Seniors, 2010
It is hard to believe that some of our youngsters with autism are getting ready to walk across the stage in cap and gown in a few weeks. It seems like just yesterday they were toddlers. Time flies. How can we help our high school graduates transition to life in the “real world?”
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Some graduates with autism will go to college or get a job and live independently. But others will need some assistance transitioning from a student to an adult. Consider these five helpful hints, particularly if your graduate is a young adult who will require on-going assistance and supervision in life.
1. DAILY ROUTINE. Most school programs are very structured and predictable, but many home situations are the opposite. Typical young adults would probably like a chance to just hang around and do nothing for days on end, but our friends with autism usually thrive on a predictable routine.
2. RESPITE. Some adults with autism are relatively independent, but are unable to stay alone at all or only for a short time. Even if families don’t anticipate needing it, they may want to consider advance planning for respite care.
3. EXERCISE. Sometimes we forget about physical health for our young adult friends with autism. Exercise helps boost spirits, decrease boredom, and improve overall health.
4. FRIENDS. After high school graduation, most young adults lose contact with long-time school friends. If they just sit around the house, recent graduates with autism can become very isolated.
5. LEISURE TIME. Although most teenagers wish they had more leisure time, free time quickly turns into boredom after high school graduation. Family members can help decrease boredom and increase contentment by planning in advance to help individuals with autism fill that leisure time productively.
TIP FOR THE DAY: Start considering these issues now, before graduation, to help young adults get a successful start on this new phase in their life. And please extend our best wishes – Cathy and Dwight of FAQautism.com send greetings to all 2010 graduates ☺
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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