Attention Autism is an intervention approach by Speech and Language Therapist Gina Davies which aims to work on the early fundamentals of language including awareness of others, attention, listening, shared attention, switching attention and turn-taking.
Attention skills are an integral part of how we connect with people, the world around us and how we learn. These early skills can be particularly difficult for children with Autism. Gina Davies suggests that the answer is to make your interactions irresistible by using activities that are worthy of the child’s attention. If the child is having fun, they will be more likely to join in and engage.
Aims of Attention Autism
- To engage attention in adult-led activities
- To improve joint attention and to develop shared enjoyment in group activities
- To encourage spontaneous interaction in a natural group setting
- To increase non-verbal and verbal communication through commenting
- To build a wealth and depth of vocabulary
- To have fun!
Stage 1: FOCUS- The Bucket
This is to gain pupils’ attention with an anticipated adult led activity using exciting toys or objects.
Stage 2: SUSTAIN- The attention builder
Demonstration of an engaging activity that has a sequence building to a final fantastic experience. This can be as long or short as you like depending on attention levels.
Stage 3: SHIFT- Interactive game
Once the children are attending to an adult led activity for a longer period, it is time to begin modelling turn-taking skills and how to shift attention from self to the rest of the group.
Stage 4: 1, 2 & 3 TRANSITIONS- Table top activity
Once they have reached stage 4, it is time to practise attending to a self-led activity. The children should watch a demonstration of the activity carried out by an adult, take their pack of resources, go to their own space and carry out the activity independently. The focus should be on the progress and attention rather than the end result. The children should then come back together and share in celebrating the end result!