Patience vital, says teacher

DESPITE teaching students with special needs for the past nine years, teaching autistic students was something completely new and different for Suva Special School teacher Tara Ligamiri.

“During my nine years, I have only taught hearing impaired and communication delays, and last year when I was posted to Suva Special School, it was very challenging for me,” she said.

She said it was important to be patient and caring in order to attract the attention of students with autism.

“We, teachers have to be very vigilant with them as they do things which amazes you and sometimes motivates us.

“Despite having eight years of experience, when given a class with a few autism students, I found myself failing.

“As an experienced special school teacher, one of the things I had to do was to stop and reflect on my knowledge and skills.”

She said self-reflection allowed her to evaluate ways to assist and support students with autism.

“I was able to seek assistance required to improve the educational approaches for the students.

“I decided to consult the experienced colleagues and seek educational support from the speech and language specialists specialising in autism.

“By researching, seeking professional guidance and support, I was able to not only improve the education experience of an autistic child, but other students as well.”

She urged parents and educators to undertake research and ask questions as it would help change the lives of those living with autism.

The Suva Special School currently has 30 students with autism.