Supporting Children with
ASD Level 2 in the Classroom

Practical strategies and evidence-based approaches for teachers, support staff, and educators working with children who have Level 2 autism in Australian classrooms.

Teacher supporting child with ASD Level 2 in classroom

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Introduction

Teaching a child with ASD Level 2 brings both challenges and rewards. These students often have substantial support needs, requiring modifications to communication, routine, and classroom environment. Yet, with the right strategies, they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

This guide provides Australian educators with practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting children with ASD Level 2 in mainstream and special education settings. We'll explore government support systems like NDIS, state-based funding, and school-specific programs designed to foster inclusion and success.

Understanding ASD Level 2 in the Classroom Context

Children with ASD Level 2 require substantial support. In the classroom, this often means:

Communication Challenges

  • Difficulty with verbal expression; may use short phrases or rely on scripts.
  • Challenges understanding non-literal language (idioms, sarcasm).
  • Preference for visual cues over verbal instructions.

Social Interaction

  • Limited eye contact and difficulty interpreting social cues.
  • May struggle with peer relationships and group activities.
  • Interest in socialising, but lacking the skills to navigate complex interactions.

Behavioural and Sensory Needs

  • Strong need for routine; distress when schedules change.
  • Sensory sensitivities (noise, light, textures).
  • Repetitive behaviours that may interfere with learning.

Government and NDIS Support for Students

NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)

Students with ASD Level 2 may access NDIS funding for:

  • Therapy services (speech, occupational therapy).
  • In-school support workers.
  • Assistive technology and communication devices.
  • Social skills programs.

Note: NDIS supports complement, not replace, educational funding.

State Education Department Support

Each Australian state offers funding and programs:

  • Integration aides: Additional staff to support individual students.
  • Specialist schools: For students requiring intensive support.
  • Professional development: Training for teachers on autism-specific strategies.
  • Resource allocation: Based on the student's verified needs.

School-Level Support Systems

  • Individual Education Plans (IEPs): Tailored learning goals.
  • Student Support Groups (SSGs): Regular meetings with parents and specialists.
  • Wellbeing teams: Coordinating holistic support.

Key Classroom Strategies

1. Visual Supports

  • Visual schedules: Display the day's activities with pictures/symbols.
  • First-Then boards: Show what happens now and next.
  • Social stories: Prepare students for new experiences.
  • Visual cue cards: For common requests (toilet, drink, break).

2. Communication Strategies

  • Use clear, concrete language.
  • Allow processing time after giving instructions.
  • Check understanding through demonstration, not just verbal confirmation.
  • Consider AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools.

3. Behavioural Support

  • Positive Behaviour Support (PBS): Focus on preventing challenging behaviours.
  • Clear expectations: Use visual rules and consistent consequences.
  • Sensory breaks: Scheduled movement or quiet time.
  • Choice-making: Offer controlled choices to increase engagement.

4. Academic Modifications

  • Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
  • Use interests to engage (e.g., maths problems about trains if that's their interest).
  • Provide alternatives to handwriting if fine motor skills are challenging.
  • Allow extra time for transitions and task completion.

Creating a Supportive Environment

Physical Environment

  • Designate a quiet/calm space for regulation.
  • Minimise visual clutter on walls.
  • Consider lighting (natural light or dimmer options).
  • Provide noise-reducing headphones.

Social Environment

  • Facilitate structured peer interactions.
  • Assign peer buddies for specific activities.
  • Teach the whole class about neurodiversity and acceptance.
  • Create opportunities for the student to share their strengths.

Predictable Routines

  • Maintain consistent daily schedules.
  • Prepare students for changes well in advance.
  • Use timers to signal transitions.
  • Create rituals for beginning and ending activities.

Collaboration with Families and Specialists

Working with Families

  • Regular communication through chosen method (communication book, app, meetings).
  • Share strategies that work at home and school.
  • Respect family expertise about their child.
  • Collaborate on consistent approaches across settings.

Allied Health Professionals

  • Speech Pathologists: Communication strategies and AAC implementation.
  • Occupational Therapists: Sensory strategies and fine motor support.
  • Psychologists: Behavioural strategies and social skills programs.
  • Integration Aides: Daily implementation of support strategies.

State and Territory Specific Resources

Victoria

Program for Students with Disabilities (PSD) funding, Autism Teaching Institute resources. (https://www.vic.gov.au/program-students-disabilities-psd)

New South Wales

Integration Funding Support, Autism Spectrum Disorder in schools resources. (https://education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/inclusive-learning-support/high-school/how-your-child-can-be-supported-in-high-school/integration-funding-support)

Queensland

Education Adjustment Program (EAP), Autism Hub resources. (https://autismhub.education.qld.gov.au/resources)

Western Australia

Schools of Special Educational Needs, School Psychology Service support. (https://www.education.wa.edu.au/children-with-special-educational-needs)

South Australia

Inclusive Education Support Program, Autism SA school support. (https://autismsa.org.au/supports-services/autism-inclusion-support/)

Tasmania

Educational Adjustments funding, Autism Tasmania educator resources. (https://www.decyp.tas.gov.au/learning/supporting-student-need/educational-adjustments/educational-adjustments-disability-funding-resources/)

Northern Territory

Special Education Support, Autism NT professional development. (https://nt.gov.au/community/parents-and-families/support-services/disability)

Australian Capital Territory

Student Centred Appraisal of Need (SCAN), disability education programs. (https://www.act.gov.au/education-and-training/life-at-school-and-college/students-with-disability)

Connect with Educational Support Specialists

Find professionals who specialise in supporting children with ASD in educational settings.

Find Autism Specialists

FAQs for Educators

Q: How do I manage meltdowns in the classroom?

A: Prevention is key. Identify triggers, provide sensory breaks, and have a calm-down plan. During a meltdown, ensure safety, reduce demands, and give space. Debrief later when calm.

Q: Should students with ASD Level 2 be in mainstream or special schools?

A: This depends on individual needs, available support, and family preference. Many thrive in mainstream settings with adequate support.

Q: How can I help with social inclusion?

A: Structure social opportunities, teach peers about differences, highlight the student's strengths, and facilitate shared interests.

Q: What if strategies aren't working?

A: Consult with the support team, try different approaches, and remember that progress may be slow but meaningful. Document what works and what doesn't.

Q: How do I balance the needs of all students?

A: Many autism-friendly strategies benefit all learners (visual schedules, clear expectations, movement breaks). Seek additional support when needed.

References & Further Resources

  1. Australian Government Department of Education – Students with Disability resources (https://www.education.gov.au/swd)
  2. Autism CRC – Educational practices guide for autism (https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/supporting-children)
  3. Positive Partnerships – Supporting school students on the autism spectrum (https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/)
  4. Autism Awareness Australia – Educator resources (https://www.autismawareness.com.au/resources/education)

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Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Always work with qualified professionals and follow your school's policies when supporting students with disabilities.