TEACCH

This is another intervention which is designed to help autism sufferers and their families. It is an educational method which is based upon a structured system that encourages independence in people with autism.

The aim is for autistic children and adults to be able to live and work in society. It tries to reduce the symptoms of autism such as many of the behavioural aspects so that the autistic person can better cope with everyday life.

What does TEACCH stand for?

This stands for ’Treatment and Education of Autistic and related CommuniCation Handicapped children’.

It is a structured system which uses visual techniques as a way of imparting knowledge and skills to autistic children. The reason it uses visual aids is that very often, autistic children respond better to these than verbal or written instructions.

Aspects of the TEACCH system

The TEACCH system is comprised of the following concepts:

• Structured learning: the autistic child prefers and benefits from a structured environment rather than a free and easy approach.
• Collaboration between parents and therapists: two way communication between therapists and parents means that these skills can be taught at home.
• Adaptation: the environment is adapted to the autistic child which reduces their symptoms and enables them to learn at a quicker pace. Plus they do this in a supportive environment.
• Individual assessment: each child is taught via a customised programme which is tailored to his/her needs. Their progress in assessed on a regular basis.
• Skill augmentation: the child’s individual skills and abilities are assessed and focussed upon. The aim is to build upon these as well as helping the child to acquire new skills.

This system takes a holistic approach to the autistic child. It does not concentrate on one area alone but looks all aspects of the child and ways of improving these.