How to Teach an Autistic Child Life Skills

Children with autism must develop life skills to function in society, both during childhood and adulthood. Teaching these skills, such as personal hygiene and money management, to children is challenging but it can be incredibly rewarding. With the proper tools, training and knowledge you can equip a child with the confidence and ability to succeed in a world that would otherwise overwhelm him.

Instructions

• 1

  Develop an educational curriculum that addresses the child's specific needs. No two children with autism are alike, so it's crucial to familiarize yourself with a child's strengths and weaknesses before implementing a life skills program.

• 2

  Use picture cards to help a child to identify common objects, like foods and signs. Picture cards are also a useful tool in teaching kids how to identify human emotions. Picture cards, much like flash cards, are most effective when used consistently.

• 3

  Rely on virtual reality to provide your child with crucial life skills, like how to safely cross the street. Some scientific studies indicate that classroom activities fail to effectively transfer such skills to children. These studies further suggest that computer programs can provide children with the knowledge necessary to translate virtual skills into real life action.

• 4

  Purchase toys that teach children life skills. Play kitchens, play cash registers, play cleaning supplies and similar toys help children with autism learn to engage in crucial life activities.

• 5

  Supplement your one-on-one life skills lessons with videos specifically designed for children with special needs. Much like computer-based learning models, videos that teach basic skills, like toothbrushing, potty training and dressing, may be more effective than teaching that relies on personal interaction.

• 6

  Be consistent. Children with autism must operate in an orderly, scheduled environment to thrive. Plan daily activities carefully, established consistent sleeping and waking times, meal times and play times. Utilize a calendar or day planner and a clock or watch for planning. Include the child in the scheduling process, which will teach him to keep track of time.

• 7

  Create an environment that fosters learning. Minimize distractions, such as background noise and other factors that may induce stress. Avoid unwanted physical contact with the child, but maintain eye contact at all times. Use a soft voice and provide positive reinforcement whenever appropriate.