Cards

1) Break Cards-

Sometimes an individual with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may need a break or help but may be unable to communicate that need to others.  As teachers, we can put break cards or help cards within reach of that child and teach them how to use them.  This will help the student to communicate their needs.  We should keep break cards in all the rooms where the individual may be asked to complete tasks.  Cards should be accessed easily.  For example, attach them to a table or shelf, or put them directly on the switch or other augmentative device system.  If the individual seems lost, annoyed, or over-stimulated, remind the student to use the cards to communicate his/her need.  

Reference:

http://handsinautism.iupui.edu

 

2) Choice Cards-

Sometimes an individual with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may need choice cards in order to communicate their decision to others.  For example, maybe the student is asked, "What would you like for snack?  Pretzels or a banana?"  The student would then use the choice cards below to communicate their choice of snack.  Choice cards can also be used to help monitor behaviors.  For example, if a student tends to get very angry, they may have anger choice cards accessible to them.  These cards help them remember appropriate strategies to handle their anger and then they are able to make a choice.

3) Past Event Cards-

I had never heard of past event cards before. They are daily event cards that are put in a schedule form. When the student is asked at home what he/she did that day, the student can look at this paper to help remember the day's events.


I think this is a great tool and should be used with every student, not just students with disabilities. I'm sure that a lot of parents ask their children what they did in school that day and the responses are, "Nothing," "I don't know" or "I don't remember." This tool would help the child remember what they did in school on a given day.