HSC S 7 Understand how to support individuals with autism spectrum condition (ASC)

1. Understand the characteristics and diagnostic features of autism spectrum condition

• 1.1 Describe the main diagnostic features of autism spectrum condition
• 1.2 Explain the meaning of the term ‘autism spectrum’
• 1.3 Describe the range of diagnoses and profiles that are recognised on the autism spectrum
• 1.4 Describe the sensory processing and perceptual differences associated with autism
• 1.5 Describe the effects of other conditions that may co-occur with autism
• 1.6 Describe how autism may affect speech and language development
• 1.7 Explain why it is important to recognise that each individual has unique abilities, needs, strengths and interests

2. Understand how autism can impact on the lives of individuals and others

• 2.1 Describe ways in which autism can impact on the everyday lives of individuals and others
• 2.2 Explain how factors may impact the experience of autism for the individual and others
• 2.3 Give examples of how individuals with autism may experience discrimination
• 2.4 Describe ways of supporting an individual and others to understand their autism spectrum condition
• 2.5 Describe positive aspects of autism spectrum condition

3. Understand different theories and concepts in relation to autism spectrum condition

• 3.1 Explain theories about autism related to: • brain function • genetics • psychology
• 3.2 Explain what is meant by the ‘triad’ and ‘dyad’ of impairment
• 3.3 Explain why there are alternative choices of terminology used to describe the autism spectrum
• 3.4 Evaluate the strengths and limitations of different types of terminology
• 3.5 Explain the contributions of autism rights groups and the implications of their views for the support of individuals with autistic spectrum condition
• 3.6 Outline controversies concerning the search for cures and interventions for autism spectrum conditions and for pre-natal diagnosis

4. Understand the legislative and policy framework in relation to the support of individuals with autistic spectrum conditions

• 4.1 Explain how current legislation, national policy and guidance supports the rights of individuals with autism in relation to: • advocacy • education and employment • mental capacity • safeguarding

5. Understand how to develop strategies and skills to enable social interaction and communication with individuals on the autism spectrum

• 5.1 Explain how behaviour should be viewed as a form of communication
• 5.2 Describe how strategies and assistive technology are used to develop and support social interaction and communication
• 5.3 Evaluate how to adapt own verbal and non-verbal communication style during interactions with individuals with autism

6. Understand how to support individuals with an autism spectrum condition

• 6.1 Explain why it is important to establish a person-centred plan tailored to an individual’s specific preferences and needs
• 6.2 Explain why consultation with others is important in person-centred planning and support
• 6.3 Describe different techniques and approaches to support individuals with an autism spectrum condition to learn and develop new skills
• 6.4 Explain how adaptations to the physical and sensory environment can be made to: • reduce sensory overload • increase sensory stimulation
• 6.5 Explain ways of supporting an individual with autism to protect themselves from harm
• 6.6 Explain how needs change for individuals and their families/carers at different stages of their lives
• 6.7 Describe the role of advocacy in the support of individuals with an autism spectrum condition