As your children navigate the exciting world of elementary school at The Broach School’s Ponte Vedra Campus, you’re likely to notice their personalities and social skills blossom. But sometimes, certain behaviors might leave you wondering if they’re just “peculiar” or signs of something more.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can present differently in school-aged children than in toddlers. While early intervention is crucial, recognizing the signs and seeking support is never too late.
Here are some things you might observe in your school-aged child:
- Challenges with social interaction: Your child might struggle to make friends, understand social cues like sarcasm or body language, or prefer solitary activities. They may have difficulty navigating group dynamics or understanding unwritten social rules.
- Communication difficulties: While many children with autism speak fluently, they might have trouble with pragmatic language, which is the social use of language, which could include difficulty understanding jokes, taking turns in conversations, or staying on topic.
- Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors: Your child might have intense interests in specific topics and engage in repetitive behaviors like lining up toys or repeating phrases. They may have difficulty with transitions or changes in routine.
- Sensory sensitivities: Children with autism may be over- or under-sensitive to specific sensory inputs, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures, which can lead to meltdowns or avoidance behaviors.
- Academic struggles: While some children with autism excel academically, others may struggle with certain subjects or organization and executive functioning skills.
What to do if you have concerns:
If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s essential to talk to your pediatrician or a developmental specialist. They can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if your child meets the criteria for ASD.
The Broach School: A Supportive Environment:
At The Broach School’s Ponte Vedra Campus, we believe in creating an inclusive and nurturing environment for all learners. Our small class sizes and individualized approach allow us to support students with diverse needs, including those with autism.
Here are some resources that can help:
- Schedule a tour of our Ponte Vedra Campus
- Learn more about our approach to individualized learning
- Connect with autism support organizations such as Autism Speaks, The Color of Autism Foundation, and others.
Embrace your child’s unique learning style with The Broach School’s Ponte Vedra Campus. We turn learning disabilities into stepping stones toward success in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Don’t wait to transform your child’s educational experience. Call us at 904-637-0300 today, and let’s embark on this empowering journey together. Your child’s success is our mission!
