Homework That Doesn't Feel Like Work!

Linda Hodgdon, M.Ed., CCC-SLP Speech Pathologist
Communication Specialist

Imagine homework that is fun to do! Homework activities can actually become a desirable part of a student's life routine. In fact, students actually want to take the time to do it. Yes, some homework can be good. . . .it just needs to be the right kind.

Although homework is a traditional standard in education, it may not serve the same function for students with autism spectrum disorders. Typical homework may include activities such as practicing math skills and spelling words; assignments given for the purpose of practicing academic skills or teaching responsibility. The problem is, these purposes and functions may get lost with students whose primary educational needs are different.

Those who understand the long-term challenges of autism spectrum disorders would agree that acquiring effective communication skills and social competence are some of the most significant needs of these students. Giving students support and opportunity to develop those skills should be of highest priority.

Probably, most homework that is assigned is not used as a means to teach those critical social and communication skills. In fact, traditional academic homework assignments may actually serve to cause significant family stress and behavior incidents. When students do not understand its purpose, it becomes "another thing someone wants me to do." Traditional homework frequently increases frustration and stress in student's lives rather than increasing his ability to become more prepared for adulthood. Taking time out of the student's day to do traditional homework can actually rob him of the time he needs to practice those social and communication skills that are his most important skills to learn. Traditional assignments can end up producing the exact opposite of our desired goals.

Moving the educational focus away from academic practice and aiming toward enhancing social and communication opportunities opens new ways to look at the concept of homework. Homework designed to give students more practice developing relevant, meaningful communication skills serves an important purpose. Visual Bridges are visual tools used to develop communication skills and support social interaction. They help students make relevant connections between home and school. Creating and using these visual tools is an excellent way to give homework a functional and useful purpose.

Next page | Print page

Products  |  Articles  |  Pictures  |  Stories  |  Contact Us
About Us  |  Information  |  Events  |  Home