Summer is a great time to work on social skills for children with autism, as they relax and play with friends. Whether at camp, play dates or during neighborhood fun, summer is full of opportunities for socialization with peers. Following are a few ways to capitalize on those natural environment “teachable moments” to help your child strengthen social interaction skills.1. Focus on Eye Contact. A good way to teach eye contact is to model the appropriate greeting or request and prompt your child to imitate your phrase. Encourage your child to look at the peer when he is talking, so that the peer knows he is talking to him.
4. Encourage Verbal Behavior. If your child is language delayed, modeling how to engage in verbal behavior during play is a great way to increase expressive language. This can start with modeling a “beep beep” while the car is driving or a “moo” while the cow is walking. Prompt your child to repeat what you are saying and remember to praise when he does.
5. Play Pretend. Sociodramatic (pretend) play is another social skill that is great to work on during summer months. You can do this with dress up costumes, masks, or just by playing games pretending to be different animals. Model the appropriate action and sounds for your child so he can imitate your movements.
Making the most out of all of these summer socialization opportunities will help give your child more confidence in school and give him more familiarity with the skills to make friends and then keep the interaction going.
Happy Summer!
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