Attention parents: here’s how to teach kids with autism the art of turn taking. The key is to give your child something to do while they are waiting for their turn. Watch the video to see this strategy in action.
How to use this with your child: Start with a game your child already enjoys, such as rolling a ball, stacking blocks or a favorite app. Keep turns very short at first (a few seconds each) and use a clear visual cue, like a “my turn” card or passing a toy, so your child can see whose turn it is. While they wait, give them a job: holding the next block, pressing a button or counting along. Praise the waiting, not just the turn. Many autistic children find waiting hard because time feels unpredictable, so a visual timer can help. Slowly stretch the waiting time, and practice with siblings or friends once it feels easy at home.
I am Ash and I celebrate Neurodiversity! Growing up with an elder brother with severe Autism was tough – but it has also taught me essential life lessons. I don’t believe that people with Autism are necessarily or have any disorder (except in extreme cases). They are just different! And that is something to be proud of! I am passionate about helping other families who may have Autism conditions in their family. So please reach out and drop me a note. I will be glad to help 🙂
