Inflexible and rigid thinkers are something I personally have come across many a time while working with Autistic children, and many parents ask me, how they can overcome this.
I always say, with consistency, patience and a positive mind-set you can achieve great things with your ASD child.
Now the rule-bound “Not gonna budge” kind of attitude can have it’s benefits, don’t get me wrong but in the big wide world this type of thinking will only limit your child/young adult in their experiences.
Assuming you have a “Family calendar” or “Children’s calendar” at home (depending on your child’s individual needs.) Amongst the various, clubs, important dates, family visits ect. Start to introduce a question mark (?) occasionally.
Sound daunting?
Well, to begin with make the ? signify something fun/exciting, e.g. a new snack, a surprise trip or new boat socks!
Monitor this. Then slowly but surely, lessen the desirable situations, WHEN and only when, you can identify a shift in their ability to tolerate small changes in their routine/calendar.
This technique if done correctly can change a whole lot of things for the better in your child and whole family’s lifestyle. Creating surprises or mystery in an Autistic child’s schedule will help them deal with the inevitable surprises in everyday life.
If you don’t already have a calendar I would recommend getting one, if not only for this technique. Family or individual calendars can be easily purchased or you could even make one with your child in no time if you’re feeling creative one afternoon!
Speak with you soon, until then
Live every moment, Love beyond words and make a difference today!
Emma Ottaway
The Autism Support Specialist
