Building Independence: How to Create and Use Structured Work Systems

Building Independence: How to Create and Use Structured Work Systems presents an evidence-based approach to structured work systems. Individuals with autism and related disorders are supported by a variety of people throughout their day, whether in educational and work settings, transition programs, or at home. Structured work systems are one method that can be used to ensure that they develop and maintain their ability to work on their own without assistance and prompting from others.

The characteristics and benefits of structured work systems are explained in this well-illustrated book. Structured work systems provide visual information about what work needs to be done, how much works needs to be done, when the work is completed, and what will happen next. Due to the predictability and sense of accomplishment that is built into the system, many individuals with autism find that structured work time is their favorite time of the day. Full of colorful photos and case examples spanning different ages and levels of functioning, the book provides an A-Z guide to work systems, including assessment, how to build them into the curriculum, IEPs, lesson planning, and more tools geared toward individuals with autism and related differences.

Foreword by Gary Mesibov, PhD.