Lesser Known Ways of Managing Stress as the Parent of a Child with Autism
Parent Perspective: How to Stress Less as a Autism Parent
Parents of children with autism experience stress levels comparable to those of combat soldiers, according to an article in The Disability Scoop (Diament, 2019). For many, like myself, this stress can become so constant and unrelenting that you may not even realize how chronic it has become. Yale Medicine defines chronic stress as “a consistent sense of feeling pressured and overwhelmed over a long period of time”—a definition that likely resonates with many autism parents (“Chronic Stress,” 2024).
While self-care is often recommended as a way to manage stress—think meditating, staying hydrated, getting sunshine, or exercising—those strategies aren’t always enough. And chances are, you’re already doing some of those things. What else can we do to effectively manage stress?
There are other things you can do to help lessen the load and many of them center around your support network—the people who help care for both you and your child. In this blog, we’ll explore how building the right support system and accessing helpful resources can be some of the most effective ways to manage your stress.
Let’s be honest: there are some days when eating junk food feels easier than preparing a healthy meal, and many times when splurging on a pedicure simply isn’t in the budget. Those forms of self-care may not always be sustainable or affordable, but a strong support network can continue to uplift you—even when you need to take a step back.
Find a positive, encouraging autism support group.
There are countless support groups available today, the key is finding the right one. But be careful—joining a group that tends to vent, quickly leads to complaining, and can only foster a sense of victimization, making you feel even more overwhelmed. On the other hand, an emotionally healthy group with a hopeful outlook can be incredibly encouraging and affirming. Connecting with others who understand your experience can provide a sense of solidarity and relief.
You can find local support groups through your child’s school or pediatrician’s office, or you can explore online communities across the country or even the world. Facebook groups and other online spaces often offer practical tips and ongoing encouragement, which can be helpful. But if you’re looking for something more personal, I recommend We Are Brave Together. This organization offers both online support and in-person retreats, which is the best of both worlds.
If a more structured approach doesn’t fit your nature, consider finding one or two individuals with whom you connect deeply. Having a smaller support system can still provide the camaraderie and encouragement you need.
When you find that group of people or even one special friend, you’ll be able to share your challenges and triumphs, making the journey feel a little less lonely and much more normal—at least normal for you.
Create a community completely separate from autism.
While it’s essential to have friends who understand your journey as a parent of a child with autism, it’s equally important to surround yourself with people who are completely removed from the world of special needs. Find a community that shares your interests or passions—something that’s purely about what you enjoy.
- Workout Classes or Groups: Maybe you’ve joined a Pilates class at the gym and connected with people who love it as much as you do. Beyond the class itself, you might grab lunch together afterward or even text each other about healthy meal ideas. Physical activity combined with positive social interactions is a great way to relieve stress.
- Book Clubs: If your passion is reading, join or start a book club. This type of community has multiple benefits; monthly gatherings with like-minded people and the opportunity to escape into a good story. Losing yourself in a fictional world, even briefly, can be a wonderful way to ease your mind.
- Places of Worship or Neighborhood Gatherings: Many people find a great sense of belonging in a church Bible study or neighborhood card game. Whatever it is, the key is to make sure it has nothing to do with parenting or your child. Choose a group where you can simply be yourself, independent of your role as a parent. This allows you to connect with others who know you for you, not just as a mom to a child with autism.
Taking time for yourself in a community completely unrelated to autism is vital. It gives you a chance to recharge and reconnect with your own identity while building relationships outside of your caregiving responsibilities.
Partner with a dedicated ABA provider.
When you find the right BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) and a team of ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapists to work with your child, you may feel an immediate sense of relief. It’s not that they provide the same type of emotional support as a friend or therapist, but they’ll walk alongside you through the struggles of autism and help implement effective and actionable strategies that may allow a layer of anxiety to fall away. An empathetic and diligent BCBA can bring both help and hope, offering guidance and support that sustains you for the long haul.
Speaking from personal experience, I can’t overstate how much my son’s ABA therapists have helped ease my stress. They help me manage my expectations, troubleshoot challenges, and develop practical and manageable (that’s key) plans for overcoming obstacles. When I feel overwhelmed or start projecting my fears about the future, talking things through with my son’s BCBA helps ground me in the present moment. Those conversations give me clarity and the strength to keep working through our current challenges.
