Building on Strengths
It can be challenging in some cases, but when we think creatively, we can help individuals with autism identify and build on their areas of strength. In some cases, a “problem area” or “challenging behavior” can be turned into a positive trait or a job opportunity. The key is to focus on what a person can do rather than on what they cannot do.
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In many cases, our friends with autism do not fit neatly into slots, so we must think outside the box to help build on their strengths. So, for example, a young adult who is obsessed with sequential order and with putting items in their proper place has just started a job as a supervised medical records filing clerk in the rural hospital near his home.
A pre-teen with autism struggled with the loose, recreational structure of her after-school program. Her agitation turned into contentment because of her new “job” – vacuuming all the floors in the pre-school section of the after-school program. She thrives on the predictable schedule and structure of her afternoon job, and the school staff appreciates her help with their afternoon chores.
The band director and music therapist were looking at options for a junior high student who enjoyed group activities but did not have the ability to learn to play a musical instrument for band. The music therapist recommended that the young student sit in the band holding a clarinet, but that she not actually play the instrument. The young lady loved being included in the band community. In high school band, she “played” in pit percussion, helped with the quartermaster corps, and was elected band sweetheart her senior year.
A high school student with Asperger Syndrome came up with her own solution to her tendency to obsess intently about one topic. Because of her diagnosis, and because several of her friends at school were diagnosed with autism, she decided to begin researching the topic of autism. She has downloaded every episode of FAQautism.com, checks blogs about autism regularly, and has written several papers about autism in school. This enterprising young lady is making arrangements with some teachers at her school to give presentations about autism to their students. She said, “I think I understand what it is like to be on the spectrum, and I don’t get nervous about speeches, so it makes sense for me to help other people understand more about autism.”
So you can see how creative brainstorming can pay off in the long run. We welcome your input. Send us an e-mail about challenging situations or innovative solutions. talk@FAQautism.com
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. You can click on a button to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solutions. Check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. www.FAQautism.com
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