Early Intervention for Children with Autism: A Case Study of the Caregivers Operated by the Program of Baan Aunrak Special Child Center

Abstract

       This research aimed to 1) study the operation of caregivers who were trained and supervised according to the Baan Aun Rak Special Child’s program, and 2) to study the developmental outcomes of autistic children who received Baan Aun Rak Special Child's Program. The target groups studied consisted of two caregivers and five autistic children. The tools used in the research were interviews with caregivers for pre-and post-operation, and the observation form for the operation of caregivers and responsive behaviors of children. The data were analyzed by content analysis, describing caregivers’ operation and developmental outcome of the children.

       The finding showed that 1) the caregivers can convey Baan Aun Rak Special Child's Program process, which are pre-operation stage, operating stage, and post-operation stage. In pre-operation stage, caregivers studied based line development of each child and used the data to plan lessons according to the objectives of Baan Aun Rak, then chose equipments, resources, and evaluation methods to suit each child’s development. Also provided an environment with the least amount of disturbances. In operating stage caregivers used variety of teaching methods that were suitable for each child.  In post-operation stage caregivers completed the activities as planned, also accessories such as toys are prepared and used in situations where the child is not participating in planned activities. The caregivers adapted activities to suit each child depending on situations. 2) the development of all 5 children with autism had an improvement in almost all aspects but at different levels. The most developed skill was response to varied activities, followed by physical, self-help, social, and language respectively.