Most of the time, you know right away whether a BCBA is the right fit for your child. It’s crucial for them to connect with both your child and you. A foundation of trust and mutual understanding is essential to building a productive, supportive relationship.
If you’re searching for an ABA provider or BCBA for your child, here are some things to look for:
- Do they ask thoughtful, engaging questions? A good BCBA will take the time to understand both your child’s needs and your concerns.
- Do they have a playful and approachable demeanor balanced with a firm, professional approach? This balance is critical in establishing trust with your child.
- Can they share success stories? Hearing examples of progress with other clients can give you confidence in their abilities.
- Are they open to incorporating your concerns and goals into your child’s programming? Collaborating is essential for ensuring you’re working toward the same outcomes.
- What is their communication style? Make sure they offer a clear way for you to connect with them regularly to stay updated and aligned.
The right ABA provider can make a world of difference—not just for your child, but for you, too.
They become a partner in the journey, helping to ease the weight on your shoulders while giving you the tools to navigate challenges with confidence.
Caring for the caregivers.
Having the right support system in place can make a world of difference in your stress and anxiety levels. This support can look different for everyone. Extroverted parents with high energy may thrive with a wide network of relationships that keep their mindset upbeat and positive. More introverted and reserved parents may find solace in a deep, meaningful connection with one trusted friend or an incredible therapist who understands their journey. Neither is more right than the other; what’s most important is finding which best suits your needs.
Even if you’re in a season where you feel like you don’t need much extra help or encouragement, now is the perfect time to build a safety net for the future. Life has its ups and downs, and having a system of support ready can make challenging times more manageable. In the meantime, you might also consider stepping into the role of a cheerleader for someone else—offering guidance, encouragement, and hope to a fellow parent in need. Your investment in someone else always comes with a greater return.
Autism is a journey, and it’s always better when we walk it together.
At BrightPath Behavior, our therapists are dedicated to creating a positive, playful environment for kids and building a hopeful, supportive partnership with parents. We aim to understand the needs of the whole family, and our goal is to walk alongside you every step of the path, holding out a light of hope for the journey ahead.
What are your ideas and questions?
We’d love to hear from you! Share your ideas, questions, and feedback in the comments below. Your input helps us continue providing helpful and insightful content about autism and ABA therapy.
If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow us.
Interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA?
Connect with BrightPath Behavior today! Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support your journey.
References
“Chronic Stress.” Yale Medicine, Yale Medicine, 25 Apr. 2024, www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/stress-disorder.
Diament, Michelle. “Autism Moms Have Stress Similar to Combat Soldiers – Disability Scoop.” Disability Scoop, 10 Nov. 2019, www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/11/10/autism-moms-stress/6121/.
Kathy McClelland is a freelance copywriter and marketer for pediatric healthcare and special education brands from Austin, Texas. Before becoming a mom, her work included promoting medical journals and online publications for the American Academy of Pediatrics and parenting books for Tyndale House Publishers. When her second son was born with a rare genetic condition, she was thrust into the world of special needs parenting. Her website is kathymcopywriting.com.
Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of BrightPath Behavior, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. My goal is to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences, as well as interviews conducted with the staff at BrightPath Behavior.
Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and does not replace professional advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or therapist for personalized guidance.
Celebrating the New Year: Setting ABA Goals for Your Child
Establishing significant and attainable objectives for an autistic child in the upcoming year is essential for their growth and overall well-being. Setting goals typically necessitates thoughtful planning and an understanding of the child’s individual strengths, requirements, and aspirations. The following is a comprehensive outline of effective strategies and methods for formulating these goals alongside your child’s BCBA.
Key factors to remember when establishing ABA goals for your child in the coming year.
Consider your child’s developmental appropriateness when setting goals. Confirm that the objectives align with the child’s abilities and developmental milestones. Objectives should focus on key aspects of a child’s growth, which can significantly improve their overall quality of life. These aspects may encompass:
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- Social Skills: Encouraging peer engagement, recognizing social signals, and building friendships are vital for individual development.
- Communication: Improving verbal and nonverbal communication skills enables children to articulate their thoughts and requirements effectively.
