Children with autism spectrum disorder often do very well with structured schedules and routines. They like knowing exactly what to expect and what will happen when.
Children with autism spectrum disorder, particularly an autistic child, often do very well with structured schedules and routines. They like knowing exactly what to expect and what will happen when. However, life can be unpredictable, and sometimes they must adjust to changes in their daily routine. This can be upsetting and throw them off, but there are ways that you can help them to better cope.
Talk it out
One strategy is telling them about changes in their schedule ahead of time. If you know they have a doctor’s appointment after lunch, or you’re going out to dinner as a family instead of eating at home, tell them in advance. Discuss what they can expect and answer any questions they may have.
Using a social story can be a great way of explaining change in a visual way. Use pictures and easily understood terms to talk about what will be happening. You may also want to practice going to a new place or doing an activity before it happens. This can help to reduce anxiety or stress related to new or different activities.
Use pictures
Create a visual schedule that you can adjust accordingly. Your child can see ahead of time what is coming up, and it can remind them of what they should be doing. Occasionally changing things up and introducing new activities can help them to become more flexible and adaptable.
Give cues
If transitioning from one activity to another is challenging, give cues. Let them know that they have 10 more minutes, five more minutes, one more minute, and so on. If time is hard to grasp, use a Time Timer clock that visually shows the amount of time you set decreasing. Or tell them that they have five more jumps or three more turns until it’s time to switch tasks.
Allow for extra time
If change does occur unexpectedly, realize that your child will need some extra time to adjust. Be patient and use strategies to help them calm down and regain focus. Perhaps keep a favorite toy on hand to help comfort them. Also, be reassuring in what you say, validating their concerns that this is not the norm and redirecting them toward what you want them to do. Remind them that they’ve done this before, or something similar, and everything turned out okay.
Be positive
Praise your child when they do well handling change, even if it seems minor. Tell them what a great job they did and remind them that they can do it. It’s important that you stay calm and upbeat so that they feel more relaxed.
You can’t always anticipate change, but you can have strategies in place to help deal with it when it happens. Practicing adjusting to new activities or places can help your child to be more flexible and open to change. These are also skills they can work on with Autism treatment and at school. PediaPlex provides individualized therapy to meet your child’s needs and goals and help them to overcome challenges.
Find out how PediaPlex’s wide range of therapies can help children with autism to thrive by calling today.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Autistic people often find comfort in routines and may struggle with changes in their daily schedule. They might also experience sensory sensitivities, making certain environments overwhelming. Additionally, difficulties with social interactions and repetitive behaviors are common. Understanding these aspects of the autism spectrum is crucial for providing the right support, especially during times of change. By recognizing the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals, we can better prepare and support them through transitions and unexpected events.
Preparing for change is essential in supporting autistic individuals. One effective strategy is creating a visual schedule that outlines the sequence of events. This provides a clear reference point for what to expect, helping to reduce anxiety. Using social stories is another powerful tool; these narratives explain changes and what to anticipate in a visual and easily understood manner. It’s also important to provide extra time for processing new information and to offer choices, involving the autistic person in decision-making. Gradually introducing new activities or transitions can help them adjust more comfortably. Visual supports, such as pictures or symbols, can further aid in communication. By preparing for change in these ways, autistic individuals can feel more secure and in control, significantly reducing stress and anxiety.
Effective communication is key to supporting autistic individuals during times of change. Use clear and concise language to explain what is happening. Visual supports, such as pictures or symbols, can help convey the message more effectively. Give the autistic person time to process the information, and try to limit the use of gestures and facial expressions, which can sometimes be confusing. Social stories are particularly useful for explaining changes and setting expectations. Involving the autistic person in decision-making can also empower them and reduce anxiety. By communicating change effectively, you help autistic individuals understand what is happening and what is expected of them, making transitions smoother and less stressful.
Discover how PediaPlex’s expert care can support your child’s growth and development. Fill out the Patient Intake Form or contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey toward success!
or Contact Us
