August 17, 2019
For the development of children with autism, keeping them motivated
is very important. Due to their condition, this may not be an easy thing to
do and require efforts and use of strategies.
Although all children on the autism spectrum are different, there are some
common characteristics that exist such as issues in using and understanding
language, social interactions, sensory needs, difficulty in following
specific instructions etc.
These characteristics can affect the academic and social life of the children
while also impacting their development. It becomes crucial for parents,
family members and even teachers to try and understand the children
individually and work with them according to their needs and abilities.
Children work well when they are praised and appreciated often as it helps
them feel successful and happy. Being supported by their parents in various
activities also helps them feel loved and secure although they may not be
able to show their feelings.
To ensure that children with ASD or other developmental disorders continue
growing and learning skills, they should be encouraged even if they are
resistant and reluctant to taking interest in learning.
Nisha is a mother who shared her insights with Newzhook
about using the magic of praise on her son.
My son loves to be appreciated and likes it when we applaud, clap and cheer
for him. He is a fast learner and loves to learn things on his own. When we
are trying to introduce a new topic, I start with a little revision of
things he knows already and then follow it with new skills. This has helped
him get used to doing new things at his own pace. Nisha,
Parent
Here are some things parents can do to support their children.
Understand what autism means and how it impacts the life of children on
the spectrum.
Get to know the children better and understand the strengths and
weaknesses they possess.
Notice the activities that trigger frustration and cause the children to
avoid tasks.
Help the children learn new skills by knowing their interests, likes and
dislikes.
Give ample time to children to understand a skill or activity and do not
rush.
Understand how the child likes to learn, orally, visually, through
practical, videos, or example etc.
Encourage through positive motivation and kind, gentle words and
gestures.
Do not compare your child with other children.
Create a positive learning atmosphere and be patient.
Encourage the children to explore and learn on their own.
Avoid interference and criticism when the child is learning.
Let them make mistakes and correct them without making them feel bad.
Respect the abilities of the child and understand the limitations.
Be supportive, affectionate and motivating at whatever the child is
doing.
Vijayalakshmi Sridhar a parent and educator uses fun, play
and learn method with children.
“Daily we engage children to activities for set of time period. First do play
way method like catching ball, hopping, jumping etc. for 15 minutes then give
a break and do academic activities for 30 minutes. Then do socialization
skills that include engage with same age group children so our kids learn
peer behaviors and play way techniques,” she says.
Parents have to remember that their behavior has life changing impact on
their children. Children are dependent on the grownups when it comes to
learning skills. By setting good examples we can help the children get a more
positive perspective in life that will help them cope as they grow.
ALSO READ:
Parenting Corner –
Keeping children with autism hydrated
Source: https://newzhook.com/story/parenting-corner-motivating-children
