Teaching turn-taking to children with autism can be a rewarding, though sometimes challenging, experience. Turn-taking is an essential social skill that underpins much of human interaction, from conversations to playing games.
For many autistic children, understanding and practicing turn-taking can take time because it involves skills like waiting, sharing, and anticipating others’ actions. However, with the right strategies and patience, turn-taking can become a fun and achievable goal.
Why Turn-Taking is Challenging for Some Autistic Children
Autistic children may find turn-taking difficult for several reasons, which are important to understand when teaching this skill.
For some, processing social cues can be a challenge; they might not immediately recognize when it’s their turn or when they need to wait.
Additionally, certain sensory sensitivities or challenges in impulse control might make waiting uncomfortable. Many autistic children may also prefer predictable routines, and the uncertainty of when a turn will come may feel disruptive.
It’s important to remember that each child is unique; some will pick up on turn-taking quickly with the right encouragement, while others may need more support.
A structured, step-by-step approach, adapted to the child’s interests and comfort level, can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Start with Familiar Activities
One of the most effective ways to introduce turn-taking in ABA therapy is through activities the child already enjoys.
Familiar and enjoyable tasks make the experience less intimidating and increase the likelihood of engagement. If a child loves building blocks, for example, you can use those to create a turn-taking game, where you alternate placing blocks to build a tower together.
Starting with something they already find fun can create positive associations with turn-taking.
In addition to choosing familiar activities, using visuals or simple verbal cues can help. Statements like “My turn” and “Your turn” reinforce the concept in a clear, concise way. For many children with autism, visual aids can be incredibly helpful.
Simple signs or cards with “My Turn” and “Your Turn” written on them can add a physical element to reinforce the concept.
Breaking Down the Skill of Turn-Taking
For some children, learning turn-taking might require breaking it down into smaller steps. Here’s one possible breakdown of steps that gradually introduce them to the idea of turn-taking without overwhelming them.
Reinforcing the Benefits of Turn-Taking
As you teach turn-taking, positive reinforcement is key. Reinforcing each successful turn, whether with a smile, verbal praise, or a high-five, encourages the child to repeat the behavior. Rewards don’t have to be elaborate – simply acknowledging their effort goes a long way. Using specific praise like “Great job waiting your turn!” helps the child associate their actions with positive outcomes.
Additionally, modeling turn-taking yourself can be very impactful. Show them how you take turns in your interactions with others, whether it’s sharing food at the dinner table or playing a game. By witnessing turn-taking in everyday contexts, they get to see that it’s a normal part of interaction, which can help them feel more comfortable with it.
Visual and Sensory Supports for Turn-Taking
For children with autism, visuals and sensory supports can make a big difference in understanding and practicing turn-taking. Visual supports can range from cards that indicate whose turn it is, to a simple “waiting” timer that shows how much longer they need to wait.
The key is to create an environment that feels manageable for the child and reduces any anxiety about the process.
In some cases, sensory tools can also help, especially if waiting causes physical restlessness. Small fidget toys can be an excellent way for the child to manage the sensory aspect of waiting during another’s turn.
In addition, a timer or countdown app can provide a visual cue that indicates when it’s their turn, helping to reduce any guesswork or frustration.
Social Stories as a Tool for Teaching Turn-Taking
Social stories are personalized narratives designed to teach children social skills by walking them through various situations. Creating social stories about turn-taking can help your child understand what it involves, what they should expect, and why it’s important.
Including simple illustrations or photos of familiar people or activities can further engage the child. The story can also outline what to do if waiting becomes difficult, such as holding a toy to stay calm or watching others play until their turn arrives.
Reading this story together before a turn-taking activity can help prepare the child and reduce any anxiety.
Consistency and Routine in Turn-Taking Practice
Consistency is crucial for teaching any new skill. Practice turn-taking regularly, but try to keep it within a familiar routine. Daily practice is ideal, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time.
Creating a structured routine around turn-taking will give the child a clear understanding of what to expect, which can help them feel more secure.
Once turn-taking becomes part of the routine, gradually introduce it into other settings, like family gatherings or playdates. This way, the skill generalizes beyond one context and becomes more flexible. When they see that turn-taking works the same way in different situations, they are more likely to understand it as a general rule.
Celebrating Progress and Making Turn-Taking Enjoyable
Ultimately, turn-taking is a skill that becomes more enjoyable with practice. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, and highlight how much fun it can be to share in an activity together.
This positive reinforcement not only boosts the child’s confidence but also reinforces the social bonds that turn-taking encourages. Through patience, consistency, and encouragement, turn-taking can become a valuable, lifelong skill that enhances social interactions and strengthens relationships.
Each step along the way brings the child closer to a world where shared activities and conversations are accessible, enjoyable, and rewarding.
With persistence and a tailored approach, turn-taking can become a joyful experience, opening doors to connection and social growth. At Silver Swing ABA, we are passionate about providing personalized ABA therapy services that foster meaningful progress.
If you’re searching for an autism center in Arizona, Georgia, New Jersey, or Utah, connect with us to explore how our experienced team can support your loved one’s unique journey. Reach out today to discover the quality care and dedication we bring to each individual’s success.
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