For children and young people with autism, due to social interaction deficits, it can be difficult for them to develop friendships. These difficulties include:
- starting and keeping conversations going
- approaching situations with flexible thinking
- understanding others feelings and thoughts
- engaging in play with children/young people
- taking turns
- understanding facial expressions and body language
- adapting their communication style to different situation
- problem solving
- being interested in topics that may differ to your own
STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT FRIENDSHIPS
As adults we are unable to make friends for children and young people with ASD. However, you can develop their social skills and increase their opportunity to meet other children and young people.
- Increasing Opportunities
Identify children/young people at school that your child may want to develop friendships with and invite them to your home for a play date. Research local groups that your child could attend - most child and youth groups will have an understanding of ASD but you could speak to them first about your child specifically.
- Building on Interests
Identify your child’s interests and strengths, and help your child connect with children who enjoy similar things. This will mean your child will sustain interest and will find like minded children.
- Social Stories
Social Stories can an effective way to teach your child/young person skills needed for interactions and relationship building. See further information about Social Stories.
- Be a role model
Children and young people learn social skills through watching others. Model skills like listening, showing empathy, problem-solving, and working through conflicts. use the Thinking Out Loud (talking through) strategy to explain your thought process.
Develop your child’s social interaction skills – look at the Communication and Emotions section for further information and activities.