Episode Details

Teaching manners to children with autism is important, but teaching them too early can interfere with communication development. Before focusing on words like "please" and "thank you," children should first be able to request what they want, use simple phrases, and show basic learning skills like imitation and labeling. Dr. Mary Barbera explains common mistakes parents make, why phrases like "I'm sorry" can backfire, and how to teach manners like "thank you" and "excuse me" in natural, meaningful ways that support real progress.