Overview
This lecture explains the TEACH program, a structured educational approach for children with autism, comparing it to ABA and outlining its key strategies.
TEACH Program Overview
- TEACH stands for Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children.
- The program focuses on structured teaching rather than traditional therapy.
- Developed at the University of North Carolina, TEACH is widely implemented on the US East Coast.
- TEACH is scientifically based but has fewer studies compared to ABA due to funding, not efficacy.
Comparison with ABA
- ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) originated on the US West Coast and is highly researched and established.
- TEACH and ABA are both well-regarded but are regionally preferred in the US (TEACH in East, ABA in West).
- Political and funding dynamics influence research and program adoption, not necessarily the quality.
Key Features of TEACH
- Emphasizes teacher-led instruction in classrooms, not therapy-based interventions.
- Encourages strong collaboration between practitioners and parents.
- Focuses on structuring the physical environment with clear divisions for activities (work, play, nap).
- Maintains strict, predictable routines to support children on the autism spectrum.
- Utilizes visual cues, such as calendars and schedules, to organize daily, monthly, or yearly activities.
Key Terms & Definitions
- TEACH program — A structured educational method for children with autism, emphasizing environment and routines.
- ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) — A therapy-based approach to autism management focused on behavior modification.
- Visual cues — Tools like calendars or charts that help children understand routines and schedules.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Visit www.nayi-disha.org for more information about autism and related services.
- Consider structuring environments and routines for children with autism as discussed in the TEACH program.