Kristina Košel-Patil, director of the Lithuanian Autism Association “Lietaus vaikai,” emphasized in a recent press release that preparing for school involves more than just academic readiness; it critically encompasses the child’s sense of safety and emotional security. According to Košel-Patil, a vital skill for this preparation is the ability for the child to effectively communicate when they are struggling or require assistance. She noted, “One of the most important skills for preparing for school is the ability to show that the child does not understand, that he is not able to do it, or needs help.”
This communication method does not need to be limited to spoken words.
For some students, it might be a learned phrase, while for others, it could manifest as a specific gesture, the use of a symbolic card, or a button press on a communication device. The essential element, she stressed, is that the child possesses a reliable means to indicate difficulty. Košel-Patil further elaborated that in the controlled environment of home, a child might already be capable of requesting help or waiting for support.
This foundational skill of self-advocacy is crucial, as it builds confidence and reduces anxiety when transitioning to the more complex and stimulating environment of school. Developing these communication strategies ensures that the child feels supported, rather than overwhelmed, by the academic demands of the educational setting.
Topics: #not #child #school
According to Kristina Košel-Patil, director of the Lithuanian Autism Association “Lietaus vaikai,” preparing an autistic child for school involves more than just academic preparation; it critically re