Tutoring - TEACCH Methodology: (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped Children)

The primary aim of the TEACCH program is to help to prepare people with autism to live or work more effectively at home, at school and in the community. In TEACCH we like to emphasize the left to right pattern of learning. This technique begins to reinforce the reading and writing process. Special emphasis is placed on helping people with autism and their families live together more effectively by reducing or removing 'autistic behaviors'. In many school districts this concept may be referred as the “Independent Work Station”.

A small table/desk with a chair is necessary for instruction. On the left of the desk is a three tiered rack or drawer system allocated with numbers 1,2,3 or colors such as blue, red, yellow located on the outside of an envelope. Above the tier is a sign that says. “Get Work”. The student then takes the appropriate number (started from left to right) off his/her desk and matches it in the identical envelope. He or she then get the work and begins it independently. The purpose of this activity is to let the child work independently. If there is a reason to prompt the instructor will due so. Special toys, games and IEP activities are kept in these drawers. The child should go through all activities appropriately and then place them to the right in a box with a sign that says “All Done” over it. A token reward may be

implemented when the child achieves the correct goal. Language is quiet, slow and simple. Phrases are limited to one, two or three words when expecting comprehension. The child will begin to understand that “IW” (Independent Work) is not over until all three tasks are completed. Praise is given with each and every effort. Sessions are continuously moving.

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