By Payton Gao
Recently, my parents have been focused on helping my brother find employment. It is a challenge, as he is autistic and nonverbal. However, each child has their strengths and weaknesses. My brother, for example, enjoys building puzzles and typing games. We're thinking of applying his attention to detail to data entry or database management.
At my school, Livingston High School, many special needs students have individualized education programs (IEPs) developed with input from teachers, parents, and specialists to provide a personalized learning experience. Many schools also emphasize transition services, providing a gateway into the real world through individualized transition plans that are part of a student’s IEP. Some schools offer career and vocational training through internships, work-study programs, and on-the-job training to gain valuable real-world experience in their chosen field.
Besides school-provided opportunities, it may also be beneficial to reach out and utilize government services like the Children's System of Care and the Department of Developmental Disabilities. These programs provide in-home support, recreational programs, and transition services. These resources help develop essential soft skills like communication and critical thinking.
There are also specialized workplace opportunities, as many organizations provide specific employment for autistic individuals. Specialisterne (“The Specialists” in Danish), for example, provides opportunities in IT consulting, software testing, and data entry. The company was founded by Thorkil Sonne who was inspired by his autistic son to provide meaningful employment for individuals with high attention to detail, concentration levels, and pattern recognition skills. Other neurodiverse organizations include Rising Tide Car Wash, Spectrum Designs Foundation, AutonomyWorks, Chocolate Spectrum, Ultranauts, and nonPareil Institute.
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