FAQautism

When we spend time with a person every day, we can inadvertently overlook strengths or simply not notice tiny steps of progress in target areas because we are focusing intently on areas of need. An important component of maximizing the quality of life of individuals with autism is to purposefully take time each day to recognize and acknowledge areas of strength and ability.

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A youngster in an elementary classroom for youngsters with autism and other disabilities was having trouble with his hands – grabbing objects from other kids, pinching and hitting other kids and adults, and grabbing arms, hands, and faces of other people. Although he was gradually learning to be a “good sitter” with his hands on his knees, the progress had been very slow over the years. And the progress in this target area had been somewhat obscured by the development of a new behavior – that of loudly repeating every word or sound he heard in the classroom. Adults began focusing on that new disruptive behavior and failed to realize that the youngster’s grabbing and pinching in group activities had decreased from an average of twenty times in fifteen minutes to less than three times in fifteen minutes. Of course, once they realized their oversight, the teachers began systematically praising this youngster for “quiet hands” and for being a “good sitter” while at the same time introducing some strategies for decreasing his loud, disruptive echolalia.

When he moved to a new high school, a non-verbal teenager began participating in some new group activities with his typical peers. He had participated in similar activities in his previous school, but the new environment, new people, and new experiences seemed to trigger a notable improvement in his receptive language. Teachers, parents, and therapists were very focused on helping him transition to the new setting as well as continuing the IEP goal of encouraging him to develop expressive language. One day, one of his high school friends alerted the adults to the rather dramatic increase in his language comprehension by saying, “You know, I think Dustin understands every word we say. Just look at how he nods, looks, and laughs at just the right time. And he does exactly what others say without any reminders. I think Dustin is really smart…he understands whate we say to him…he just doesn’t know how to talk back.”

We invite you to join the conversation. Share your thoughts about recognizing progress. 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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