Lesson 3 · 18 minutes
Communication differences
Understanding Autism
What this lesson covers
Practical home lesson: communication differences with step-by-step prompts and fade guidance.
Purpose
Help your family implement "Communication differences" with dignity, predictability, and measurable progress.
Age / level
Adjust visuals and prompts to developmental level — works across childhood, teen, and adult profiles.
Materials
- Printed or digital visual schedule
- Communication board or AAC device
- Timer
- Preferred reward item
Step-by-step lesson plan
- 1Tell your child what will happen before you start (30–60 seconds preview).
- 2Use one clear prompt at a time. Wait 5–8 seconds before repeating.
- 3Offer a break card or gesture before frustration builds.
- 4Log completion and note what worked — this feeds your progress report.
- 5Celebrate effort with a short preferred activity, not a lecture.
How to prompt
Start with full physical or gestural support. Fade only after 3 calm, successful repetitions.
How to fade support
Move from hand-over-hand → gestural → independent. Never fade during overload.
Reward idea
Immediate, short, child-chosen activity (2–5 minutes).
Parent notes
Note sleep, hunger, sensory load, and transition timing in your log — patterns matter more than single sessions.
For your caseworker packet
Progress metric: Skill steps completed independently / with support (track per session)
Supports caregiver education goals commonly documented in IFSPs, IEPs, and person-centered plans.
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