Many parents of kids with autism wonder if it’s fair — or even realistic — to expect their child to help around the house. But according to two experts from Henry Ford Health, the answer is a confident yes.
“I don’t use the word ‘chore’ because it has that negative connotation,” says Dr. Tisa Johnson-Hooper, Pediatrician and Medical Director at Henry Ford Health’s GROW (Generational Resilience, Opportunity and Wellness) Center for Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. Instead, she reframes the concept: What can your child do to contribute to the family in a way that builds confidence and inclusion?
Sarah Peterson, Lead BCBA and Manager of the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, agrees. “Kids with autism absolutely can help — they may just need more support or a different way of learning.”
Start small, the experts advise. A child learning to wash dishes might begin by bringing a plate to the sink. Once that’s mastered, they can add steps like rinsing or even loading the dishwasher.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about learning, practicing and gaining independence.
Even better: everyday tasks like measuring pet food, wiping tables or sorting laundry also reinforce skills like math, motor coordination and pattern recognition.
“No kid ever said, ‘Can I please do more work?’” says Dr. Johnson-Hooper. “You’ve got to make it fun.”
So go ahead — turn up the music, set a timer and make it a team effort.
Everyone can contribute. The key is finding the right task, the right support and the right attitude.
