Provide Your Child with the Tools to Build Lasting Relationships

Making friends can be a challenge for children with autism, but it is not impossible. Here are some ways to help your child build friendships:

• Teach Social Skills: Children with autism may need explicit instruction in social skills, such as starting a conversation, maintaining eye contact, and understanding nonverbal cues.
• Join Social Skills Groups: After-school social skills groups provide your child with a friendly environment to practice socializing with peers. Ask your ABA provider about groups in your area.
• Volunteer: Encourage your child to volunteer for community events or local organizations. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and make new friends.
• Playdates: Set up playdates with other children in the neighborhood or through a support group. You can start by organizing a gathering with a family with autism and then try one-on-one playdates with adults present.
• Encourage Interests: Encourage your child to pursue their interests, whether art, music or sports. This can help them find others with similar interests and build relationships.
• Model Social Skills: Children learn by watching others, so model social skills for your child by having conversations, making eye contact, and using appropriate body language. A great way to practice social skills is with their Behavioral interventionist.
• Practice Empathy: Teach your child to try to understand others' perspectives. Practice active listening and asking open-ended questions. Show genuine interest in others and be a good friend.
• Be Patient: Making friends takes time and patience, so be patient with your child and support them through the process.

These strategies can help your child with autism make friends and build relationships. It is important to remember that every child is different, so what works for one child may not work for another. But with patience, persistence, and a positive attitude, you can help your child build meaningful and lasting friendships.

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