Handwashing

Teach the teenager with autism the fundamental steps of the hand washing process and why it is important that we wash our hands.

Use visuals, breaking down each individual step of the hand washing process e.g.

• Turn on the water – check water is not too hot by looking for steam then quickly placing hand under water
• Place hands in the water
• Apply soap to hands
• Rub hands together
• Rinse hands with water
• Turn off water
• Get paper towel
• Dry hands
• Throw paper towel in bin

Place a picture of a motivator or reward after the hand washing symbol in the daily schedule if required

Positive reinforcement and praise for a job well done

Smart phone apps can be a useful resource to display the steps involved in hand washing.