Share his Interests:

Start by drawing along side him silently to see if he responds.  Then, start imitating what he’s doing/drawing (on your own paper or his if he’s not paying attention to you and will allow you to draw on the same paper as him).  Then, start commenting on what he is drawing or doing.  Next, comment on what you’re drawing or doing along with what he’s drawing/doing.  See if he watches you or engages in any way.

Use PECS/AAC to Request Materials:

• Have all materials for art project on display but out of reach.  Use PECS (or an alternative means of AAC) to have the student request the different materials he needs (paper, crayon, etc.).
• After a few minutes, tell the student that it’s your turn to use his writing utensil/crayon and color a little on your own picture.  Then, put the object back and have the student request again using the AAC system.

Draw Something that the Child Can’t:

• Draw something on your paper that the child can’t draw but that you think he’ll be interested in (use his interests).  Show the child and see if he’s interested in either having the picture or having you help him draw it.
• If he is interested, have him use AAC/speech to request help

Bring in New Art Materials:

While the student is in the room, bring out new art materials that the child isn’t used to seeing.  Demonstrate how they are used.  If he expresses interest, help him use AAC/Speech to request a turn.

Watch Videos of Drawing:

Find YouTube videos of someone drawing something cool (use his interests).  Show him the video and then have him request to watch more if he’s interested.