Conclusion

A Final Thought…Just Give Him the Whale and Other Tips

Just Give Him the Whale (Kluth & Schwarz, 2008) is a curriculum textbook that celebrates students’ interests and shows educators how to incorporate them to support students with autism. The book shows how to use such interests to build relationships within the classroom community and scaffold inclusion for the students with autism. A corresponding child’s book, Pedro’s Whale (Kluth & Schwarz, 2010), explains the concept further.

Video: Autism & Special Interests in the Classroom (5:23)

Author Paula Kluth, shares insights from her book.

When working with students who have (and do not have) autism, think before you act. If the child has a special toy, fidget, etc. that provides comfort and security, will you take it away? Why?

Ask yourself these questions: Is it hurting the child or anyone else? Is it interfering with learning for the child or anyone else? If the answers to these questions are “no,” then hopefully you answered that you would not take “it” away, whatever “it” may be.

If a child feels more comfortable sitting underneath the table rather than on a chair, do you make them sit on the chair anyway? Why?

Ask yourself the following questions: Is it hurting the child or anyone else? Is it interfering with learning for the child or anyone else? If the answers to these questions are “no,” then hopefully you answered that you would allow the child to sit under the table.

We all learn differently; we are all individuals, and with that comes individuality in many aspects of life. Build relationships, have patience, seek out answers, and be kind.