1 minute read
Transition Tips
from Transition Book
by Malvern News
There are many ways in which Autistic individuals can be supported. A team of amazing champions in my boys life have contributed to their successful transition through 14 years of school.
Below reflects my top tips for support staff that can help Autistic individuals reach their full potential and experience success at high school and into Employment.
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Simplify your language (i.e., reduce the length of phrases and sentences, and choose words that are easier to understand. Instead of “So in a few minutes we’re going to finish this activity, you are going to pack up, then we’re going to start another job …”. Say something like “Nathan, 5 more minutes… activity finished… then another job.”)
Consider and accommodate sensory challenges (i.e., provide quiet spaces, headphones, consider lighting, temperature and background noise).
Provide a visual and an oral schedule (i.e., make a daily schedule visible and talk about it).
Use a calendar to show events, trips, and timetable changes (i.e., have a term calendar visible and refer to it regularly)
Use written words to communicate during stressful times (i.e., having a handheld whiteboard/ pen and paper available can support)
Use “first‐then” strategy (e.g., “First we finish this job/ activity, Then we are going to start the next job/activity (show with visual too.”)
Use the phrase, “the rule is……” (e.g., “the rule is… we ask, when …”).
Be consistent, clear, and direct when you talk (e.g., “In 2 minutes, I want you to stop…”) and say what’s next.
Give me choices (e.g., for a librarian role “do you want to do shelving before or after returns?”).
Catch me doing the right thing (e.g., “Thank you Nathan, I love it when you…”).
Other key factors that have supported Nathan’s success are – o Motivated o Compassionate peers/mentors who are excellent communicators o Receptive to learning about how to support Nathan’s learning style/way of thinking.
An important and really effective support that can help in employment and community activities.
