Virtual Learning Resources

Technology and virtual learning play a significant role in educational and behavioral programming and are needed now more than ever, often at a moment’s notice to address children’s changing needs. Yet, teachers, behavior analysts, other treatment professionals, and parents might have to spend hours trying find virtual learning resources suitable for children on the autism spectrum that are appropriate, engaging, and target functional skills.

Autism New Jersey reviewed many such resources and compiled this “best of” list to help build your virtual resource library. Don’t forget to check out general screen time tips for children with autism, too.

Virtual Learning Resources

Screen Time Tips for Children with Autism

When used in a purposeful and structured way, virtual platforms can have many advantages and provide unique learning opportunities for children with autism. There are also disadvantages, and here are some considerations to make the most of virtual learning.

Identifying screen time purpose

Many students with (and without) autism are motivated by tablets, smart phones, computers, and technology. When possible, identify if screen time is being used for academic or entertainment purposes. Clear indications of “work time” or “free time” can help to promote learning and relaxation, respectively.

Partner with families

Given the unique demands of remote learning and other demands on parents’ time, check in with families about their availability to engage in and support online learning. Then, together create a plan for their involvement that matches with their availability, abilities, and interests. At minimum, explain in advance what areas you’re targeting, and how parents can practice those skills both on and offline with their child. For example, if a virtual lesson is targeting core vocabulary words, suggest ways parents can help their child use the words at home in context. Parents may benefit from in-home strategies and remote learning tips to promote their child’s learning and create a functional remote learning space.

Generalization

It’s important to “teach beyond the screen” and promote opportunities for generalization. Generalization builds a connection between what was learned in the virtual context to different real-world environments, with different people and across different situations. Systematic planning for generalization often leads to greater skill development and builds independence.

We hope these educational resources and activities will continue to help parents, teachers, and professionals support children’s learning at home.

Experience Our Power of Connection

Autism New Jersey will continue to follow recommendations from the CDC and state Department of Health as the state begins to move through the stages of reopening.

We’re proud to say that not one call to our Helpline has gone unanswered. If you need assistance, call us at 800.4.AUTISM or information@autismnj.org or send us a message/chat with us via the link at the bottom of this page.

We remain focused on our mission to be a resource for the autism community. We recognize that there are many questions and complex considerations, and we are working hard to address these substantial issues and provide our expertise and stakeholder perspectives as plans are developed. We encourage you to regularly visit our central hub of coronavirus resources for the autism community.