Every 20 minutes, someone is diagnosed with autism. April is Autism Acceptance Month, dedicated to better understanding and inclusion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As a school-based healthcare professional, embracing neurodiversity needs to stay top of mind as you work towards true inclusivity at your school and in the community.

Educate yourself and others.

To build a culture of neurodiversity and inclusivity, take the lead in educating students, families, faculty and staff about ASD and the importance of the larger issue of respecting all individual differences.

• Start by empowering yourself. Learn more about autism via reliable sources. Read articles and books and visit reputable websites. Attend workshops. Take online courses provided by ASD organizations or industry experts. Deepening your own understanding is the first step is educating others.
• Inform, teach, train, and communicate with others about ASD. Help them learn more about the diverse presentations of autism including communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral characteristics, so everyone can understand and support ASD students.

Identify and treat ASD students.

Be proactive as you identify potential signs of autism in students. Then, encourage evaluation and intervention services as needed, at the earliest possible stage.

• Develop personalized healthcare plans. Consider each student’s individual needs and circumstances. Remember to incorporate strategies to address related challenges, such as anxiety or medication administration.
• Take a multidisciplinary approach. Partner with other professionals to support students with ASD. These may include speech therapists, occupational therapists, and/or behavior analysts.
• Adapt communication styles for each student. Allow as much time as needed for processing and the provision of clear instructions.

Foster an inclusive environment.

Collaborate with school administration to make your school a welcoming place where everyone feels valued and respected. Make sure the environment is accessible for students with autism, including visual supports, ongoing clear communication, and modifications to routines.

• Implement sensory-friendly practices. This may mean reducing noise, providing visual schedules, and/or designating quiet areas. Have sensory tools like fidget toys available for ASD students.
• Be mindful of sensory triggers such as loud noises, bright lights, or unfamiliar textures.

Support autism awareness and acceptance events.

At your school and in your local community, get involved and support autism awareness and acceptance events. Your involvement in and promotion of autism awareness – this month and year-round – can make a lasting positive impact on affected students and their families.

• In addition to supporting any local or regional efforts, you may want to organize a daylong or weeklong observance of Autism Acceptance Month at your school, with students, families, faculty and staff all on board.

A wealth of information including ASD related tips, awareness and classroom learning activities, books, movies, and more, is available from the Texas Autism Society.

As you grow your career as a school-based healthcare professional, consider a partnership with Covelo Group. Check out current available opportunities and contact us today to learn more.