FORMS AND METHODS OF DEVELOPING SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SKILLS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS

Abstract

The study theoretically substantiates the forms and methods of developing social and emotional skills in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), taking into account the characteristics of their emotional response, social interaction and sensory information processing. The most appropriate are the use of social stories, role modeling, art and music therapy, larping, as well as life story cards. The potential of these forms and methods is characterized using the example of larping (a role-playing game in which participants physically and emotionally experience various social roles and situations) and life story cards (specially designed cards that illustrate various life situations). It was determined that all the presented forms and methods are powerful tools for the development of socio- emotional skills in children with ASD, since they provide the formation of the ability to emotional self-expression, understanding of one's own and others' emotions, establishing interpersonal contacts, developing empathy, self-regulation skills and effective social interaction, which are critically important for the full functioning of the child in the social environment. Key conditions for the development of social and emotional skills in children with ASD have been identified, including: building a friendly educational environment; high level of specialist training; involving the family in the process of skill formation, as well as taking into account the interests and strengths of each child.