Intensive Support • Ages 10-14 • Goal:
Be Active in Your Community
Action step 1.
Explore interests through community programs.
Community programs offer good ways to explore interests and make connections outside of home and school. Try different programs to find out what you like best:
- Do you like certain subjects, places or sensory experiences?
- Do you like to be creative?
- Do you like physical activities, like dance or sports?
Developing interests through community programs is a good step in thinking about future jobs and careers.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 2.
Plan for supports before, during and after activities.
The right supports and accommodations before, during and after activities can help you get the most from them. Activities designed for young autistic people can help you develop social skills and make connections in the community. Activities may need planning, like:
- Packing a bag the night before
- Scheduling breaks during the activity
- Having a healthy snack ready for when you get home
Resources
Words to know
Action step 3.
Transfer skills from home and school to community activities.
Skills needed to do tasks at home and school can help you get ready to be active in the community. You may need supports to do certain things on your own. Even with help, building skills promotes:
- Confidence. This means believing that you can do something.
- Motivation. This means wanting to do something.
- Teamwork. This means working with others.
You can transfer skills learned early on to a future job setting.
Resources
You’ve reached the end of the action steps for this support level and age group.
- To find services and providers in your area, visit our Resource Guide.
- For direct contact with a member of our Autism Response Team, call 1-888-AUTISM2 (1-888-288-4762) or en Español 1-888-772-9050.
- Send an email to: help@autismspeaks.org.
