EDUCATIONAL METHODS FOR TEACHING SAFETY SKILLS TO CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AGED 5-6 IN A SPECIALIZED ENVIRONMENT BASED ON THE TEACCH MODEL

Abstract

This manuscript proposes several measures for educating 5-6 year old children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a specialized environment using the TEACCH model on safety skills. The article employs analytical, synthetic, and systematized methods of document analysis and theoretical generalization to establish the basis for the proposed measures. Safety skills are identified into five groups: recognizing safe/unsafe areas; adhering to rules through visual cues; safe movement; safe use of objects, toys, and learning materials; and seeking help. Based on this, the article proposes five measures: initial assessment and goal setting; structuring the environment and designing a visual support system; organizing the education of the five safety skill groups in structured activities; reinforcement, gradual reduction of prompting, and creation of opportunities for retention and generalization; and family collaboration in evaluating and adjusting the educational process. The measures are interconnected, aiming to help children perform safe behaviors in familiar contexts, gradually reducing their reliance on direct reminders from adults.