Programming and Life Coaching for Out-of-School Life is a process that aims to make the time individuals spend outside of school more productive, meaningful and enjoyable. Especially for individuals with special needs, children and adolescents with autism, such programs are of great importance in terms of developing independent living skills, increasing participation in social life and gaining self-confidence.
This approach provides customized guidance to facilitate individuals’ coping with the difficulties they may encounter in daily life and to prepare them for an independent life.
Objectives
- Developing Independent Living Skills:
- Teaching daily living activities (shopping, preparing meals, using money, etc.).
- Providing Participation in Social Life:
- Developing social skills so that individuals can take an active part in society.
- Teaching Time Management:
- Planning daily routines and teaching how to use time effectively.
- Discovering One’s Own Interests and Talents:
- Ensuring that individuals discover their talents and interests through hobbies, sports, arts and entertainment activities.
- Gaining Self-Confidence and Motivation:
- Increasing the individual’s success and ensuring self-confidence by setting goals.
Programming Process for Out-of-School Life
1. Determining Needs and Interests:
Assessment:
- The individual’s strengths, needs and interests are determined in cooperation with experts and families.
Determining Goals:
- Short-term (e.g. learning to use public transportation) and long-term (e.g. gaining all the skills necessary for independent living) goals are created.
2. Planning the Program:
Daily and Weekly Activities:
A structured program covering the individual’s time outside of school is created. This program may include the following sections:
- Self-care skills (personal hygiene, clothing selection, meal preparation).
- Entertainment and social activities (meeting friends, going to the movies, doing sports).
- Developing hobbies (painting, music, gardening).
- Academic support or individual learning activities (reading books, online lessons).
Adaptation to the Environment and Society:
- How to benefit from social resources in the environment (libraries, gyms, social clubs) is taught.
- Individual Education and Guidance:
Life Coaching:
- Life coaches help individuals overcome obstacles they encounter in their daily lives and provide emotional support.
Real Life Practice:
- The individual is provided with practice in daily life activities such as using public transportation or ordering at a café.
- Follow-up and Development Monitoring:
Regular Feedback:
- The effectiveness of the program is reviewed regularly and updated when necessary.
Family Participation:
- The family is informed about the individual’s progress and encouraged to implement the program at home.