Tackling Challenges
How do we go about tackling challenges that come up in the daily lives of individuals with autism? Whether they are big or small, issues can get out of hand if we wait around for a planning meeting or wait until we put a formal plan into place. What steps can we take so we aren’t just chasing problems around the room, trying to put out fires as they blaze up unexpectedly?
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Most successful strategies for tackling challenging issues have five key components. We will use the example of a person with autism who does not follow instructions.
(1) PINPOINT THE PROBLEM. Figure out what is wrong. Take a close look at the situation and determine what exactly is preventing the individual from following a direction. Are they paying attention? Do they understand the words? Do they understand what is expected of them and when? Do they know the consequences of incompliance? Do they care?
(2) SAY IT CLEARLY. State exactly what behavior you expect in specific terms. No need to use lengthy explanations or to use extra words. Use photos or a picture schedule if the individual will focus on visual cues. Avoid nagging, steer clear of threats, and don’t say “don’t!”
(3) SET UP FOR SUCCESS. Systematically encourage the desired behavior. Remove all distractions and help the individual focus on responding to the direction. Don’t expect perfection – help them move gradually toward the goal.
(4) FOLLOW THROUGH. If you really want to teach a person to follow directions, you must be consistent. Tell them exactly what you want them to do, and then stand there with an expectant look on your face until the task is complete. Make certain you praise and reward appropriate behavior.
(5) BEGIN AGAIN. If the strategy doesn’t work or if a behavior plan quits working, then take a step back, look at the situation, and try again. Don’t blame “failure” on the individual with autism or on yourself or on the person next door. And don’t wait until disaster strikes. If we notice things are going downhill, that just means we need to make some adjustments and begin moving forward again.
Granted, favorable outcomes can be elusive, and all our efforts can go down the drain in spite of the most systematic, success-oriented plans. But, the key is to “keep on keeping on.” Take a look at point #5 again, and take it to heart.
We hope you will join the conversation. Please share successes and failures. Share strategies that have worked for you and those that have fallen flat. We can learn so much from each other. Just click on the comments button or send an e-mail to 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. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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