Children with autism learn differently than their neurotypical peers. Over the last few decades, the education system has been trying to integrate children with autism into a regular school framework. The reality is, however, they need a completely unique method of learning that is tailored to the way their brain processes information. There are methods that make use of a structured teaching approach developed at the University of North Carolina. Designed specifically for individuals with autism, this method emphasizes visual learning, structured environments, and individual strengths. 

Here are ten effective ways to implement these strategies in learning environments for children with autism in Toronto.

1. Use Visual Schedules
   Most children with autism like visual aids. They offer a simplified, step-by-step protocol about how things should be done, that they can subsequently refine at their own pace. One of the core components of this method is visual scheduling. Daily routines are displayed in a sequence using pictures, symbols, or written words, helping autistic learners anticipate transitions and reduce anxiety.
2. Create Structured Work Systems
   It’s not uncommon for children with autism to gravitate towards fixed routines and rituals in the way they approach their tasks. Sometimes they need a little help, however, knowing exactly how much time to allocate to each task. Work systems guide learners on what tasks to do, how much to do, when they are finished, and what comes next. These systems promote independence and task completion by using visual cues and clearly defined expectations.
3. Organize the Physical Environment
   There are some offices that blend departments onto the same floor. Accounts could be sitting in the next cubicle over from sales. Some kids do their homework on the kitchen table. This philosophy does not work well with autistic individuals. They prefer their work stations compartmentalized with clear physical boundaries to help reduce distractions and increase focus. Autism-friendly classrooms often include defined areas for work, play, group activities, and relaxation, making it easier for learners to understand what is expected in each space.
4. Use Visual Instructions
   Always with the visual aids. Kids with autism can’t get enough of them. The step-by-step instruction they provide makes their daily tasks infinitely more achievable. Visual supports, such as task cards or picture sequences, can break down complex activities into manageable steps. This aligns with the visual learning strengths of many autistic individuals and supports independent learning.
5. Tailor to Individual Learning Styles
   No two children with autism are exactly alike. Each child has distinct special interests that they like to incorporate into almost everything they do. This could be stickers. This could be model trains. Run with it. The right teaching methods emphasize understanding each learner’s preferences, strengths, and challenges. Customizing activities to match these characteristics makes learning more accessible and meaningful.
6. Build Predictability
   Does your child like to know what’s coming down the pike? Do they always want to know what is going to happen next, and when? It’s not uncommon for children with autism to be like this. The predictability reduces stress for autistic learners. Modern teaching methods for children with autism work around this by incorporating routines and consistent structures that help students feel secure and better able to engage in learning.
7. Promote Independence
   You want your child to be a self-starter. The ultimate extension of independence is the ability to work without any form of supervisor. Let your child learn how to knuckle down and tackle each task at hand using nothing more than their own initiative. By incorporating clear visual cues, consistent routines, and structured tasks, TEACCH enables learners to complete activities without constant adult intervention, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-confidence.
8. Develop Functional Skills
   Most classrooms focus on the basics: Writing, reading, ‘rythmatic. However, neurodivergent children also need to learn other skills that most people take for granted. One approach emphasizes practical life skills such as dressing, cooking, and using public transportation. These skills are taught using the same visual and structured methods to prepare learners for real-world independence.
9. Encourage Work with Preferred Interests
   At Monarch House, we believe in always keeping it positive. Motivation plays a big role in learning. Modern, autism-friendly classrooms support using a student’s special interests as tools for engagement and reward, which helps maintain focus and makes learning more enjoyable.
10. Train Families and Caregivers
    When a younger child works with an older one, they learn. When an older child teaches a younger child, they learn as well. Buddy systems and cooperative play are a big part of what makes this technique successful. A key strength of modern classroom methods are its emphasis on collaboration. Families are trained to use structured teaching methods at home, ensuring consistency across settings and increasing the generalization of skills.

At Monarch House, we adopt many of the values taught in modern classrooms today and we encourage parents and caregivers to do the same at home. This method is more than a teaching strategy—it’s a philosophy that values the uniqueness of each autistic individual. At Monarch House we have a professional, interdisciplinary staff of occupational therapists, behavioural therapists, psychotherapists, and speech pathologists that are here to help. By focusing on visual supports, structure, and strengths, educators and caregivers can create environments that nurture learning, reduce anxiety, and build life skills in children with autism in Toronto. Whether in a classroom or at home, this way of thinking offers flexible and effective tools to support autism learning in a respectful and empowering way.