Identify deficits. Autism varies from child to child, and each individual has different delays and issues. Children with language delays may need pictures to help them interpret what comes next and what they need to do. Picture cards can also help them communicate needs to the teacher if the child can't talk. Behavioral problems require more attention and supervision in order to prevent meltdowns and injuries. Motor delays require accommodations such as help up stairs or assistance holding a pencil. Make sure the child is set up for success by reaching the child at their current developmental level.
Address sensory issues. Sensory problems are extremely common in autistic children, interfering with learning. Autistic children may need special seats to sit in a chair, they may be oversensitive to lighting and require dimmer surroundings. They may be aversive to certain textures, such as paint, water or sand. With the help of an occupational therapist, identify any sensory problems and create a plan to address them so the child has no sensory-related distractions to interfere with learning.
Just play. Incorporate lessons into the child's play with toys. If the child plays with cars, be creative in teaching them using the object. Teach him colors by labeling each car. Have the child mimic the sound the car makes. Give the child instructions on where the car should go to help them learn how to follow directions. Use the child's goals to determine what to teach, then use the toy they choose to help them learn.
Try discrete trial training. Break down a single goal, such as imitation, and work on that alone. Discrete trial training involves repeating the trial of repeating the task over and over again several times and noting the response. Give praise or rewards every time the child does what he is supposed to do, and try again every time he doesn't.
Take cues from the child. Don't force them into anything, as autistic children are very strong-willed. If they do not want to participate in a given activity, take a break and try again later. Creating a situation where the child melts down leads to a complete halt in learning, and tantrums are much more severe in autistic children than in the typical population.