What is TEACCH?
Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communications Handicapped Children (TEACCH) is a structured teaching approach. It uses visual supports, physical organisation and predictable routines to support learning. The approach looks at the skills and strengths people already have, and it aims to build on these to promote development.
Who is TEACCH for?
TEACCH is for autistic people of all ages and skill levels.
What is TEACCH used for?
The TEACCH program is used to promote learning and development – in particular, cognitive skills, social skills and fine motor skills. It focuses on independence in daily activities like dressing and moving from one activity to another.
The way TEACCH is used depends on the age of the person involved. For example, a TEACCH program might focus on early developmental skills for a young child or supported employment skills for an adult.
Where does TEACCH come from?
TEACCH was developed in the mid-1960s in the United States, based on the work and theories of Eric Schopler, an autism researcher. TEACCH is based at the University of North Carolina in the United States.
What is the idea behind TEACCH?
The TEACCH program is based on the idea that autism is a form of neurodivergence.
The key idea is to teach children in a way that makes the most of their strengths and works around their areas of challenge. The teaching approach is very structured and uses clear schedules and organised environments to help children learn.
What does TEACCH involve?
Before beginning a TEACCH program, children are assessed to see where they’re at developmentally. The program is then tailored to children’s individual interests, skills and goals. For example, one child might work on simple sorting or matching tasks, while another child does maths worksheets independently.
Structured teaching is central to the program’s approach. The program uses predictable routines and an organised environment to help children understand and work through their activities. Also, each child has an individually tailored visual schedule of their own activities. As children become more skilled, they become more independent.
The TEACCH program might be done in a classroom or in an early intervention centre, and children usually learn together in classes. The classes might spend time completing individual activities at workstations, as well as doing planned activities together like group time, playtime, and snack time.
The TEACCH program can also be run in a child’s home.
Does TEACCH help autistic children?
Some research has shown positive effects on children’s social skills, cognitive and fine motor skills, but more high-quality studies are needed.
Which professionals offer TEACCH?
Professionals delivering this program need to be trained by the TEACCH organisation to become certified. This training is mainly available in the United States, but it’s also available in other countries. In Australia, individual professionals might be certified by TEACCH.
Where can you get TEACCH?
In Australia, a few schools offer TEACCH. Contact the TEACCH Autism Program for more information.
If you’re interested in this program, you could talk about it with your NDIA planner, early childhood partner or local area coordinator, if you have one.
How are parents involved in TEACCH?
If your child is taking part in a TEACCH program, you’re an important part of the program and are expected to play an active role. Your child’s therapist will give you information and support.
How much does TEACCH cost?
The cost of this therapy varies depending on the service provider. You can contact the NDIS to find out whether you can include the cost of using TEACCH in children’s NDIS plans.
Therapies and supports for autistic children range from behavioural therapies and developmental approaches to medicines and alternative therapies. When you understand the main types of therapies and supports for autistic children, it’ll be easier to work out the approach that will best suit your child.