As is the case for many children who experience autism, Nick demonstrates difficulties with processing and sensory integration. Because of this, he may require more time to process all sensory input and may react in a negative way (tantrum) when presented with novel, overwhelming sensory stimulation or input. In order to help Nick overcome this, we are providing him with multi-modal cues including verbal, gestural, and natura environmentall cues.

Nick can self-calm with the verbal cues "calm down" or "all done". "If__, then____" statements also help motivate Nick to finish a task. Nick can be reminded to stop self-stimulatory hand waving with the visual cue of waving your fingers/hands as he does. Nick resists many activities which involve tactile input such as soap in the hand washing routine, lotion, band-aids, etc. To address this, it was decided to do desensitization techniques, targeting a new sensation each quarter. Parents will prioritize these and staff will help with this program."

* Extracted from Nick's IEP (October 2001).