Start with the environment
At home, you can shape learning around your child's needs. Often, the biggest improvements come from the environment, not from doing more teaching.
Keep language clear and short
- Use one instruction at a time: "Write your name" (pause) then "Circle the best answer".
- Prefer concrete words over figurative language during work time.
- If anxiety rises, reduce words and increase visuals.
Use visuals to reduce uncertainty
Visual supports reduce the need to hold lots of information in working memory. They also reduce negotiation and stress.
- First/Then cards
- Visual schedule (today's blocks)
- Choice board for breaks and rewards
- Finish signal (Done card, tick box, timer ends)
Plan for transitions (they cost energy)
- Use a timer and a consistent countdown.
- Keep the next step visible (Next: break).
- Use the same routine to restart after a hard moment.
If something isn't working, it's not a failure - it's information. Adjust the task, the environment, or the expectations.
Measure progress in a way that helps
Traditional output measures can miss real gains. Consider tracking:
- Engagement (Would they start?)
- Regulation (Could they stay calm enough to try?)
- Independence (How much support did they need?)
- Confidence (Did they feel successful?)