Podcast Episode 14. Knowing when to take the stabilisers away, and not just on a bicycle, is key to moving towards achieving an end goal.This is the view of Jackie, mother to Joe who has additional needs, including a speech and language disorder.

Jackie explains what works for Joe is repetition and chunking (breaking tasks into chunks) so that they are never too daunting and that achieving the task is realistic. Of course it is easier if it’s something he likes doing but even if it isn’t Jackie talks about the using rewards and sometimes resorting to negotiation to get things moving.

Providing support for each small step along the way brings small successes. Achieving even a small goal builds Joe’s confidence and helps him feel ‘grown up’ enough to try more things. Jackie recommends this type of approach as well as figuring out the end goal and then working backwards by breaking tasks up into easy to do parts. Then, and this is so important, trust yourself to know when it’s time to take away the stabilisers.

Show Notes
[.30] – All about Jackie and her son Joe
[1.40] – Developing independence skills through repetition
[3.20] – Using visual aids
[4.00] – Utilising your negotiation skills
[4.40] – Using computer games to build confidence
[6.00] – Taking away the support gradually
[7.40] – Working on relationships in a safe environment
[9.00] – Developing those relationships skills during holidays
[12.30] – Starting new friendships can be hard and will only come with time
[15.45] – When Joe turns 16
[17.30] – Dealing with a young person’s vulnerability by helping then learn responses
[19.00] – Trusting your own judgement when it’s the right time to the stabilisers away

Key Takeaways
Using chunking and repetition
Find the right time to take the stabilisers away