This text is meant as a companion for students in teacher-training, newly-qualified teachers, or for anyone teaching children with autistic spectrum disorders for the first time in a mainstream setting. Using a case-study approach, the authors: help the teacher to identify the meaning behind pupils'' actions and reactions; provide suggested responses via practical exercises and curriculum ideas; and provide signposts to other useful literature and list services and organisations which can further help the pupil. No prior knowledge of autistic spectrum disorders is required.