CHAPTER 2

Fitting in

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Understanding Autism

For a student with autism, school is often where they first discover that their brain works differently. The way they learn, communicate, and interact may not always match classroom expectations. Like every child, they want to learn, be accepted, and belong. When they struggle to fit in, understanding begins by asking, “What might they be finding difficult?” and “How can we support them?”

Understanding and relevant accommodations create a classroom where different types of learners can grow and belong.

Communication & Social Processing

Students with autism may experience differences in social processing, communication, and executive functioning. Social cues that seem intuitive to others may need to be learned explicitly.

Classroom instructions, changing routines, and managing multiple demands may require greater effort.

Sensory Differences

Sensory differences can make the school environment overwhelming. Overlapping voices, scraping chairs, and unexpected loud noises can become exhausting to process.

 

Results

For a student with autism, school is often where they first discover: 

#1. Question 1

Social cues that seem intuitive to others may need to be learned explicitly by a student with autism.

#2. Question 2

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