- Build your relationship on calm, respect, and affection.
- Insist on order and quiet in his surroundings: noise and confusion make it hard for him to concentrate.
- Learn what he can do and what he might become capable of, so you can give him work within his reach.
- Teach one thing at a time, using a few clear, simple sentences.
- Repeat the same instruction more than once if he doesn't understand.
- Remember: action speaks louder than words. Show him what to do, or do it together with him, rather than explaining too much.
- Give him the time he needs to work calmly and carefully.
- Praise small steps forward. Don't scold him when he makes a mistake—correct him with patience instead.
- Stay with him until the work is done, so he can feel the satisfaction of what he has accomplished.
- Be his friend, but above all be his model and his trusted guide.
See also: Ognuno a modo suo - Che cosa ho imparato in dieci anni nel laboratorio «l'alveare»