Question:

I  have an 8 year old with HFA and he may need a little help in math.  now that he is in 3rd grade he is doing long addition and subtraction.  He states that he hates it and complains but does it.  I am wondering if you have a way that he could get more math practice in and maybe get a little learning in as well.  He is in school full time and I have no idea when he could do this and maybe not until over summer break but do you have any idea about helping an autistic child with his math??

Answer:

Thanks for writing. The issue with math is that it has multiple steps and requires strong working memory which are both challenges for people on the spectrum due to their over-all executive functioning deficits. One very helpful tool for math is an example of the steps with the words written out. There are also acronyms for the various math processes which should be easy to find. Here is a good link for some ideas.

http://www.lessonplanspage.com/mathlongdivisionwithacronymidea45-htm

You will find many more on-line. LDOnline is also a great place to look for interesting ways to learn processes.

Often teachers use effective strategies at school but do not share it with the parents. Be sure to ask your teacher what strategies they are using at school. Your resource teacher should know these and if not, share it.