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HOME BASED PLANS FOR PARENTS with KIDS with Autism

October 02, 2023

by Alyson ShafferM.Ed. BCBA Owner

Implementing home-based autism plans and utilizing applications can be beneficial in providing consistent support and intervention for children with autism. Here are some ideas recommended by Solving Autism for home-based strategies and applications that parents can use to help their children with autism:

 

Visual Schedules and Timers:

Use visual schedules to outline the daily routine and activities. This can help the child understand what to expect throughout the day, reducing anxiety.

Timer apps can be used to visually represent the passage of time and prepare the child for transitions between activities.

 

Communication and Language Support:

Communication apps like Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, or PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) can assist non-verbal or minimally verbal children in expressing their needs and wants.

Practice and encourage the use of gestures, sign language, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to aid communication.

 

Social Skills and Play:

Social skills apps like Social Stories Creator, Stories About Me, or Model Me Going Places can help teach social cues and appropriate behaviors.

Engage in interactive play with the child to model and reinforce social skills, turn-taking, and cooperation.

 

Behavior Management:

Utilize token economy apps like iRewardChart or Choiceworks to reinforce positive behaviors and track progress toward rewards.

Implement a First-Then schedule to help the child understand the sequence of tasks and expectations.

 

Sensory Integration:

Sensory apps like Sensory Baby Toddler Learning or Sensory Play can provide sensory stimulation or relaxation based on the child’s preferences.

Create a sensory-friendly environment at home by providing sensory toys, calming areas, and noise-reducing headphones.

 

Educational Apps:

Numerous educational apps cater to different learning levels and subjects. Look for apps that align with the child’s interests and needs, such as ABCmouse, Khan Academy Kids, or Starfall.

 

Fine Motor Skills:

Fine motor skill apps like Dexteria or Handwriting Without Tears can help improve hand-eye coordination and writing skills.

Engage in arts and crafts activities that promote fine motor development, such as coloring, cutting, and playdough.

 

Self-help Skills:

Use apps like Choiceworks Calendar or First Then Visual Schedule to assist in teaching self-help skills like dressing, brushing teeth, and washing hands.

Establish routines and use visuals to prompt and support the child in completing daily tasks independently.

 

Parent Training Apps:

Some Apps are designed to provide parent training, offering guidance and strategies for managing specific behaviors or challenges. Examples include Parenting Hero and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.

Remember that each child with autism is unique, and not all strategies or apps will work for every individual. It’s essential to observe your child’s reactions and progress and adjust the approaches accordingly. Additionally, consult with professionals, such as behavior analysts or therapists, to ensure that the interventions align with the child’s specific needs and goals.

 

Parent Support Groups:

Solving Autism is now offering Parent Support Group sessions at our clinics to help educate parents with these plans and additional programs.

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