Read the case study about Jasmin, then complete the Responding to Sexual Behavior Tool.  Reflect on your responses with a colleague.

Jasmin is a kindergarten student and new to the school and classroom. She can speak but does not communicate with others and struggles to follow simple instructions. Jasmin pays little attention to peers and adults and prefers to be alone. Teachers have been trying to learn more about what Jasmin enjoys doing at home so they can engage her in more activities while at school. Jasmin’s favorite activity is throwing things—toys, cups, and various other objects. The family’s pediatrician told Lauren and Tyler, Jasmin’s parents, that Jasmin “probably has autism” and recommended they have further evaluation by the school psychologist. Lauren and Tyler were angry when this happened, and have said they are going to, “find a new doctor.” The school continues to work with the family, but teachers are finding it increasingly challenging to engage and support Jasmin’s learning.

Over the past few months, Jasmin frequently displays concerning sexual behaviors. She will put her hands down her pants and touch her genitals in a self-stimulatory way. The teachers report that this occurs during free choice time, when Jasmin likes to hang out in the bean bag area. The other students notice and some will say things like, “I don’t want to be near nasty Jasmin.” In the bathroom, Jasmin tries to quickly strip off all of her clothes. When the teachers try to help Jasmin get dressed or try to redirect her from touching her genitals, Jasmin becomes agitated and will smack people in the face. Her teachers report that they have tried to redirect the behaviors and are using social stories, but things have not gotten better.

Responding: In the Moment

Pause

 

Redirect

 

Listen

 

Teach

 

Responding: After the Fact

Reflect

 

Prepare

 

Communicate