What is a beautiful display of patriotism to you may be overwhelming to a child with autism.
" . . . children, with or without autism, need a plan for if they get lost."
Tallahassee, FL (PRWEB) July 03, 2013
Tomorrow is the 4th of July! While this is an exciting and fun time for most of us, it can be overwhelming for kids on the autism spectrum. The Florida Autism Center offers the following tips for making this day enjoyable for kids with ASD and their families. At the end of this article, you can learn more about this great organization.
1. Talk about it. Prepare the child as much as possible verbally. Explain that there will be loud noises and lots of people. Encourage him to ask for a break if needed.
2. Maintain routine as much as is possible. Loading up on sweets all day then heading to a crowded park in the evening might not be the greatest idea.
3. Shorten your time limit expectations. Perhaps she can't handle a family party AND a fireworks display. Prioritize.
4. Kids with autism (or any young kid, really) can go on sensory overload on a day like the 4th. Be sure that your child has ample opportunities to find a quiet place and have a break. Plan for quiet times through the festivities.
5. If you are going to a fireworks display, consider taking along an iPod or noise cancelling headphone to help drown out some of the noise.
6. Pay attention to your child’s needs and respect their limits. If you see that she is struggling to suppress a meltdown, leave the event.
7. Park as close as you can to the festivities and take a wagon, a blanket, or create and area that your child can label as "his."
8. You may be there for the fireworks, but your child may not notice the display or may be frightened by it. Taking along some preferred activities to lessen the possibilities of needing to chase, entertain, or quell fears in your child may be very helpful to all of you in having an enjoyable experience.
9. Important! Keep in mind that children, with or without autism, need a plan for if they get lost. If your child has verbal skills, review basics before you go out to a crowded place. Important questions to review are: ‘What is Mommy’s / Daddy’s REAL name (not just Mommy)?’ and ‘What is Mommy’s / Daddy’s cell phone number?’ If your child is able, choose a place where you will meet if you get separated and review it several times throughout the evening. If your child is not able, keep them close and consider giving them a temporary tattoo, necklace or bracelet, or some other form of ID they won't lose during the event.
10. Based on your comfort level, you may want to identify visually your child's diagnosis (an autism awareness T-shirt or bracelet may do the trick). If your child is lost, acts out, or has other issues while in a crowd, this kind of identification may help others help her more effectively.
The Florida Autism Center (FAC) is an Early Intervention treatment program serving children as young as 12 months through age 13. These tips were assembled by speaking with Executive Director Chrystin Bullock and are based on the organizations past experiences with clients and families. FAC provides behavior analytic services to its clients, specializing in intensive short term treatment with the goal of helping children in its care be successful in mainstream educational environments.
If you have any other tips or comments, let us know. For your convenience, you can also download a printable PDF of these tips. Have a fun and safe holiday!
