4.1 Principles of TEACCH

The TEACCH framework aims to maximise an individual's strengths, drawing on how autistic people tend to think and to engage with the world. Here are some key principles:

• emphasis on structure, including physical structure of the person’s environment and clearly defined routines
• harnessing skills; for instance visual skills and good memory for factual information mean that a visual schedule indicating what activities will happen, where and when, is likely to be an effective tool
• evaluation of individual support needs on a regular basis, including use of other interventions where necessary to complement the approach
• empowering parents by encouraging their full participation
• emphasis on developing independence, and generalising from learning experiences in order to master a range of everyday situations.

Maximise

Figure 1 Clear structure and visual information provide the basis for a planner to help a child with their day at school.

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This image shows a boy's planner with the heading 'Tuesdays - Autumn Term'. It shows all of his school lessons and what he'll be doing, along with any notes about what he needs to remember throughout the day.

Figure 1 Clear structure and visual information provide the basis for a planner to help a child with their day at school.