Obsessive and repetitive behaviour is something you will often see in Autistic children. Unlike the majority of children who go through crazes, with one game being their favourite one week and something entirely different the next.
Autistic children can have one obsession they would do or talk about all day if they could!
This type of obsessing can have an enormous impact on their behaviour and can become a real challenge if it’s not dealt with in the right way. I once worked with a child who was obsessed with public transport, so for example, if one particular day a bus wasn’t running it’s usual schedule, this would envelope into a very stressful situation for the him.
Something that we would just shrug off as an irritation or interruption in our routine CAN leave an Autistic child very distressed for hours or even the rest of the day.
So what can you do about it?…
…Become their personal superhero and make sure there are never any implications in their life?
Of course not.
BUT as a parent once you figure out what their obsession is, you will have a massive advantage!
Let me explain why…
Because you can now be in control.
Firstly you can use their obsession as a reward or motivator for good behaviour. The same way a reward chart works, but you know FOR SURE this is something that will really encourage your child to behave in the way you’re asking.
And secondly, you can now set boundaries of how long they can do or talk about their obsession and even make this part of their daily routine, so that it’s clear and easy for them to understand.
Later in the process I will go through in detail how to use these strategies with simple templates for you to use.
Speak with you soon, until then
Live every moment, Love beyond words and make a difference today!
Emma Ottaway
The Autism Support Specialist
