Life Skills for Individuals with Autism

We rely on "executive function" (EF) to manage daily tasks. It helps us plan, set goals, remember experiences, complete tasks, and control emotions, mainly using the prefrontal cortex in the front part of the brain. As life gets more complicated, EF helps us connect ideas and control impulses, keeping us focused on work instead of leisure.

Many people with autism, both children and adults, have trouble with executive functioning (EF). They might be smart and have good memories but find daily tasks and managing emotions difficult. Even those with high-functioning autism can excel at complex tasks but struggle with simple life skills. Executive functioning challenges can make everyday life hard for anyone with autism, no matter where they are on the spectrum. However, both children and adults can learn ways to improve executive functioning, like making “to-do” lists and breaking tasks into smaller, clear steps, often using visual aids. Setting up systems and routines can help prevent tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.