A resource pack for school staff

If you work in a mainstream or special needs school, you will inevitably come across instances of bullying from time to time. While most schools have a clear policy for dealing with bullying, it may not always take account of the needs of pupils with with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), who are among the pupils at greatest risk of being bullied.

This information sheet is for young people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The information sheet explains what bullying is, what you can do if you are being bullied and how to get support.

The National Autistic Society Autism Helpline often receives calls from parents and carers asking about ways of promoting inclusion and interaction with peers, for their child with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This information sheet provides a brief overview of a strategy called the Circle of Friends approach, which is used mainly in mainstream schools.

This is an extract from The National Autistic Society's publication, Helping young children with autism to learn. The full publication is a practical and accessible book, written to help parents at home and staff in schools and nurseries understand and meet the needs of children ages 3 - 7 who have an autism spectrum disorder.

Top tips on supporting children with autism plus further free resources including books, case studies, webinars and much more from The National Autistic Society.

Dr Wendy Bellis is a paediatric dentist who has been working for over 20 years with the families of children who are on the autistic spectrum. Wendy has written this article based on her experience and feedback from families whose children have grow up under her care. Wendy is speaking at the NAS Professionals Conference in March on this subject.