Can you be autistic and have very mild sensory issues?

How can I better deal with a student with sensory issues?

• I have a student in my preschool class, aged 4. Flaps his arms alot, poor social skills, not many kids really want to be around him. He is very smart, advanced knowledge. May even be gifted but has sensory intergration disorders. The other teacher in the class as well as myself believe he may have undiagnosed Asperger's Syndrome but he is still going through testing at the moment. Any fellow teachers/social workers/ therapists that know how to deal with this child? His behavior is highly unpredictable, he flaps his arms and is very clumsy so he constantly bumps into kids, steps on them, etc., and he is very touchy feely. Also will go up to complete strangers that come in the classroom and tell them he loves them.

• Answer:

  First of all, I think it is a great thing that he is currently being evaluated. Sounds like Aspergers is a possibility...in my opinion...but could be several other disorders. To address his needs now...try to give him something to do with his hands (holding something, etc). Explaing 'personal space' by describing a 'bubble' that is around people. He may not enter someone elses bubble without their permission...but explain what he can do...shake hands, wave, hi-five. Try to remain positive and give lots of good feedback when he soes something desired...rather than lots of negative when he does something wrong. But, in order to do that you need to explain the 'rules' of what is appropriate more than once. You can even try coming up with a behavior modification system, (for example, stickers for each 10 minute period with positive behavior). I wish I could help more, but with a limited knowledge of the situation, this is the best I can do. Once he is evaluated you will have the benefit of a team to work directly with him and possibly you to help him integrate into the classroom. Good Luck