Core Skills Analysis
Life Skills and Personal Development
Olivia took part in a session with a support worker focused on developing life skills. Through this supported activity, Olivia practiced engaging with learning intended to strengthen practical skills for everyday life. The session helped Olivia build awareness of how life skills can support greater participation and independence. Olivia also had an opportunity to develop confidence through working alongside a support worker.
Social and Community Learning
Olivia participated in an activity focused on community engagement, connecting personal development with taking part in community life. The session supported Olivia in learning that engaging with the community is a valuable life skill. By working with a support worker, Olivia practiced participating in a supportive learning setting. This experience helped Olivia develop readiness to engage with people and activities in the wider community.
Tips
Tips Build on Olivia’s learning by choosing a familiar community destination and planning a visit together, such as a library or local park. Before going, invite Olivia to make a simple checklist of steps for the outing; afterward, reflect on what felt comfortable and what skills were practiced. A role-play activity can also help rehearse friendly introductions or asking for information, while a community map can encourage Olivia to identify places and activities of interest.
Book Recommendations
- The Social Skills Picture Book: Teaching Play, Emotion, and Communication to Children with Autism by Jed Baker: A practical, illustrated guide to social situations and communication skills that can support discussion and role-play.
Try This Next
- Make a community-outing checklist with steps such as choosing a destination, preparing to leave, and reflecting afterward.
- Create a role-play prompt card for practicing how to greet someone or ask for information in a community setting.
- Draw a map of nearby places Olivia would like to visit and mark one possible activity at each.