Environmental Assessment and Modification
Creating an Autism Friendly Environment
The environment in which an individual finds him or herself has the potential to have a distinct effect on their concentration, comfort and overall ability to access and participate. This is particularly noteworthy when discussing the often-difficult transitionary period autistic individuals can go through when entering an educational, work or any other environment.
The Assessment
Sharon offers environmental assessments for schools and other centres in which autistic individuals are supported. During these assessments:
- Sharon will visit a school building or area.
- She will examine the environment’s suitability for autistic individuals or those with sensory processing difficulties (SPD).
- She will flag any aspects of the environment that have the potential to negatively impact upon an autistic individual’s participation.
Whats next?
Once these areas are identified, Sharon will work with staff to ensure the environment is designed in an autism-friendly and competent way and she will ensure staff are best equipped to deal with the needs of their charges. These observations and changes may include:
- The introduction of sensory supports into centres or classrooms.
- The implementation of visual schedules.
- Any number of other individualised and general practical strategies that can easily be integrated.
As well as these more general observations, Sharon can also unobtrusively observe a single child or adult in their educational or work environment, and create an individualised support plan that caters specifically for the observed individual’s needs.