Teachers of Eden Angels School, Sanguem Attends Two-Day Autism Spectrum Sensitisation Programme

Empowering teachers with knowledge, understanding, and early-intervention skills

At Eden Angels School, Sanguem, we believe that every child deserves a nurturing, compassionate, and supportive learning environment. As part of our continuous commitment to inclusive education, Our teachers and chief Coordinator recently attended a Two-Day Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Sensitisation Programme, organised by Ahaan Foundation.

This specialised training equipped our pre-primary and primary teachers with essential knowledge about early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder, understanding children’s emotional and psychological needs, and adopting classroom strategies that support diverse learners.

🔹 What Is the Autism Spectrum Sensitisation Programme?

The Autism Sensitisation Programme is a structured training specifically designed to:

• Introduce teachers to what Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is

• Equip educators to identify early signs of ASD in young children

• Build sensitivity, understanding, and patience while handling children with diverse developmental needs

• Provide guidance on how schools can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment

The programme emphasised that teachers are not expected to diagnose autism, but rather to recognise signs early and refer children for professional assessment and intervention.

🔹 Key Concepts Teachers Learned During the 2-Day Training

1.⁠ ⁠Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Teachers gained a foundational understanding of ASD as a developmental condition that affects:

• Learning

• Communication

• Behaviour

• Social Interaction

They also learned that autism varies from child to child, making early identification and personalised support essential.

2.⁠ ⁠Early Signs of Autism in Young Children

The session highlighted common indicators that teachers may observe in the classroom, including:

• Limited eye contact

• Preferring to play alone

• Not responding to their name

• Delayed speech

• Sensitivity to loud sounds, touch, or light

• Strong attachment to certain objects

• Repetitive behaviours or unusual play patterns

• Difficulty coping with routine changes

This knowledge empowers teachers to flag concerns early for further evaluation.

3.⁠ ⁠Effective Classroom Strategies for Children with ASD

Teachers were trained on practical, easy-to-implement classroom strategies, such as:

• Maintaining a calm, structured environment

• Giving clear and simple instructions

• Avoiding sensory overload (bright lights, noise, strong smells)

• Allowing children to follow their own pace for social interactions

• Demonstrating social skills like greetings and turn-taking

• Using visual, verbal, or written prompts to guide transitions

• Offering alternative assessment methods such as oral exams, MCQs, or visual activities

• Ensuring the classroom routine remains stable and predictable

These techniques help children feel safe, confident, and understood.

4.⁠ ⁠How Teachers Should Respond if They Notice ASD Symptoms

The trainers emphasised a compassionate, step-by-step approach:

• Stay Calm – never panic or label the child

• Observe Closely – document behaviours over time

• Seek Professional Help Early – refer to developmental specialists

• Follow Therapeutic Guidance – support recommended therapies

• Build a Support Network – work with parents and caregivers

This helps create a collaborative approach to the child’s well-being.

🔹 How This Training Benefits Our Teachers.

1.⁠ ⁠Stronger Teacher Awareness and Sensitivity

Our teachers are now more capable of recognising developmental differences and approaching them with empathy and understanding.

2.⁠ ⁠Better Classroom Management

With new techniques for communication, routine-setting, and behavioural support, teachers can create a more harmonious and inclusive classroom environment.

3.⁠ ⁠Early Identification Leads to Early Intervention

This training allows our school to identify children who may need extra support much earlier, ensuring timely professional help.

4.⁠ ⁠More Inclusive Education Practices

The programme empowers Eden Angels School to cater to the needs of all children—helping us move towards a truly inclusive education system.

5.⁠ ⁠Parents Gain Confidence in the School

When teachers are trained and sensitised, parents feel assured that their children are in the hands of knowledgeable and caring educators.

🔹 Our Commitment Going Forward

At Eden Angels School, Sanguem, we remain committed to:

• Building inclusive classrooms

• Supporting emotional and psychological wellbeing

• Collaborating with parents and professional experts

• Ensuring that every child learns in a loving, safe, and supportive environment

The Autism Sensitisation Programme has strengthened our understanding, enriched our teaching approaches, and reaffirmed our dedication to nurturing every child.

Our teachers receiving Certificate after completion of training