Activities implemented by parents to teach reading their children with autism

Abstract

The child with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may present difficulties in reading acquisition. Implementing effective teaching procedures that can involve the family can ensure learning for the children and the instrumentalisation of family members about teaching strategies. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an instructional package for the teaching of fifteen dissyllable (isolated) words for children with ASD, based on the model of reading as a network of relationships. Three children with ASD and their parents participated in the study. Each teaching stage had taught three different words and comprised: teaching a game with the researcher, computerized teaching and playing a game with parents. Overall, children obtained gains in reading the words taught and parents learned to use reinforcement and hint during the games.

Keywords:
Autism; reading; parents