I have a current Autistic student who I have a great relationship with. He is highly intelligent and is in my GT class. He has the 3 characteristics as listed on page 55. He has trouble verbally expressing that he needs help with an assignment. I can't think of one classmate he is personal friends with. He has unique, repetitive habits with his pencils and the way he holds his papers. In spite of all these things, he's a very likable boy who is a joy for me to teach. I feel like I've established a really good rapport with him. Coming into my classroom, I had been told that he would get easily upset and shut down. So way back in August, I purposely set out ways to establish a good relationship that would help him thrive. I use humour with him, and I'm patient and open-minded with him, which from what I've seen, is exactly what he needs. In spite of his unique ways, I've helped him thrive within my classroom because of things I've done to establish a good rapport with him. I've seen him succeed and am excited to see how far he can go this year under my watch.
One way I could improve as an educator is to learn more about low-incidence disabilities, other than Autism. I have never taught a student with Rett Syndrome or CDD. Therefore, I am not knowledgable of these disorders. If I were to have a student with one of these diablities, I would have to learn more about them quickly! Another way I could improve on is finding additional ways to help my Austistic student. Sure, I feel like I do a pretty good job now, but I could always find additional activites and things to help him thrive evern further.
I would like to read more material on various low-incidence disabilities. Another thing I've always wanted to do is learn sign language. I don't need it now, but who knows when I might have a student who could benefit from it. I realize it would be best to learn before I really need it.
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