It is vital for young adults who are more impacted to learn self-advocacy skills based on their unique needs, strengths and challenges.

It is important to acknowledge our loved one’s right to have preferences. Give opportunities for your young adult 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). 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.

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.

Explore ways to teach your young adult advocacy skills while doing everyday things such as when playing games. If your young adult misses their turn you could teach them to say or use their assistive device to signal, "Hey, it is my turn now."

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.

If your loved one is still in high school they can be present in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting or in a discussion with doctors. It’s OK if it’s just to listen till they grow more skills. Sometimes doctors will pull parents aside, but having your loved one there makes them a part of the process even if their engagement looks different.

The Milestones free autism Helpdesk is here to support you and connect you with resources and information.