Autism Spectrum Disorder

Explicit instruction in social interaction skills such as turn-taking, reading body language, starting conversations, understanding perspectives, and resolving conflicts. Social skills training is often included in the IEP for students with autism, emotional disturbance, or other disabilities that affect social functioning. It can be delivered individually, in small groups, or embedded in the school day.

The way the nervous system receives, organizes, and responds to sensory input from the environment (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, movement, and body awareness). Some students may be oversensitive (avoiding certain inputs) or undersensitive (seeking sensory input), which can affect behavior, attention, and learning.

Any method of communication that supplements or replaces speech for individuals who have difficulty producing or understanding spoken language. AAC ranges from low-tech options (picture boards, sign language) to high-tech devices (speech-generating tablets, eye-gaze systems). AAC is a form of assistive technology that schools must consider.