Making It Work
An interactive game that helps children build flexibility.
Help children play this game in which Julia and friends must choose different ways to respond to disappointments, surprises, and changes… and somehow “make it work.” (First, of course, they practice a calming strategy!)
Make new choices each time you play the game. You can also:
- Ask children, “How do your friends on Sesame Street feel when things don’t go according to plan? Have you ever had big feelings like that?” Talk about specific times when they themselves have felt frustrated, or annoyed, or angry.
- Brainstorm ideas for calming down. Start with the ways Elmo and his friends use: popping bubbles, finding shapes, taking deep breaths. Together, think of other strategies that might help. Hugging a favorite toy? Putting on music? Make a list, using words and pictures, that can be used next time children need to work out big feelings.
Super Helper
Finding ways to help their family can be a great way for autistic children to build skills and pursue goals.
Time for a Treat
Sometimes autistic children—and all children—need a little help from others to reach their goals.
Where Should We Go?
Even taking a walk around the neighborhood can offer opportunities for autistic children to make choices—and have fun!
Julia and Rose – Best Friends Fur-Ever
When Julia has an idea, she sees it through… with a little help from her family. This social story for autistic children models what’s possible!
Teaching Self-Determination Skills
Try these playful activities to help your child develop important self-determination skills.
Setting and Achieving Goals
With support from a caring grown-up, autistic children can set goals, make a plan, and accomplish big things!
Forging Furry Friendships: How Human-Animal Interventions Can Support Autistic Children’s Well-Being
In this webinar, you’ll learn about the science of human-animal bonds and specifically how animal interventions can support autistic children’s well-being.
