Teaching Autistic Students: A Journey of Patience and Growth

Throughout my 17-year career as an itinerant special education teacher, I had the privilege of working with a range of students with unique needs and challenges. One of the most meaningful experiences was teaching autistic students, particularly those with whom I spent 30 days in their homes for one-on-one instruction.

Challenging Yet Rewarding

Working with autistic students was a unique and often challenging experience. During my 1.5 hours of one-on-one teaching per day, I found that their behaviors could be quite specific, sometimes leading to stand-alone discussions about the material. However, the reality of their learning was very literal, even if it was devoid of emotional or social nuances. This required a different perspective and approach, but it was deeply satisfying to see them progress and eventually graduate.

Flexibility and Patient Teaching

To be an effective itinerant special education teacher, one must be highly adaptable and patient. My students with autism faced numerous challenges, from behavioral issues to communication difficulties. However, with the right approach, these challenges could be surmounted. Flexibility in teaching methods and understanding the unique needs of each student were essential.

Strategies for Success

Patience played a crucial role in teaching autistic students. Recognizing that they may have trouble understanding or expressing themselves, I focused on building a positive and supportive relationship. Simple rewards and understanding their triggers helped me effectively guide them through their learning journey. For instance, understanding what sets them off—be it a specific sound or tactile sensation—allowed me to create a more comfortable and soothing learning environment.

The Long-Term Perspective

Reflecting on my experiences, it's clear that teaching autistic students requires a long-term perspective. These students are not just facing immediate challenges; they are on a path towards independence and integration into society. The patience and understanding that I demonstrated in those 30 days have lasting impacts.

Embracing Diversity in Education

Working with autistic students has taught me the importance of embracing diversity in the classroom. While the experiences with each student were individual and unique, the underlying lesson was the same: every student deserves a quality education that meets their unique needs. Teaching autistic students reinforced the belief that adaptability and an openness to learning new methods are essential for the profession.

Conclusion

Teaching autistic students has been both challenging and rewarding. The journey of patience and understanding has led to growth not just for the students, but for the educators as well. It's a reminder that the most significant learning often takes place beyond the traditional classroom. If you have a child with autism, remember that patience, flexibility, and the ability to please them are key to making the teaching process easier and more successful.

Keywords: autism education, itinerant special education, teaching autistic students