Learning to be happy, happy to learn

This paper, delivered as an oral poster, will present the views of parents and their children, whose diverse and often delightful approaches to learning are affected by their Autistic spectrum needs. In conversation with a... [ view full abstract ]

This paper, delivered as an oral poster, will present the views of parents and their children, whose diverse and often delightful approaches to learning are affected by their Autistic spectrum needs. In conversation with a Headteacher (and post-doctoral researcher) the participants agreed to share their thoughts in words, pictures and video, on how a school can make a difference to the educational experience of children with Autism. Topics covered include the importance of happy relationships; the need for restorative and ‘fresh start’ practices; the value of inclusion and the relevance of clear and consistent boundaries across home and school.
Parents volunteered to give permission for themselves and/or their child to take part and were able to choose how their voices were captured. The views of the children were collected over a period of three months as they responded to questions from a variety of trusted adults, with choice about when and how their ideas were recorded. Although not approached as formal research at this stage, the findings will be shared with local Universities to inform future practice and further study. Anonymity and confidentiality have been maintained by the use of animated drawings to illustrate the words and voices of the participants.
This paper will offer hopeful and practical insights on ways to support children to manage their emotional communication and consequently to be happy in their learning.