Reading comprehension in ASD

[Anonymous]

Level 1 ASD and in a mainstream private in 7th grade now and seeing that no matter what DS cannot seem to keep up with reading due to comprehension. Is there any specific kind of tutoring, books, or program to help with this?

[Anonymous]

Can he keep up with some types of reading better than others?

My DS hates fiction and basically didn’t really pay attention to it. But he really loves non-fiction as well as simpler fiction that is more character based than narrative/emotional (eg comic books).

I would say keep it simple and focus on supporting the homework he has now instead of looking for a therapy (that probably doesn’t exist). The good news is that unlike other subjects, it will probably be pretty feasible for you and the other parent to sit down with him with his book report or whatever and prompt him to figure out the answer.

Last thing is that a lot of the homework/classwork in English classes at that grade is unbearably dull. He may very well be able to read a novel that engages him on his own. But answering tedious questions like “hoe does the author use the setting to convey the story?” may be so boring he just cannot answer well.

[Anonymous]

If you do want to try tutoring, there are a few CALT in the area who specialize in working with kids with ASD. You can call ASDEC and ask for a referral.

[Anonymous]

There are specialized reading programs that work on this, but you will need to find someone trained to implement one.

[Anonymous]

What are the specialized reading programs?