Speech and Language

Attention Autism

This approach by Gina Davis includes activities which are motivating, a shared experience and worth communicating about. The approach helps children to understand and respond to a structured, adult directed routine. It gives children an irresistible invitation to engage in an adult directed activity. 

Attention Autism is an approach which can be useful for all children with attention and listening difficulties, not just those with a diagnosis of Autism.

Attention Autism will help support and build attention and listening skills. It will also support and develop your child’s social communication skills, such as taking turns or using vocalisations.

Attention Autism Top Tips:

Get Prepared

  • Find a quiet space with space for everyone to sit in a horseshoe-shape
  • Prepare resources – make sure your toys work
  • Keep the toys and activities varied.

Getting Started

  • Try to avoid waiting for everybody to be ready if most of the children are sitting down and waiting
  • Use a simple visual timetable to show the sequence of activities
  • Get everyone in the room on board – all adults should be engaging with enthusiasm to attract the children’s attention
  • Have control of the toys and keep them close – children start to take turns in stage 3 and should not take turns with toys from the bucket.

During The Session

  • Appear confident and try not to rush (even if you are nervous)
  • Use simple repetitive language to make comments, rather than asking questions
  • Give time for thinking and leave gaps for the children to comment
  • Silently lead the children back to the activity without giving a verbal prompt such as “sit down”
  • Carry on regardless of the children’s behaviour - don’t let the children dictate the start and finish point of the activity
  • Work towards each stage lasting up to five minutes.

Attention Autism Approach

 The approach works because it draws on the child’s strengths:

  • Stronger visual skills than auditory skills
  • Remembering experiences with emotional impact (activities aim to be memorable and enjoyable)
  • Ability to follow logic and structure (e.g. following a predictable pattern, use of simple, repetitive language).

Who Can Help?

You can access Speech and Language support by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays).

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