Why Homeschool A Child With Autism?

Homeschooling allows you to focus on what’s most important for your child’s learning. Unlike academic challenges, social difficulties, such as struggles in communication or inappropriate behavior, are more noticeable and often lead to negative reactions. Schools may prioritize quiet, compliant behavior and basic social skills, while we aim to teach autism children how to be a joy to their community. Our goal is big, and progress may be slow, but we focus on helping them grow in five key areas.

Communication Skills
Effective communication is central to reducing challenging behaviors like tantrums and stimming. Whether using sign language, flashcards, or other methods, focus on the most useful words for your child and progress gradually. When the child sees communication’s value, learning becomes easier. Keep challenging them to expand their language.

Life Skills for Service
Children with severe autism may not excel socially, but they can contribute through simple tasks like laundry, cleaning, or picking up toys. These activities reduce your workload, provide purpose for your child, and can improve their attitudes. Don’t forget to teach self-care skills, from manners to motor skills, so they can meet their own needs as well.

Thinking Skills
Schools often neglect fostering thinking skills in children with autism, focusing on rote memorization instead. Developing problem-solving abilities is crucial. With patience, you can guide them to apply their sharp thinking to productive tasks, such as puzzles, games, or building projects.

Eliminating Inappropriate Behavior
Rather than just correcting inappropriate behaviors, teach your child appropriate alternatives. For example, instead of guessing names, teach them how to politely ask for someone’s name. This approach helps reduce socially unacceptable actions while promoting positive behavior.

Academic Skills
Though last on the list, academic skills are still essential. Reading and other academic skills help children navigate daily life and engage in productive activities. By teaching basic skills early, you provide tools that enhance their independence, like labeling items and writing notes, which can ease daily tasks and foster growth.

These five goals, applied within real-life family experiences, foster tremendous growth in children with autism. It’s hard work, but the rewards are worth it!