There are several steps to take when working with a spectrum individual to learn how to drive. First talk with teachers, and all support staff individuals to assess if the student has the necessary visual and motor skills. Second, access how easily distracted students are, and how well they can stay focused on a task.
Once the decision is made for the student to learn to drive, talk to a qualified driver's education instructor, and share any information about the degree of disability that might make learning to drive more difficult. Make sure the instructor is aware of the individual's diagnosis and that he understands how to work with the individual. Apply for the permit required by the state for the individual to be able to drive with an instructor. The application needs to have AS or autism spectrum written on the paper. It is the law to declare any disabilities, but it will not disqualify individuals from obtaining a license.
Learning to Drive
Once the plan of action is in place, permit has been obtained, instructor hired, it’s time to start the process of learning to drive.The following ideas will help make the task more successful.
- Take any information to the instructor that might help him better understand the individual's needs and learning style.
- Have the instructor break down instruction into bits, one part of an instruction at a time.
- Ask to have practice time doubled and schedule breaks during the session to help the student relax and review what has been learned.
Extra Practice With the Instructor
The instructor is the main educator, but students will benefit greatly by having ample practice time with an individual they are comfortable with, either a parent or close adult friend. Have the chosen individual take the student to an empty parking lot for practice.
- Set up obstacles to create quick reacting events such as sharp turns and sudden stops.
- Have the student driver deal with the radio turned on loud, and windshield wipers going. Spray water on the windshield to simulate a sudden rain storm.
- Place objects along the driving path representing people or animals; talk about watching out for these to step into the path of the car and how to react.
- Discuss the fact that not every driver will obey the rules of the road to the letter. Talk about remaining calm when drivers are not courteous, run stop lights or cut one off in traffic.
- Stress paying attention to other cars both ahead, behind and on the sides of the car the student driver is driving.
Learning to drive is a challenge to anyone and especially to individuals with learning challenges. This does not mean that having a license is an impossible task, but rather a task made possible by extra work and practice.
Cheryl Bailey - Cheryl Bailey is a freelance writer who lives in North Mississippi. After graduating from North East Mississippi Community College she ...
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