Intensive Support • Ages 10-14 • Goal:
Develop Strengths and Self-Advocacy
Action step 1.
Use supports to help structure schoolwork.
You may need help creating a structure to help you learn. If you’re having trouble meeting certain goals, supports like reward charts, token systems and choice boards can help you with skills like:
- Organization
- Planning
- Time management
Learning to use supports now can help you prepare for later when schoolwork gets harder.
Resources
Words to know
Action step 2.
Use and adjust tools and supports in school.
You may need to adjust tools and supports depending on classes and situations at school that can help you be successful. You may have to try a few to see what works best. Talk to your parents and teachers if you need help. Tools and supports can include:
- Reward charts
- Scripts
- Sensory items
- Visual schedules
Resources
Words to know
Action step 3.
Think about how to be involved in your IEP meetings.
Many students don’t know they have an IEP team to help them be successful at school. You can be a part of the IEP team and help make decisions about your education. At IEP meetings you can:
- Meet other team members
- Share your special interests and successes
- Share your goals for the future
To get ready for the meeting:
- Ask team members what will happen at the meeting
- Plan what you want to share or ask for
- Ask for accommodations you need for the meeting
Resources
Words to know
Action step 4.
Develop self-advocacy skills at school.
Self-advocacy is an important skill for people with autism. It means asking for what you need to help you learn and be successful. School is a place where you can learn and practice this skill.
To ask for what you want and need to be successful in school:
- Use your preferred communication method
- Think about supports you need and ask for them
- Learn how to ask for help when you need it
Resources
Words to know
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.
