Thanks to our vast experience with Autistic service users, we have been able to put together a 7 point list relating to Autism Care, on how to effectively communicate with a child with Autism. We aim to incorporate these strategies in our semi independent living projects everyday. Below we have prepared a 7 point plan.
1. Judge by character, not by diagnosis.
Just like everybody else, a young person with Autism is an individual. Remember this in all aspects of the young person’s life.
2. Don’t not ignore, talk negatively, speak unnaturally slow, or ask questions to others in the room that pertain to the young person.
A young person with Autism can usually comprehend what you are saying just fine. The listed actios are belittling and not in any way constructive.
3. Never perceive them as dumb.
Autistic people can be extremely intelligent. They do not learn in the same way as us, and maybe not as quickly either. Have patience, for when they do learn, they rarely forget.
4. Try not to judge their behavior.
The young person can get overstimulated in certain environments. They may be hypersensitive to sound and loud noises may hurt their ears. Fluorescent lights are distracting. They have a humming noise, and can pulsate. All the noises in a room can blur together and amplify, so take this into consideration when choosing my care environment.
5. Don’t be so quick to scold.
Clearly explain what the infraction was in a simple, concise manner. For instance, do not say, ‘Please clean up your bedroom.’ Tell them exactly what you want, such as ‘Please make your bed and pick up your toys”.
6. Never exclude them from activities.
Never mimic, ignore, or bully – even as a joke. Never assume that they cannot take part in certain activities. Offer them to choice and an invitation.
7. Always do your best to give the young person a choice.
Nobody enjoys being ordered about. Offer choices so they known that you value their capabilities and opinions. Make them simple and concise. Present two options or so. Too many questions or directions can get confusing. For instance, ask me if they would like to wear the blue sweater or green one, rather than asking which sweater they would like to wear.
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