Understanding and Teaching People who have both Down Syndrome and an Autism Spectrum Disorder: Help for Staff and Families

Children and adults who have both Down Syndrome and an autism spectrum disorder may present special challenges to staff and families until everyone understands the impact of the COMBINATION of these two life-effecting disabilities. In this presentation, professionals and families will identify the features of ASD, how they might manifest in people with Down Syndrome and how to address each feature with practical and effective teaching and learning strategies. Special behavioral interventions will be presented including identifying and teaching replacement behavior and developing reactive strategies. Ideas to increase social interaction skills will be shared and demonstrated.