Task Initiation | Executive Function | ASD Life Skills | Starting Tasks | Procrastination

This structured PDF presentation (full lesson) is designed for individuals with ASD and those with social communication differences. It teaches practical strategies for starting tasks without excessive delay, understanding why beginning a task is a separate skill from motivation, and building simple, repeatable methods for getting started.

What is covered:

• What Is Task Initiation — the difference between task initiation and motivation
• Why This Can Be Harder for Individuals with ASD — unclear starting points, open-ended instructions, and executive function load
• The Universal Struggle — reassurance that starting a task is a widely shared struggle, not a unique difficulty
• What Task Initiation Struggles Can Look Like — recognising the signs before they build
• Examples — the blank page, and the messy room
• Strategies for Getting Started — the One Small Step Method, Body Doubling, the Two-Minute Timer, and the First Physical Action
• Practice Scenarios and Generalised Feedback — realistic scenarios with feedback
• Practical Tips and Key Takeaways

Suitable for:

• Individuals with ASD and those with social communication differences aged 13+
• 1:1 sessions or small group work
• SEN specialists, instructors, support workers, and parents

Format: PDF presentation
Session time: Approximately 40 minutes

All content uses clear, literal, and neutral language throughout. Resources are universally applicable, with no political, ideological, or religious content.

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