FAQautism

Although some individuals with autism are quite self-sufficient, others are limited in their abilities to care for themselves. But even people with significant limitations can lend a helping hand at home or school if given a chance. It is simply a matter of discovering a person’s strengths and giving them opportunities to be in charge.

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The family of a young adult who is non-verbal and lacks the skills necessary for independent living has taken this philosophy to heart. Family members realized that, in spite of some limitations, this young man was the only person in the family with an excellent memory. He is very proud of his role of remembering important events. The young man is in charge of taking laundry out of the dryer, turning on the alarm clocks every evening, remembering the schedule for watering plants inside and outside, locking the front door and turning out the porch light every night, and reminding his brother about feeding and watering the pets. His family really depends on his help.

Granted, some individuals with autism are capable of much more sophisticated tasks and others would not be able to complete even one of those tasks independently. But the key is to find the gifts of each individual, to help nurture and improve those skills, then find ways for them to use their gifts in a way that contributes to the community.

It may be that a student can lead their class to the lunchroom or pick out a book for circle time. Maybe an individual can turn out the light when the class leaves for recess or carry a lunch box for a classmate who is unable to hold the box. Maybe they can push the dust mop around the house or bring the mail in from the mailbox. Maybe they can put the clothes in the washer or pull them out of the dryer into a basket.

TIP FOR THE DAY: This need not be a time-consuming or challenging process. The point is to give people a chance to feel as if they are useful and needed, and scouting out opportunities for our friends with autism, even those with significant limitations, to provide a helping hand.

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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