Some autistic classrooms use video games to improve communication skills

By Staff Writer

Children who have an autism spectrum disorder struggle to communicate with others, but a popular form of kids' entertainment may help improve their behavior.

According to Los Angeles-based KABC, a new "scout" program that relies on video game systems has helped autistic children in Spain learn basic tasks, thus enhancing their communication skills. The news provider reports that in 16 Spanish schools, using technology like the Nintendo DS video game console successfully decreased outbursts and improved overall behavior in autistic students.

A recent article by the Quincy Herald-Whig reports that a middle school in Montana has established a video game club for its autistic students. According to the news provider, the club holds meetings where children discuss all matters related to their video game group. The club is a structured environment that allows the autistic students to interact with each other, compared to focusing solely on the teacher during lessons.

The most recent data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that an average of one in 110 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism.