FAQautism

Several years ago we shared some ideas to help distract individuals who had graduated from school from the back-to-school hype. A parent whose son just graduated from high school asked if we could repeat those ideas. She said she really did not pay attention the first time because the information did not apply to her. So let us look at some ways to help smooth the way for the transition once a person with autism is out of school.

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One strategy to help with transition from school days to adulthood is to introduce a special project – a new undertaking to usher in a new phase in life. The nature of project will depend, of course, on the young adult’s interests, but here are some ideas that have worked for other people at this stage.
(1) Several graduates have planted a small fall garden to grow fresh produce for the family dinner table. The project involved visiting with a local nursery professional about container gardening so the venture could be successful in that particular climate. Container gardening is a good way to raise just a few veggies and herbs successfully without much worry.
(2) If a person can tolerate and be responsible with a pet, this might be a good transitional time to let him adopt a little kitten or puppy. If he needs a less assertive pet, he could get an aquarium.
(3) A recent graduate could begin a new learning experience – guitar lessons, car repair, ceramics, or cooking. Just hook him up with a mentor who can help him enjoy a new hobby. Check with your local music therapist for music instruction and your local community education program for more ideas.
(4) Some people simply need a one time event to distract them from the transition away
from school days. In this case, the solution can be as simple as a road trip to see a relative, a special night out to the movies, or a coupon for an ice cream cone.

TIP FOR THE DAY: A new project can be announced with a great deal of fanfare if necessary. You can mark the launch of the project on the calendar, send an e-mail “announcement” to extended family, help your friend with autism make a list of supplies needed for the project, go on a “shopping spree” to get materials, and generally mark the launch of this project with the same amount of fanfare that “back-to-school” received in the past.

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 a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. 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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