Essential Manual for Asperger Syndrome (ASD) in the Classroom: What Every Teacher Needs to Know

Perfect for time-poor teachers, Kathy Hoopmann's essential handbook is an easy-to-navigate resource that promotes a positive learning environment in which students with Asperger syndrome (ASD) can thrive.

Kathy's unique ability to explain the ASD mind-set shines through as her concise descriptions reveal how to recognise and develop the child's strengths to the fullest potential whilst guiding and mentoring through areas of difficulties.

Full of effective and innovative strategies, the book covers areas such as meltdowns, forming friendships, literal thinking and speaking, and the overwhelming influence of sensory sensitivities. Activities to help explain the child's behaviour to other students are also included which fosters understanding and acceptance. A 'Home Link' section adds vital information about how to work with parents and other caregivers to create safe, loving and fun environments for the child at home and at school.

With illustrations throughout, this book will be of immeasurable value to anyone who is working in a classroom setting with children with ASD.

Table of Contents

Issue Sorter.

1. Preparing for your student with Asperger Syndrome.
• I. How to use this book.
• II. What is Asperger's Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?.
• III. Who is your student with Asperger's Syndrome?.
• IV. Are you the right teacher?.
• V. Think Positive.
• VI. Preparing yourself and the classroom.
• VII. Before the start of the school year.
• VIII. Hints for parents to prepare the child for the new school year.
• IX. Parents have needs too.
• X. Manners.
• XI. Hygiene.
• XII. Educating the rest of the class.
2. Executive Functioning - Organising your student to be organised.
3. Adapting to Change.
4. Understanding the Perspectives of Others - Theory of Mind.
5. Body Language Blindness.
6. Literal Thinkers and Speakers.
7. Forming Friendships and Following Social Rules.
8. Apparent Lack of Emotions.
9. Meltdowns.
10. Special Interests.
11. Bullying.
12. Field Trips, Excursions and Camps.
13. Homework.
14. Classroom DisciplineTo punish or not to punish.
15. Sensory Issues - An overview.
• I. Hearing.
• II. Sight.
• III. Smell.
• IV. Taste.
• V. Touch.
• VI. Balance - Vestibular system.
• VII. Body Awareness - Proprioception.
• VIII. Pain.
• IX. Synaesthesia.

Appendix A.

"Kathy Hoopman's latest book should be compulsory reading for anyone involved in the education of children with AS. Seldom do you find such depth of information in so accessible a form. Busy teachers will find the "Issue Sorter" a life saver. No need to plough through the text, just identify the problem and turn straight to the strategies. This book has an added dimension in that it gives the pupil with AS a voice and provides engaging activities that can be used class-wide. Inspired and absolutely essential reading."
- K.I. Al-Ghani, experienced specialist advisory teacher, autism trainer and author of The Red Beast

"This essential manual provides a wealth of useful and holistic strategies to support inclusion in all aspects of school life for pupils identified as having Asperger syndrome. The author, Kathy Hoopmann, has over 20 years of classroom experience and this shines through... The strategies offered are realistic, sensible and perfect for the non-specialist teacher to have a go at implementing... I especially like the section on sensory issues... It would support any school in developing inclusive practices that would help a pupil with Asperger syndrome to be successful and well prepared for life beyond school."
- Beccie Hawes, head of an inclusion advisory service, Nasen Special