Importance of Strengths and Interests

There is increasing evidence that including special interests can be a positive pathway to teaching and learning as well as a successful transition into employment. Other important positive pathways are making connections, teaching about emotions, social communication, flexibility, building on self esteem and confidence, independence as well as increasing motivation.

Special interests for many individuals provide advantages, such as being able to have exellent attention to detail and focus, can concentrate for longer periods, highly motivated as well as having exceptional knowledge about their interests.

Stephen Shore identifies special interests as “a gift… provid[ing] the educator a key towards expanding the life of an individual on the autism spectrum.” As educators, how could you incorporate and leverage the power of your students’ special interests in order to “expand their lives”.

Stephen points out Temple Grandin’s expertise in cattle processing – and how she leveraged her own special interests to pursue a career. She is a prominent proponent for the humane treatment of livestock for slaughter and the author of more than 60 scientific papers on animal behavior. Grandin is a consultant to the livestock industry, where she offers advice on animal behavior, and is also an autism spokesperson.

Many students’ special interests are wonderfully unique: washing machines, leafy green vegetables, and waste management. How can we appreciate the value in these more obscure interests and find creative ways to incorporate these genuine passions into our students’ school days? What about for long‐term employment opportunities?

Many Autistic individuals, have written books about their special interests. Learn more by clicking on the following links.

Dr Shephen Shore ‐ http://projectkeepitreal.com/stephen‐shore Temple Grandin ‐ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWCfkMfcWpk

ASD Gudelines ‐ https://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/information‐hub/resources/asd‐guideline