How do you deal with an autistic child in a Sunday School class?

Answer by  malone (4817)

"Autism" is a broad diagnostic category. Any child with autism needs special care and consideration from a trained individual. I doubt that your Sunday school class or any of the teachers is equipped to take on this responsibility. The parents should be required provide a minder for their child.

Answer by  camfishy8 (55)

First you should talk to his parents to see what works at home and school. It really depends on whether or not the child is high functioning. Some autistic children just sit alone playing with something while others can be quite involved in the class.

Answer by  soothsayer (500)

An autistic child is will need to familiarize quite well with a new environment to be comfortable. Sameness in the scheme of things and repetitive drills will keep him engrossed. A first step would be to regularize his place of sitting with similar people sitting next to him every week.

Answer by  Lu (78)

You have access to the experts in caring for this child. Speak with the child's parents to find techniques that have worked for them. They will be happy to help you and pleased that you are interested in making the Sunday School experience positive for their child. Each autistic child has different needs, start with the parents.

Answer by  Brett (7986)

Usually there are consultants which can help you, but personally, I would talk to his/her parents about the difficulties you are having.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

Unfortunately he needs to have his own teacher or helper in the class. You need to find out from the parents his strengths and focus on that. I worked with austistic children and I find that they need individual attention.