Are you looking for something new this summer that’s fun and helpful for your loved one with autism? Cooking with autism is a wonderful bonding activity. Learning to cook is a basic life skill that is important to everyone, including individuals with autism. With the right training, individuals with autism may even be able to turn their cooking skills into jobs for autistic people near Hoke and beyond.
A Guide to Successful Cooking with Autism
Cooking with autism has been shown to decrease anxiety and enhance skills already acquired. When first learning to cook, it’s important to have a recipe that is straightforward and easy to follow. Routine, clear, and concise instructions can make a profound difference in the autistic person’s early cooking success. Also, be sure to look for a recipe that is age-appropriate and foods that the person with autism is interested in.
Next, discuss the importance of incorporating good hygiene into food preparation. Demonstrate proper handwashing and surface cleaning techniques for your loved one with autism. When discussing food safety, make sure to teach cross-contamination and proper clean-up after the meal preparation.
Make sure to divide the meal prep into age-appropriate tasks and set up all of the ingredients that you will need to prepare the recipe. This includes gathering all bowls, pots/pans, measuring devices (measuring cups and spoons), and ingredients. Having all these items close at hand will make the learning process easier for you and your loved one with autism.
Once the cooking is complete, you are now ready for the best part: eating! Sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Sharing the meal you just cooked will not only help with boosting the confidence of your family member or friend with autism, but it will also help your loved one practice vital social skills.
As your loved one becomes more adept in the kitchen, they may start looking to cooking as a career. There are many careers in the culinary arts for individuals with autism. For more information on jobs for autistic people near Hoke and throughout North Carolina, contact ShineLight Services.
ShineLight Provides Resources for Jobs for Autistic People Near Hoke
ShineLight was created with the distinct purpose of providing a brighter life and future for individuals with autism. ShineLight serves as a guiding light for individuals and their families by leading the way in support services and community advocacy. Their service areas include: Fayetteville, Wake, Sampson, Scotland, Duplin, Wayne, Lenoir, Greene, Wilson, Edgecombe, Durham, Johnston, Cumberland, Hoke, Robeson, and Bladen Counties. Contact us today.
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