Michael’s meaningful activities

Alexandra and Michael

We spoke to Alexandra, the mother of Michael. Now 26 years old, Michael was diagnosed as autistic at age 2. He lives at home with his parents and younger siblings. Michael has high-support needs, with significant sensory and communication difficulties.  He also has medical and behavioural challenges*.

Despite those challenges, Michael exudes pride in his work achievements. He manages many parts of his day independently, with good supports in place.


Alexandra argues strongly that meaningful work does not have to be paid employment to be of value


Early Years

Michael attended special schools and Alexandra says that little attempt was made to stretch him, that he was “stuck doing shoebox tasks”. (These are literally boxes containing everything needed for a complete activity including visual instructions. They may relate to numeracy, literacy, life skills, fine motor skills, etc.). Alexandra says he was kept at these same repetitive activities for months at a time. He was not allowed to join in other activities or groups as he did not conform to the rules and routines of the school and, at that time, staff did not have the expertise to support him. Michael was therefore given limited access to facilities and learning opportunities outside the classroom. (Alexandra notes that the school has now changed its approach. Ther