- Independence and Life Skills: Instructing on self-care and daily routines is crucial for fostering long-term success and self-sufficiency.
Integrating both short-term and long-term objectives into ABA goals.
Setting goals is very important for helping autistic children grow. Goals give clear guidance, allowing children to concentrate on particular skills, which boosts their confidence and motivation.
Short-term goals act as quick steps leading to more extensive, long-term goals, creating a structured learning process. Therefore, finding a good balance between these goals is essential for overall success.
Short-term goals help with the following:
- Boosting Independence: Within a set time, the child can work on performing self-care tasks, such as brushing their teeth, independently.
- Developing Communication Skills: The child can set a goal to start and keep a conversation going with a friend for at least five minutes during planned activities.
- Improving Social Skills: The child is encouraged to join group activities, emphasizing taking turns and playing together.
Long-term goals help with the following:
- Life Skills: Teaching crucial daily living skills like personal hygiene, cooking, and managing money to promote independence in adult life.
- Social Relationships: Improving social skills to build strong connections with friends throughout their lives.
Concentrating on constructive behaviors when setting ABA goals.
Caregivers can facilitate significant advancements in their children’s lives by concentrating on constructive behaviors. When setting goals for positive behaviors, it’s important to customize them based on the person’s strengths and challenges. This personalized method can include:
- Recognizing Strengths: Find out what activities the person enjoys and is good at. These can help encourage positive behavior.
- Setting Realistic Goals: Goals should be practical and doable, allowing for steady improvement. The SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) help keep goals clear and focused.
- Using Visual Aids: Adding visual tools like charts or pictures can clarify expectations and improve understanding of tasks.
Establishing meaningful and achievable goals for an autistic child is vital for their growth and overall well-being. Goals should be developmentally appropriate and focus on key areas such as social skills, communication, and independence. It is essential to strike a balance between short-term goals, such as having a five-minute conversation or mastering self-care routines, and long-term objectives, like developing life skills and nurturing meaningful relationships.
Concentrating on positive behaviors through personalized strategies can significantly enhance progress. By aligning these strategies, caregivers can empower children to thrive while boosting their confidence and independence.
References
Effective IEP Goals for Autism Spectrum Disorder. (2024). https://www.totalcareaba.com/autism/iep-goals-for-autism
Positive behaviour for autistic children and teenagers. (2024). Autism: understanding behaviour | Raising Children Network
Stephanie Alvarez, RBT, is in the BCBA Apprentice Program at BrightPath Behavior and works at the clinic in Katy, TX. Upon her initial introduction to the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), she confessed she had little understanding of the subject. However, with the guidance of an exceptional mentor, Stephanie quickly became acquainted with the principles of ABA. This experience ignited a passion in her, mainly because she recognized the profound impact that being an ABA therapist can have on clients.
How to Support Kids with Autism Through Holiday Letdown
Parent Perspective: Navigating Life Post-Holidays
The holidays are a lot. For autism parents, December is filled with constant planning and preparation in hopes that our children can navigate every holiday party, gift exchange, and Christmas pageant with ease. We take steps to ensure our kids don’t experience sensory overload or consume too much sugar, while in the midst of it all, we want to savor the joy and magic ourselves.
Seeing the holidays through our children’s eyes—the wonder of visiting Santa or the delight of opening another favorite gift—is a tremendous blessing to us as parents. Yet, as magical and stressful as the season can be, there’s a shared sense of sadness once it’s over. Another season has passed, and we’re faced with the transition back to the routines of daily life with autism.
While our kids often thrive on routine—even back to familiar schedules—it can still be challenging. That sense of holiday letdown is real, for both parents and kids. To help you and your child adjust to life post-holidays, here are some practical strategies for easing into 2025 with confidence and peace.
Reestablish routines gradually.
If you can take a couple of days to transition back to your routine, the adjustment will likely go much more smoothly. Small, gradual changes can make a big difference.
- Purge the holiday treats: Clear out leftover holiday sweets and reintroduce healthier options your child will enjoy.
- Ease back into therapy: Schedule therapy sessions before school starts again if possible. Ask your child’s therapists to include time to pair with your child and process their holiday experiences.
- Shift wake-up times: If your child has been sleeping during break, start waking them up earlier, inching closer to their regular schedule.
