Creating Predictable Routines
When they are at school, children have predictable routines and use a variety of visuals to understand them. When there is a change in the routine, visuals are used so that they can better understand what is next for them. Research shows that the brain is a pattern seeking organ and that there is safety in routine for children. Do2Learn has a variety of examples and resources for families to create visuals.
Do2Learn
Tips for creating routines:
*Establish a pattern for time at home. Use pictures to show them what their day will look like including playtime, running errands, school, nap, therapies, snacks and meals, etc. For surprise activies, have a "something is different" or "surprise" card. It is important for children to understand that routines change, but having visuals to help them understand what is next will reduce the stress of a change.
*Use the same order during routine activities such as Getting ready for school or going to bed. Put those routines in pictures so that they can learn the routines. Use a clothes pin or "all done" basket so that the children understand where they are in their routine and how much they have left.
Do2Learn
Tips for creating routines:
*Establish a pattern for time at home. Use pictures to show them what their day will look like including playtime, running errands, school, nap, therapies, snacks and meals, etc. For surprise activies, have a "something is different" or "surprise" card. It is important for children to understand that routines change, but having visuals to help them understand what is next will reduce the stress of a change.
*Use the same order during routine activities such as Getting ready for school or going to bed. Put those routines in pictures so that they can learn the routines. Use a clothes pin or "all done" basket so that the children understand where they are in their routine and how much they have left.
Sensory Strategies
This blog gives some great suggestions on how to handle sensory overload when out in public (and at home).
26 Sensory Integration Tools for Meltdown Management
26 Sensory Integration Tools for Meltdown Management
Sleep
The National Sleep Foundation suggests that preschool aged children get 11-13 hours of sleep every night. If your child is having difficulty sleeping, you should talk to your child's pediatrician. Autism Speaks discusses the issue of sleep and provides some resources for families.
Sleep and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Sleep and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Potty Training
TEACCH offer some strategies for potty training children with Autism.
Applying Structured Teaching Strategies to Potty Training
Applying Structured Teaching Strategies to Potty Training