Teaching Choice-Making: Encouraging Decision-Making in Everyday Life
For individuals with intellectual disabilities, having the opportunity to make choices isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s essential. Choice-making builds confidence, promotes independence, and creates a sense of agency that supports long-term growth. But for many, especially those who may have limited communication skills, decision-making takes time, support, and the right tools.
In my experience working as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), I’ve seen how powerful even the smallest choice can be.
The Power of Two Options
One of my clients loves to stay active. Swinging at the park, jumping on the trampoline, or running on the elliptical at the rec center are all favorite activities. To help him make a decision during leisure time, I use a visual board or a tablet with photos of the options. While he understands words, seeing the images alongside them helps him process and decide more confidently.
Through conversations with his parent, I’ve also learned that giving him too many options can become overwhelming. So I stick to two. Two choices keep things manageable—and more importantly, they set him up for success.
Supporting the Decision-Making Process
To be sure he’s choosing what he really wants, I often ask him the same question a few minutes apart. If he picks the same option twice, it’s a clear and consistent indicator of what he prefers. Once he knows what he’s going to do, he’s committed—no second-guessing or backtracking. That clarity brings both of us a sense of ease.
Sometimes, I’ll introduce choices using my phone. I let him scroll through the options, and he always returns to the one he wants. It’s a simple process, but it reflects real progress: he understands the task, navigates the tools, and sticks to his decision. That’s growth.
Why Choice-Making Matters
People often underestimate the power of letting someone choose. But making decisions—no matter how small—gives individuals a sense of control. It sends the message: Your voice matters. You are capable.
For this client, I’ve seen how regular choice-making builds his confidence. It reinforces that he doesn’t always have to go along with what someone else decides for him. Over time, this confidence will extend into other areas of his life—from personal preferences to daily living skills and social interactions.
Tips for Supporting Choice-Making:
Keep it simple. Start with two clear, visual options to avoid overwhelm.
Use consistent tools. Visual boards, tablets, or familiar photos help with understanding and routine.
Ask more than once. Repeating the question a few minutes apart can confirm a consistent preference.
Respect the choice. Even if it’s not the “easiest” option, honoring the choice validates their autonomy.
Celebrate small wins. Recognizing each successful decision boosts confidence and reinforces the skill.
Teaching choice-making isn’t about speeding up independence—it’s about respecting the process. When we give individuals the space to think, the tools to communicate, and the time to decide, we aren’t just supporting their day.
We’re empowering their future.