- Adjust bedtimes: Begin putting your child to bed closer to their typical school night routine.
I know these changes are hard to make as a parent. I often have the best intentions of putting my son to bed early, but when we’re cuddling on the couch at the end of the day, I don’t want to interrupt a sweet moment of connection. To be completely honest, I also don’t want to deal with a possible meltdown over going to bed.
If you need additional support with transitions, consider using a visual calendar or social story to help your child envision the return to their daily routine. These can set clear expectations for what’s ahead and help ease anxiety about upcoming changes.
Plan for downtime.
Before they return to school.
The holiday hustle can be both joyful and overstimulating. After things have quieted down, plan some intentional downtime to help your child decompress. Give them opportunities to spend extended periods of time at home, where they feel most safe and loved. During this free, unstructured time, encourage them to:
- Play with the new toys they received over the holidays.
- Rewatch their favorite Christmas movies.
- Use sensory tools to help them reregulate, such as swings, crash pads, and stim toys.
After they return to school.
Once your child returns to school, avoid filling your evenings with too many activities. Overscheduling them, whether therapy sessions, extracurriculars, or even errands make challenging behaviors more apt to occur. The transition back to school and therapy often places increased demands on your child, and they may need more time to adjust. Allow them the space to unwind in their familiar environment where they can decompress after a busy day.
Create a soothing environment at home. I find making home cozy and inviting in the winter months, helps our whole family, especially my autistic son. Once the Christmas tree comes down things can feel barren and depressing, but you can still have a fire in the fireplace, keep the lights low, cover yourselves in weighted blankets, and play soft music signaling to your child that it’s time to slow down.
Reminisce about the holiday highlights
It’s important for kids with autism to have outlets to process and express their feelings about big events, same as all of us. Whether your child is speaking or uses an AAC device, create opportunties of them to talk about the holidays.
For example, after significant events in our family, we add special memories to my son’s AAC device under a page called “Life Events.” This allows him to revisit moments like attending summer camp, dressing up for Halloween, or spending time with cousins and grandparents during Christmas in another state. By doing this, we gain insight into what’s important to him and better prepare him for future trips and events.
Here are some questions to help guide your conversations:
- People they saw: Who did you spend time with? Grandparents, cousins, friends?
- Special events: What activities did you enjoy the most? Baking cookies, visiting Santa, opening gifts?
- Feelings: How do you feel now that the holidays are over? Happy, sad, relieved?
It’s okay if your child is repetitive or hyperfocused on one thing in particular. As they process their experience they may begin to perseverate, but remember how important it is to give them a way to talk about what they loved, or hated, about this time of year.
Plan something to look forward to
Transitions are easier when there’s something exciting to look forward to. While returning to routines can feel bittersweet, creating new events or goals can help both you and your child shift focus to what’s ahead.
Here are some ways to anticipate new things in the coming year:
- Mark it on your calendar: Visually highlight upcoming events your child might enjoy like Valentine’s Day or a fun family outing.
- Start a new tradition: January can feel like a dull month, but you can make it special. For instance, plan a “Winter Fun Day” where you play in the snow or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate together.
- Set small goals: Write down a few achievable goals for 2025, such as learning a new skill or earning a reward for completing daily tasks. Post these in a visible spot, like the kitchen, to remind your child of what they’re working toward.
If you’re unsure of what to look forward to, ask your child’s ABA clinician for suggestions. They may have creative ideas for incorporating fun, motivating activities into therapy sessions. The new year is a great time to introduce new approaches to help your child reach their goals while keeping them engaged and excited.
A fresh start for the new year
As hard as the holidays are, it’s also hard to face when they are finished. I have mixed feelings about going back to real life after wearing PJs till noon, shopping sales, and going out to the movies. For kids with autism, the adjustment can feel especially challenging and may bring out some problematic behaviors. With patience, preparation, and a little creative redirection, you can help your child ease into 2025 with hope. As you guide them, don’t forget to celebrate the small victories along the way—both theirs and yours. It may not be exactly how you envisioned but it can still be good.
Here’s to a fresh start and a happy new year for you and your family!
What are your ideas and questions?
We value your feedback! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Your input helps us continue providing insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.
