EY Newsletter: Unlocking Flexibility in Children with Autism - Strategies for Parents

Does your child insist on reading the same book every night or become
visibly upset with changes in routines?

You're not alone...

This behavior is a common characteristic in children with autism and other developmental disabilities, where the world of repetitive activities and rigidity becomes their comfort zone.

Understanding these behaviors and learning how to gently introduce flexibility can significantly reduce stress for both you and your child.

But how can you achieve this balance with your child?

First it starts with...

Understanding the Why:

Children with developmental disabilities find comfort and security in repetition and predictable patterns. This isn't merely about preferences—it's their way of making sense of the world.

The predictability of repetition reduces anxiety by creating a controlled environment where expectations are clear.

From a behavioral perspective, every action serves a primary purpose, especially when it comes to repetitive behaviors or insistence on sameness.

These actions often aim to:

1. Provide sensory stimulation they might be seeking. (Obtain Pleasure)
2. Offer a way to control their environment, making it feel safer. (Avoid Pain)
3. Help them cope with overwhelming sensory information from the world around them. (Avoid Pain)

By understanding the function behind these behaviors, you can more effectively support your child.

It's not just about the behavior itself but what that behavior communicates about their needs and experiences.

Try Asking yourself: What benefit does my child get from this activity or behavior?

Or... 

What is likely the cause of the behavior?

Strategies for Fostering Flexibility in Your Child's Routines

• Recognize the Need for Predictability: Understand that these repetitive activities or rigid routines offer your child a sense of security. It's their way of coping with an often unpredictable world.
• Introduce Small Changes Gradually: Begin with minor adjustments to routines or introduce new variations to repetitive activities. Visual schedules or timers can prepare them for transitions, making changes less daunting.
• Create a Visual Schedule: These schedules are invaluable for preparing your child for daily activities and any expected changes, easing transitions.
• Empower with Choices: Offering choices within limits can foster flexibility. Whether choosing between two books or games, empowering your child to make decisions can have a significant impact.
• Celebrate Success: Acknowledge and celebrate when your child tries something new or manages a change well. Positive reinforcement encourages the repetition of these new behaviors.
• Manage Meltdowns with Compassion: When tantrums occur, stay calm, offer comfort, and validate their feelings. Consistency and patience in gently reminding them of the new routines are crucial.

By understanding that our goal is to gently guide your child's behavior towards more flexibility over time is crucial. It's about making small adjustments that accumulate into significant positive changes.

In our next issue, we'll talk about the challenges of navigating larger changes in routines for children with developmental disabilities and share strategies to set your family up for success.

(P.S. Is there a particular topic you're eager to learn more about? We're all ears! Reach out and let us know by emailing our team.)