Part 2 - The Toolbox - Autism in Practice
The Toolbox provides direct advice for day-to-day practice: the guidance in each section is presented in the form of grids which address the impact of autism on key aspects of practice, and relate these to 'How Good is Our School' ( HMIE, 2007a) and 'Child at the Centre' ( HMIE, 2007b).
Section 1 - Knowing About Autism
In order to include and support individual children and young people with autism in mainstream services it is important to have an understanding about the nature of this lifelong, complex spectrum which has day-to-day implications for work in schools . This section emphasises the importance of starting with the person and combining individual understanding with knowledge about autism. It presents an introductory understanding which will help practitioners to feel both informed and more skilled.
Section 2 - Support for Pre-Schools, Primary Schools and Secondary Schools
Ten key aspects of practice are addressed in this section.
Section 3 - Support for Parents and Families
Working together with parents and families in the eight main ways highlighted in this section will ensure appropriate links with families.
Section 4 - Working with Other Agencies
No single professional group can meet the needs of pupils with autism in isolation from other services. Seven elements of multi-agency working are covered in this section.