Autism After High School - Essential Vocational Skills for Your Teen
Navigating the world after high school often brings a whirlwind of emotions. For teens with autism, the path may seem unclear, but there are skills that will help to prepare them for the future. Teens may already have some of these skills, so you can play to their strengths. With that in mind, let’s go over some skills essential in the world of work and how you can help your student develop them.
Attention to Detail - Precision Matters
Attention to detail is not just about noticing the small things; it's about completing things with accuracy. Some kids with autism are great at this, which makes them well-suited for jobs like accounting or quality control. But if your kid isn’t so great with the finer details, you can help them improve by encouraging hobbies like puzzles or arts and crafts.
Structured Thinking- Solving Complex Problems
The ability to approach problems methodically can be a game-changer in a professional environment. Some neurodivergent kids love problem-solving and tackling the kinds of challenges that crop up in tech or logistics, where structured thinking is key to finding the solution. Playing with computers and board games can be a great way to work on structured thinking.
Task Specialization - Focus and Dedication
Kids often have a particular interest that they LOVE. Their ability to concentrate and master a specific skill can be perfect for professions like research or web design. Encourage them to immerse themselves in their projects or hobbies, so they learn the kind of dedication crucial in the workplace.
Routine-Oriented Tasks- Embracing Consistency
Consistency is a cornerstone of reliability in the vocational realm. Teaching kids how to cope with changes in routine is vital in their personal lives. But consistency and regularity are all essential skills in manufacturing, administration, or inventory management, for instance. By establishing routines, teens with autism can prepare themselves for jobs where consistency is not just appreciated but is crucial.
Visual and Spatial Skills - A Different Perspective
A strong aptitude for visual and spatial tasks can open doors to careers in art and design. Visualizing and understanding space is invaluable in professions that create, whether it's a product, a building, or a piece of art. By engaging in visual projects or 3D modeling, teens can nurture this talent, making them prime candidates for vocations that require a keen eye.
You can help nurture these skills in your child by encouraging sensory activities like finger painting.
To sum it up, post-high school life is brimming with opportunities. You can help your child choose a career in the future and nurture their skills to help prepare them for their profession. After all, every skill is a stepping stone to success. We offer a transition program to help prepare kids for life after high school. If you’re looking for a school that embraces their unique skills as much as you do, check out some of the clubs and electives we offer at PS Academy, like Rock Band, Cheer, or Dating Dos and Don’ts.