The Drive Smart team really enjoyed our Autism Friendly Workshop at Autism SA. The workshop introduced us to the Autism Friendly Charter. The Charter “provides a framework for businesses, organisations and services to become and maintain an autism friendly environment” (Autism SA 2017).
We have worked with many Autism Spectrum clients over the years and learned a lot about supporting their journey to become safe drivers. The workshop helped us build on this experience, learn more about the sector and share our experiences as instructors.
Aspergers, Autism, ASD – What’s in a name?
You might talk about Aspergers, being On the Spectrum, Autism, AS, Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD. We don’t really mind what you call it, we simply build on what ever driving skills you have when we meet you then work hard to help you become a good safe driver.
The main thing reinforced at the Autism Friendly Workshop was that people are people and just want to be treated as such. We know the best way to build a good working relationship with all clients is to treat everyone the same. People need different support strategies along the way but we don’t make a big deal, we just get on with helping our clients become great drivers.
Sometimes we are the first people who have treated clients just like every one else, not special or different. We have the advantage of teaching one to one so we can tailor the teaching style and process to suit each client’s needs. The learning program simply evolves into one that meets individual client needs.
We know good things take time
We will stick with the plan for as long as it takes. If it takes two years to become a safe driver we will be with you for two years. Just the same, if you have done a huge amount of work yourself and only need us for two months, we will be there with you for the two months.
Autism Friendly
We know everyone is different. No two clients are the same. That is the beauty of it all. Life would be so dull if everyone was the same. We are committed to meeting the different needs of all our clients including those ‘on the spectrum’. Autism SA are a great support group for families and providers alike. We are looking forward working further with Autism SA and our Autism Spectrum clients as we continue developing our skills, knowledge and understanding as inclusive trainers, teachers and instructors.
Related information and articles
Learn more about the Autism Friendly Charter at Autism SA
I have a 20yr old that has autism and I think he is ready to get his learners permit. Do you, or do you know where he can get the help he will need. He has a budget from his NDIS plan?
We live in Myrtleford
Hi Katherine,
I am sorry but we have no connections with any groups that might help you in Myrtleford.
We help with supporting driving assessments and lessons in Adelaide South Australia.
Will your son need help with preparing for the L’s test or just with the driving once he gets his L’s?
Cheers,
Mark
Hi my son Tyhlor is 24, 6ft 10 tall and has autism, aspergers syndrome, ADHD, and anxiety, panic attacks and also depression.. I have been driving him in peek hour traffic too and from his work.. He’s got his learners permit, and I’m in the passenger seat…he has little hiccups here and there, so I want someone who has patience, understanding, and most of all get a rapport with him, by communication, eye contact..behavior, attitude at the time..may you please tell me or put me in the right direction so I know where to go.
OK cheers let me know.. Kind regards Sylvia Zacker..
Hi Sylvia, Thank you for asking. We will email you in response. Cheers.
Do you have any contacts in the Adelaide hills who are Autism friendly (or indeed do you cover the hills)? I have a soon to be 18 year old with very high functioning ASD (aspergers) who is competent and confident but needs some lessons prior to testing.
Hi Alex,
Thank you for asking. What town / area do you live in?
Hi
My son appeared for VORT twice and failed his test. The driving instructor says he becomes too nervous during the test.
But he has put forth a huge amount of work for his driving. Is there support that he can get from you to get his P plates?
Thanks
Hi and thank you for asking.
Do you mean support as in availability of an Autism Friendly trainer to help with further preparation for the VORT or are you hoping we can offer the CBT&A (Logbook) course, working through the 30 tasks?
Sadly we have limited availability for CBT&A with no vacancies in the Northern Suburbs and a wait until perhaps January for Eastern Suburbs CBT&A qualified instructor.