DEPARTMENT of EDUCATION
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Autism specific programs

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism parent support group
Zone programs
Home visit program
Individual teaching programs
Parent education programs
Autism specific playgroups

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects a person’s understanding of what they see, hear and sense. This results in problems with communication, social skills and behaviour.

Autism is a complex condition. At the Early Childhood Intervention Service we offer a number of diverse program options to assist you to meet the special needs of your child and family.

For details contact the Early Childhood Intervention Service in Burnie, Devonport, Hobart or Launceston

Autism parent support group

At Autism parent support group you can:

  • come together with other families and support each other
  • listen to guest speakers on topics relating to raising a child with autism

Zone programs

Come together with parents and caregivers of other children in a supportive environment and:

  • work on skill acquisition with your child
  • obtain coaching in ways to engage your child in:
    • communicative interactions
    • fun and play activities
    • developmentally appropriate tasks
  • enable your child to enhance their thinking and problem solving skills

Home visit program

If you choose to be involved in a home visit program these visits will give your family:

  • access to support from teachers
  • encouragement to work on identified skills and goals between visits

Individual teaching programs

Your child may benefit from an individualised program with one-to-one focus.

These sessions take place in a controlled environment to minimise distractions and maximise opportunities for success.

In the sessions you can:

  • observe interactions and reflect on what is happening
  • participate alongside teaching and therapy staff 
  • discuss the strategies and how you might implement them in a natural setting such as at home or in the park
  • be an active participant in ongoing planning and review of the development of your child’s skills

Parent education programs

You can access a range of parent education programs at times that are convenient to parents and caregivers, including evening sessions so that working parents and caregivers and/or extended family members can attend.

There are a range of programs offered, including:

  • general topics, for example, “what is Autism Spectrum Disorder”
  • specific topics, for example, behaviour support or siblings issues

Autism specific playgroups

At the playgroups you can:

  • bring your child together with a diverse group of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder 
  • practice strategies to enhance your child’s learning
  • meet other parents and caregivers and discuss issues
  • share ideas and support with other families

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