YOUR AUTISTIC
All of us remember our first job. Whether it was helping out with
by Dana Reinhardt
30 Washington FAMILY OCTOBER 2020
the family business, serving sweet treats at the local frozen yogurt shop, mowing
lawns or working at a summer camp, it was an experience that, for better or for
worse, you’ll always remember.

While first jobs rarely launch your career, they are an important step to establishing
yourself in the workplace. They are an opportunity to practice working as part of a
team, taking responsibility, conducting oneself professionally and interacting with
customers. All teens should have access to these valuable experiences.




WANTS A JOB
? t
r o
p p
e su
d i
v o
r p
n a you
o H w c
1: LISEGAGNE; 2: STURTI / E+; 3: SOLSTOCK / E+ / STOCKBYTE; 4: MANGOSTOCK; 5: KALI9 /E+ 6: FATCAMERA / E+ / GETTY IMAGES
For parents of teens with autism, the job search can be a daunting idea.

Significant gaps in education, awareness and inclusion continue to
persist in the workplace for individuals with autism. This has resulted
in a high unemployment rate for those individuals. According to Autism
Speaks, nearly half of 25-year-olds with autism have never held a paying
job. Here are a few tips as you consider job opportunities for your teen, help
them navigate the interview process and equip them to succeed once they’ve
landed the job:
WashingtonFAMILY.com 31