December 8, 2025
The power of a strength-based approach
I recently took the training course A Strengths-Based Approach for Helping Autistic Toddlers and Preschoolers by Teach me to Talk. The training focuses on identifying a child’s strengths using a Strengths Survey.
The Strength Survey highlights the different strength categories: Visual, Auditory & Listening, Physical, and Cognitive. In using a strength-based approach I can recognize a child’s strongest form of learning, then build a comprehensive plan uniquely for him or her. By doing so, I am giving a child the gift of being truly known, seen for who they are, and what they love about the world.
I experienced the magic of using this approach with one of my little friends. Using the Strengths Survey with his family, we identified his strength as physical. During our session he pointed to his ball and said “ball,” then filled in the verbal routine: “Ready, Set, Go!” As I focused on his physical strengths, he was motivated to communicate and interact. He proceeded to point and comment on other items in his environment such as his car, the Christmas tree ornaments, and the pictures on his play rug. It was beautiful to share this memorable moment with his family!
A strength-based approach gives hope to a caregiver.
It celebrates and encourages the child’s individuality, something that we all desire as humans.
Let’s take the time to truly know our children during this busy season, and focus on their strengths to help them be the best communicators they can be!