How We Make Coffee Shop Visits a Learning Experience for Benji

A visit to a coffee shop offers a great opportunity for experiential learning for Benji. This environment allows Benji to practice social and communication skills. Using PECS enhances the experience by supporting communication and providing a structured way for Benji to engage with his surroundings.

Everyday outings offer powerful opportunities for learning, and coffee shop visits have become a meaningful way for Benji to practice real-world communication, decision-making, and independence. By intentionally building familiar routines and using the tools that support him best, these simple trips turn into confidence-building experiences.

Making Choices with PECS

Before we even arrive, Benji begins practicing choice-making. Using his PECS binder, which contains printed photo cards of common coffee shop items, he explores what is available and identifies what he likes. Looking through pictures of items like coffee, cupcakes, or banana bread helps him recognize options and make intentional selections. Choosing an item ahead of time gives Benji a sense of control and prepares him for what’s coming next.

This step supports his understanding of choice and encourages decision-making in a low-pressure, familiar way.

Practicing the Ordering Process

Ordering at the counter is an important part of the experience. It helps Benji understand social routines and practice communicating his needs in real-life settings. Sometimes we use his iPad with preprogrammed phrases so he can express what he wants verbally through AAC. With his support worker, Benji selects his item and presses the corresponding button when it’s time to order.

Practicing phrases like “I want banana bread” helps him become familiar with the steps involved in ordering and builds confidence in social exchanges. Each successful interaction reinforces that his communication is meaningful and understood.

Building Independence Through Participation

Encouraging Benji to take the lead during these visits helps strengthen his confidence and sense of responsibility. Whether it’s choosing an item, ordering at the counter, or navigating the space with support, he is actively involved in the experience. These moments support his independence and help him feel more comfortable participating in everyday community activities.

By turning routine coffee shop visits into intentional learning opportunities, we’re helping Benji practice real-world skills in a supportive and empowering way.