Create a Learning Environment Where Autistic Students Thrive

Thankfully, awareness of neurodivergence is stronger than ever before. With over 70,000 autistic people in the UK and total diagnoses on the rise, it’s imperative that we work to create environments suitable for everyone, especially when it comes to education. We’ll investigate some ways that you can create a learning environment where autistic students aren’t just comfortable, but thrive!

What is ASD?

ASD stands for Autism Spectrum Disorder and is a type of neurodivergence that affects 1 in 100 people in the UK. It is often characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviours.

Autism is not an illness or a disease, it just means that your brain processes things differently to others. People are born this way and although there’s been plenty of misinformation blaming things like diet and vaccines for autism, these have been debunked time and time again. Not every autistic person will display the same characteristics or require the same level of support. No brain is identical and this applies to autistic brains just as much as it does to neurotypicals.

Autism can be diagnosed in children from 18 months of age. It’s important that they get their diagnosis sooner rather than later so they can get access to the support they need. 

What are some autistic traits in children?

As mentioned previously, autism presents itself in different ways and although someone may display traits of autism, it doesn’t mean they have it. Afterall, autistic traits are just human traits. A diagnosis comes when someone displays many of these traits together.

So, here are some tell-tale signs that a child might be autistic:

• Stimming (flapping of arms, tapping, rocking)
• Delayed, unusual or non existent speech
• Echolalia (repeating the same words, phrases or sentences)
• Sensory overload (getting upset at loud noises, bright lights, certain smells)
• Repetitive behaviour
• Avoiding eye contact
• Liking a strict routine and getting upset when it changes
• Having a keen interest in very specific topics
• Disinterested in pretend play
• Avoiding eye contact

What environments can be difficult for autistic students?

Many autistic people value organisation and routine and autistic children in particular may struggle to regulate their emotions if these needs are not met. Unstructured break and activity times can cause a lot of anxiety as it could disrupt their routine.

Sensory processing is another area where autistic children may struggle, so highly stimulating environments can be challenging for an autistic student to learn in. For example, high levels of background noise, bright or flashing lights, cramped environments where there’s minimal personal space.

Sometimes, autistic children prefer a slower paced, organised discussion that allows them to process their thoughts and think before speaking. High energy debate style environments can be overwhelming and students could get left out of discussions due to this. 

How can schools create an environment where autistic students can thrive?

The first key to giving autistic students the support they deserve is by being committed to understanding. So you’re in the right place! Here are some ways you can create a positive learning environment for them.

• Designated quiet areas or access to noise cancelling headphones 
• Different lighting options such as floor lamps and dimmer switches, not just harsh, fluorescent lights
• Reduce unnecessary clutter and information 
• Structured break and activity times and forewarning to any changes in routine
• Sensory rich environments e.g. weighted blankets, soft furnishings, different textures, collections of fidget spinners
• Clear signs to show flow of human traffic e.g. a one way canteen system
• Access to outdoor space for learning 
• Allow sensory breaks for autistic children to recharge 

Can one of our structures help fulfil your needs?

Our structures provide solutions to many of your school’s needs but can really aid in creating a better environment for autistic children. For example, our canopies allow outdoor learning during any season, which tend to be quieter, calmer spaces for someone who may struggle with sensory processing. Our covered walkways can help ease congestion, making environments less stressful and stimulating. Finally, building a structure to extend your dining space can make an already echoey, chaotic environment much calmer. 

If you’d like to hear more about our structures, cost and what funding is available, take a look at our website.