Time Management

From Autism Transition Handbook

Many children with ASD have difficulty staying organized and managing their time effectively. From Velcro-fastened activity schedules to electronic personal digital assistants (PDAs), the tools are available to help your young adult organize his time more effectively and efficiently. Here are some key skills and tips that can help along the way:

• Break each day up into chunks: Assign various tasks for each time period. For example, your child may be in school from 8 a.m.−3 p.m. From 3−4 p.m., he may work on homework; from 4−5 p.m., update his schedule for the next day; from 5−6 p.m., help with dinner, and so on. By chunking the tasks, it will help your child stay organized and not get overwhelmed.
• Create an individualized activity schedule: You can help your child put together a “To Do” list of items, including homework, chores, and appointments or leisure/recreation activities. Over time, allow your young adult to do this on his own and check his progress (self-monitoring).
• Use an organizer: − Simple paper organizer: These organizers can be divided by tabs and include sections for “To Do” lists, homework assignments, and a schedule of activities. Again, help your young adult establish a routine to check and update the organizer. − Electronic organizer (PDA): If your young adult likes technology, this could be a fun way to learn about organization. Most organizers have calendars and places to create “To Do” lists with pop-up reminders when a task should start. Help your child learn how to use these organizers. Create a routine to update the list and schedule every night. The development of simple time management and organizational skills will help make your young adult’s transition to adulthood that much easier.