It is important for young adults who are more impacted to learn self-advocacy skills based on their unique needs, strengths and challenges.
Give opportunities for your loved one to state their preferences such as, “I like this,” “I don’t like that” (within reason, as long as it does not pose a safety risk). It is important to empower them and acknowledge your loved one’s right to have preferences. Anyone can share a yes or no without using spoken language. For example, they may turn their hand away or shove with their hands. They may use an assistive device or picture chart to share their preferences.
If they live in a group home or go to a day program, encourage the staff and your loved one to be able to express what food they prefer to eat. Or what kind of activity they would like to do like going to the movies.
Seek opportunities to give your loved one choices so they feel they are making decisions. You can start by offering two or three choices for something and then as they are able to gradually move to open ended choices. Like “What do you want to do this afternoon?”
Make sure your loved one has the emergency contact information for their disability officer, transportation provider or similar in their cell phone. Coach them to know to call the right person if something happens like their bus transportation does not come or to call you.
Have your loved one practice saying “No.” This is important to teach concepts like their right to privacy and to help prevent victimization. For example, they can learn to block the door if someone tries to come in at an inappropriate time. You can teach your loved one to say, “I need my privacy” as a concept in their bedroom and in the bathroom.
To avoid victimization, it is very important for your loved one to know what the correct body part names are. They need to understand how each person in their life is supposed to interact with them and if it is OK to touch them and how. It’s also important for you to understand that your loved one may misinterpret a well meaning innocent hug or gesture.
The Milestones free autism Helpdesk is here to support you and connect you with resources and information.
