Feb 20, 2023
SLP 188: Why your words can cause meltdowns and what to say instead Sub Heading: Understanding the Power of Your Words When Working with Children with Autism: How to Avoid Triggers and Improve Communication
Join Sue for an upcoming Live Virtual Workshop where you will learn from Sue practical tips & strategies to make a difference.
In this episode, we will discuss:
✅ Children with autism often struggle to understand the inferred
intent of language due to mind blindness, leading to difficulty
following instructions.
✅ Certain words like "stop" and "no" can cause confusion and
trigger an overreaction or escalate behaviour in children with
autism.
✅ When using words like "stop," make sure to add more information
to tell the child what they should do instead of what they
shouldn't do.
✅ The words "could," "would," and "can" often sound like a choice
rather than a direction, leading to confusion for children with
autism.
✅ It's better to use clear and direct language like "start work" to
avoid confusion and promote understanding
✅ Focusing on telling the child what to do instead of what not to
do is more supportive and directive.
✅ It's important to use language that conveys the intended message
clearly to ensure the child's safety and learning.
✅ Mind blindness can also cause difficulty in understanding another
person's perspective.
✅ Teachers can improve communication by understanding the power of
their words and using language that is clear, direct, and easy to
understand.
✅ By making these changes in language, teachers can avoid triggers
and improve communication with children with autism.
Read more about this podcast in the show notes found via the link below
suelarkey.com.au/why-your-words-can-cause-meltdowns-and-what-to-say-instead/
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