When designing a unit on early literacy skills for a pre-kindergarten student with autism, what should be the primary focus in selecting teaching methods?

In designing a unit on early literacy skills for a pre-kindergarten student with autism, the primary focus should be on providing individualized instruction that caters to the student's unique sensory and communication needs. This approach is crucial because students with autism often exhibit diverse learning styles and preferences that necessitate tailored teaching methods. Utilizing tools like visual schedules helps provide structure and predictability, which can alleviate anxiety and enhance engagement. Social stories are valuable in teaching social norms and expectations, making them effective for a child's understanding of interpersonal interactions. Both of these methods can be crucial for aiding comprehension and interaction in literacy activities, thus fostering a supportive learning environment that is responsive to the child's needs. This individualized approach acknowledges the importance of adapting instruction to accommodate the specific challenges and strengths of students with autism.