How to improve eye contact in children with Autism

Eye contact can be a difficult skill for some children with autism to master. However, there are several strategies that can be used to help improve eye contact in children with autism. Some of these strategies include:

1.     Teaching the skill of eye contact through play and social interaction: Use social games and interactive activities that involve eye contact, such as matching, imitating or taking turns, to gradually increase the child's comfort level with making eye contact.

2.     Modeling appropriate eye contact: Demonstrating appropriate eye contact behavior, such as looking at the child when speaking, can help the child to learn the skill.

3.     Reinforcing positive eye contact: Reward and provide positive reinforcement when the child makes eye contact, this will encourage them to repeat the behavior.

4.     Creating a comfortable and safe environment: Creating a comfortable and safe environment, such as a warm and quiet room, can help to reduce anxiety and increase the child's willingness to make eye contact.

5.     Gradual exposure: Gradually increase the duration and frequency of eye contact expectations, starting with shorter periods and increasing as the child becomes more comfortable.

6.     Using visual supports: Make sure to engage with the child from below the eye sight line.

7.     Engaging in joint attention activities: Engage in activities that involve joint attention, such as pointing or showing objects, which can help to build the child's understanding of the importance of eye contact.

8.     Working with a specialist: consider working with an occupational therapist, speech therapist, or other specialist who can provide additional guidance and support to help the child learn this skill.