Background:

"J" is 12 and has Autistic Spectrum Disorder. He is a bright young man, but can have periods of intense frustration when he cannot makes his needs understood. He has limited speech. "J" is struggling at a new school. He is at a mainstream secondary school, but the support the school have provided is not working out. "J" has become increasingly aggressive.

Solution:

As well as the usual home visit to assess the family's needs, the SNAP consultant spoke with "J"'s new teacher at the school. A daily male care worker was identified with experience working with children with autism and with this age group and PEC's (Picture Exchange Communication System). It was felt a male was more appropriate because of "J"'s age and move into adolescence.

The carer spent time with his class teacher to be able to understand the behaviour strategies they currently used and to discuss other options.
The carer is employed to work both as a school support and a carer within the home, to be able to provide consistency in both locations.

The carer and school organise a PEC's book which "J" always has to hand. The carer gives the parents regular feedback from the school and if there are particular behaviour problems, this is also discussed with teachers.

The carer works on average 45 hours a week, working within the home full-time during school holidays.