I am about to start my first year teaching. I will be teaching a mix of 7th and 8th graders (12-14 year olds) with High Functioning Autism and Asperger's. I am teaching Reading/Lang. Arts and Social Studies in a self contained environment.

My son has HFA but he is only 6 and I need suggestions of what works with this older age group. I know the usuals like structure, consistency, concrete langauge, visual supports, etc. What I am looking for are specific strategies that worked well for you at school at this age or for your children. Motivators, teaching techniques, calming factors, etc.

What are some general interests for students of this age for tangible positive reinforcers besides the usual computer/free time, homework passes and lunch with the teacher?

Thanks in advance for any help and insight you can give.