Help for autistic children in mainstream schools is on its way.
Autism New Zealand this week announced a project to help schools improve access to education for those on the autism spectrum.
Chief executive Alison Molloy said a tool kit had been developed and would be delivered to every school in the
country, thanks to funding from Pub Charity.
"Our big goals are to improve the opportunities for all children to get the most they can from their education and to make our schools more inclusive," Ms Molloy said.
With one in 100 New Zealanders on the autism spectrum, on average one in three classrooms will contain someone with autism, who may or may not have been diagnosed.
The nature of autism means autistic children may not respond to the classroom environment in the same way as other children. There is an increased likelihood of disruption, which can affect the learning of everyone.
"The response of other children to someone who may struggle with communication and social interaction has led to cases of bullying and violence and can further isolate an already marginalised person," Ms Molloy said.
Autism New Zealand believes the tool kit will help school staff identify a person on the autism spectrum, and recognise the triggers that can lead to disruptive behaviour. The benefits of the tool kit have been recognised by the Ministry of Education who are interested in supporting the project.
