Learning To Put On A Shirt

When teaching a child a new skill, it is important that we break the skill down and start at the easiest step in order for the child to feel successful. The concept of breaking the skill down is referred to as Task Analysis.

 

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Below are two online articles that give us an idea of how to help a child with dressing. In the first article, (click here for the article), Mary Elizabeth Christian highlights all the steps of getting dressed. We at EAP would recommend that some of these skills be taught in isolation so it is easier for the child to learn to combine the steps together.

 

The second article (found here), breaks down the skills of putting a shirt on in more detail. The author also refers to backward chaining which is what we would recommend at EAP as well.

 

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Now in addition to all that has been covered by the above two articles, we would also add the following suggestions:

1. Decide if you would like to start with a simple t-shirt rather that a shirt. When you would like to start teaching your child to put on a shirt, do remember to teach him or her how to button and unbutton first (prerequisite skills are imperative!).
2. We at EAP would add a visual schedule of the broken down steps so your child has a clear idea of what is expected of him or her. In addition, visual prompts are easier to fade and eventually your child could use the schedule on his/her own.
3. Prompt fully in the beginning if necessary and then gradually fade back your prompting so your child is able to be independent.
4. Do set up sufficient opportunities for regular practice in order for your child to learn quickly as well as to retain the skill. We would typically practice it every hour of therapy a child has (this would usually be about 3-6 times a day).
5. Also remember to REWARD, REWARD, REWARD! Some children need a token for each step and then one big prize after, while other children need a reinforcer for each step.

If you find you have been practicing this regularly but your child does not seem to be learning it, review the steps, simplify it if necessary, increase reinforcement if necessary and then try again.

 

All the best and do give us a call at 2094 0421 or send us an email at media@autismmalaysia.com if you have any questions or if this worked for you!

 

Written by,

Jochebed Isaacs

Director, EAP Malaysia