as well as the presence of environmental adaptations and learning supports, has a significant impact on a child's social competence.
Adapted from: Prizant, B.M., Wetherby, A.M., Rubin, E., Laurent, A.C., & Rydell, P.J. (2006). The SCERTS Model: A comprehensive educational approach for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Volume I: Assessment. Baltimore, MD: Paul H Brookes Publishing Co. |
