Autism, the Primary Curriculum and the Use of Music

This training will demonstrate how the curriculum may be adapted to support children with autism. The use of music will be demonstrated to encourage engagement and participation in learning. Participants will be shown specific approaches, to create an autism friendly classroom in Special and Primary Schools. Participants will have access to a sample autism friendly classroom environment. Education Professionals from Pre-School and Post-Primary Schools are welcome to attend.

Expected Outcomes: By the end of this training, participants will:

• Increase their understanding of the challenges and strengths of children with autism and how they impact on learning experiences.

• Integrate the use of music to achieve teaching and learning objectives. • Make use of new strategies and ideas to help ensure that children with autism have access to the curriculum in a way that is conducive to their needs and abilities.

• Discover how songs, rhythmic chants and games can support the necessary development of social skills, including joint attention, turn-taking, waiting and listening.

• Develop their understanding of how music and rhythmic games can increase self- esteem and social interaction between all peers within the classroom.