Building independence skills at school

Independence is a key developmental milestone for all children, including those with autism.

Achieving a level of self-sufficiency and independence is important as it enhances personal wellbeing and promotes community engagement and future employability. Incorporating these skills into everyday life at home, school and in the community enables faster skill-building and increased confidence in children.

Challenges to independence for autistic students

Autistic children and teens often face many challenges when it comes to developing independence, which can include:

Organisational difficulties

‍Organisational tasks can be a significant challenge as they often involve executive functioning, which can be difficult for some children. These tasks can be overwhelming as children try to understand what is expected and how to do what’s required.

Distractibility

‍Internal and external distractions significantly affect children's ability to complete tasks independently. They may struggle to prioritise sensory information, leading to difficulty maintaining focus without supervision.

Problems with sequencing

Some autistic children may have difficulty comprehending the sequence of tasks or steps, which can make it challenging to follow procedures without direct assistance, leading to critical steps being missed.

Generalisation issues

Autistic students might perform a task independently in one setting but fail to replicate it in a new environment. This lack of generalisation makes it difficult to apply the skills they’ve learned more broadly.

Practical strategies to support independence

Adopting some of the below specific strategies can help build the independence skills of children and teens with autism:

Structured learning environments

‍Establish a clear, structured learning environment where tasks are presented consistently to help students understand expectations and reduce reliance on adult intervention.

Focused skill development

‍Teach skills that are directly related to independent task completion. This includes practical organisational skills, effective time management, and step-by-step problem-solving.

Consistent positive reinforcement

‍Use consistent positive reinforcement to encourage and reward independent efforts. Regularly recognising small successes can motivate children and build their confidence.

Peer modelling

‍Utilising peer modelling techniques, such as having siblings, family members, or friends demonstrate tasks, can help clarify the steps involved and motivate students to replicate the behaviour independently.

Technological tools

‍Use technology designed to support organisational and planning skills. There are lots of apps and software available that are tailored specifically to help support these skills. These can be used both at home and school to support a child’s needs.

Build communication skills

‍For some children who struggle with verbal communication, it’s important to look at alternative communication methods to support them. Alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) tools include Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), speech-generating devices like iPads, and even sign language can help. Using these aids, children can improve their ability to express their needs, desires, and feelings and reduce frustrations.

Using visual schedules

‍Transitioning between activities can often be a source of stress for children with autism. A visual schedule can ease these transitions by providing clear visual prompts about the day's activities. This tool not only aids in reducing reliance on others to move between tasks but also strengthens decision-making skills and encourages engagement in preferred activities.

Encouraging breaks and self-regulation

‍It is vital to teach children to identify when they feel overwhelmed and to ask for a break. Simple tools like a “break” button on communication devices or a specific picture in their PECS book can empower children to manage their sensory needs. Identifying a quiet space for breaks or providing sensory-regulating tools like headphones can further help them regain control and comfort.

Independence skills

There are so many skills children and teens need to learn to build their independence. Let’s explore some of them below:

Self-care skills

Skills such as brushing teeth, combing hair, dressing, and personal hygiene are crucial for any child's independence. Breaking down these skills and regularly incorporating them into a child’s daily routine can help them learn them over time. These skills are even more important during adolescence and puberty, so starting early gives children time to master them.

Household chores

Participating in household chores teaches responsibility and integrates children into family routines, building teamwork and task completion skills. Breaking down chores into manageable steps (task analysis) and using tools like a job chart can provide structure and make the learning process engaging and fun.

Money management skills

Understanding and using money is a crucial skill for independent living. Introducing money handling as part of a child’s education plan and practising transactions in real-life scenarios, like during shopping, can boost their confidence and understanding of how to manage money.

Transport and safety skills

As children grow, it is important to ensure they understand and can navigate their community safely. Teaching them about pedestrian safety, how to identify safety signs, and the use of public transport can really increase their independence.

Leisure and recreational skills

Participating in leisure activities that match a child's interests such as swimming, martial arts, or music groups can enhance their life and build social skills. Encouraging these activities can help in transforming their hobbies into social opportunities.

Tips to teach independence skills

Set realistic expectations: Always challenge your child within their capabilities and be mindful of their individual needs. Ensure they have the necessary skills to do what you are asking them to do.
‍Establish achievable goals: Set both short-term and long-term goals that are achievable and specific, such as independently removing socks or dressing entirely.
‍Start early and keep practising: Starting early and allowing lots of practice opportunities can reinforce skills and boost confidence.
Be consistent: - Use similar strategies at home, school, and in the community to ensure skills are generalised and reinforced.
‍Use tools and visual aids: Visual schedules and social stories can provide clear guidance and expectations, helping children understand the steps involved in each task.
Reward independent behaviours: Positive reinforcement can encourage the continuation of independent actions and behaviours. This can be through praise, encouragement or physical rewards.
‍Seek professional support: Speak with your child’s team of therapists, clinicians and educators to seek support in teaching independence skills. These could form part of your child’s NDIS plan or IEP at school. Skills can then be integrated into everyday activities and generalised across different settings. Professionals can also help by providing strategies and adjustments to make learning more effective.

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