New confidence and possibilities for Xavier

Confidence is vital for young people moving into adulthood. For 16-year-old Xavier, attending the Northcott Skills 4 Life program in Toowoomba has boosted his confidence and allowed him to experience greater responsibility and independence.

Xavier has ASD and selective mutism so it’s his mum, Shanna, who does the talking. She couldn’t be prouder of his achievements as she describes his journey through therapy and groups.

He started attending therapy in Toowoomba not long after the centre opened in 2017 (when Northcott operated as Montrose). His most impressive progress though, has come since groups were introduced to the local service and provided an opportunity to build on his therapy goals.

“We’ve been going since he was 7, so it’s like a second home to us!” says Shanna.

Following recommendations from his Northcott therapist, Xavier signed up for Skills 4 Life – a skill-development program for teenagers with disability. It’s run in groups with fun, educational activities including cooking, art and community outings. Xavier looks forward to the group every week.

“He’s always asking what he’s doing this week. I can see he’s looking forward to going and it’s not just another appointment for him,” says Shanna.

His confidence has skyrocketed in the last two years.

Shanna

Social interaction and communication

Participants in Skills 4 Life learn how to express their opinions, make decisions and respect others while building their confidence and self-esteem.

“The group is particularly beneficial for us because Xavier has a younger sister who is also on the spectrum so our time and attention are often divided. These programs give him more individual time where the focus is on him,” says Shanna.

The impact has been clear for Xavier.

“Xav’s confidence has skyrocketed in the last two years. He used to just sit and watch from the sidelines, but since he’s been doing the groups, everyone wants to be his friend. He can’t communicate – he’s not verbal at the groups, but he still has a way of interacting with people.” says Shanna.

At home, the family has noticed positive changes as well with Xavier’s increased confidence allowing his personality to shine through.

“He used to just hide away in his room. But he’s a lot more involved here at home. Although he doesn’t talk outside, he will talk at home with his dad and me. He can actually be quite cheeky and none of this was evident until recently! As a parent of a child on the spectrum, you sometimes think that you’re not going to have those moments.

“I love hearing about him joking around with the other kids. They’re just interacting like kids, with no sign of disability. Yes, they have their own struggles, but they don’t feel singled out. It’s so inclusive” explains Shanna.

Boosting confidence and independence

Skills 4 Life also encourages independence by giving participants like Xavier the opportunity to take on tasks and responsibilities. One of his favourite activities is cooking, where he’s begun taking on a leadership role.

“When they go shopping, he helps plan and buy the ingredients. He has a role, something that he’s in control of, and I think he enjoys that. He has some responsibility without it being too scary because they’re there if he needs assistance.” says Shanna.

Support from the start

Reflecting on the early days, Shanna remembers how far they’ve come. “Therapy was often difficult because Xav was not able to communicate. They had to work hard to build rapport by playing games. But it was never a chore to go – the team always made us feel welcome.

“Northcott has felt like a second home because everyone’s so welcoming and any issues we had, they were always there to help including helping get his NDIS plan right,” says Shanna.

Looking ahead with hope

Xavier’s growing confidence is opening up new possibilities for the future. With Northcott’s help, he is beginning to explore new interests and opportunities.

“Northcott is offering driver education and job readiness programs this term. With Northcott’s support, we’re starting to think about what types of job roles might suit Xavier and who we could approach.

“I’m really excited by this. To him given that chance, just like any other teenager is fantastic. Xav’s still undecided on what he wants to do and whether he wants to study or get a job. But having possibilities and hope, that’s the important thing!” concludes Shanna.

Find out more about Skills 4 Life