If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.
Interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA?
Connect with BrightPath Behavior today. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support your journey.
Kathy McClelland is a freelance copywriter and marketer for pediatric healthcare and special education brands from Austin, Texas. Before becoming a mom, her work included promoting medical journals and online publications for the American Academy of Pediatrics and parenting books for Tyndale House Publishers. When her second son was born with a rare genetic condition, she was thrust into the world of special needs parenting. Her website is kathymcopywriting.com.
Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of BrightPath Behavior, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. My goal is to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences, as well as interviews conducted with the staff at BrightPath Behavior.
Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and does not replace professional advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or therapist for personalized guidance.
Photo used with permission by the blog author.
Supporting Independence and Self-Help Skills in Children with Autism
Encouraging independence and teaching self-help skills are essential for supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Helping children gain the ability to manage everyday tasks on their own not only boosts their confidence but also reduces their reliance on external support. This guide offers practical strategies to promote independence at various stages of development, tailored to children with autism.
Autism in Early Childhood (Ages 3-6)
In early childhood, the focus is on laying a strong foundation for self-help skills while fostering independence. Children at this stage thrive in environments with clear, structured routines and visual supports.
Key Strategies:
- Visual Schedules and Cues: Visual schedules help children understand the steps involved in everyday tasks, such as getting dressed or brushing their teeth. Breaking tasks into manageable steps with visual cues can reduce anxiety and encourage children to complete tasks independently.
- Task Analysis: Large tasks can feel overwhelming. Breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps allows children to take on more responsibility gradually.
- Modeling and Imitation: Children learn best by watching others at this age. Video modeling, where children watch videos of themselves or peers completing tasks, is an effective way to teach skills such as washing hands or tying shoes.
Autism in Middle Childhood (Ages 7-12)
As children grow older, they are ready to tackle more complex tasks. Middle childhood is an ideal time to promote greater independence at home and school by encouraging children to take on responsibilities like homework or preparing simple meals.
Key Strategies:
- Self-Monitoring: Encouraging children to track their progress with tools like checklists helps them become more aware of their routines and builds self-reliance.
- Task Sequencing and Work Systems: A structured system helps children understand the steps they need to take and when a task is complete. This method is helpful for chores or schoolwork, helping children stay organized and become more independent.
- Problem-Solving: At this stage, children can begin learning to solve problems independently. Teaching them strategies for breaking down tasks or asking for help fosters resilience.
Autism in Adolescence (Ages 13-18)
Adolescence is a crucial time for preparing young people with autism for greater independence as they transition to adulthood. This stage focuses on applying learned skills to real-world situations, such as managing money, cooking, and maintaining personal hygiene.
Key Strategies:
- Self-Advocacy: Encouraging adolescents to advocate for themselves—whether at school, in social settings, or at work—is key to developing independence. Keeping a journal to track goals and progress can help adolescents reflect and make adjustments.
- Video Self-Modeling: Watching videos of themselves, completing tasks like cooking, or managing a schedule reinforces adolescents’ abilities and boosts their confidence.
- Social Skills Training: Developing communication skills is essential for navigating social environments. Programs that teach skills such as initiating conversations or reading social cues can help adolescents feel more confident.
- Life Skills Training: Teaching practical life skills, such as budgeting, shopping, and meal preparation, helps adolescents prepare for independent living. These skills can be taught through real-life experiences, using checklists or visual prompts.
These strategies empower children and teens with autism to gain independence, decrease reliance on external supports, and enhance their confidence and readiness for future challenges.
References
Koegel, R. L., & Koegel, L. K. (2006). The Pivotal Response Treatment approach to autism. The Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 8(3), 116-130.
Odom, S. L., Boyd, B. A., Hall, L. J., & Hume, K. A. (2010). Evaluation of comprehensive treatment models for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 40(4), 425-436.
Schopler, E., & Mesibov, G. B. (2005). Teaching children with autism: Strategies to enhance communication and socialization. New York: Guilford Press.
Vismara, L. A., & Rogers, S. J. (2010). Evidence-based comprehensive treatments for early autism. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 39(1), 35-52.
Aline O’Brynt is an Apprentice and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) at the Academy Clinic in Colorado Springs. With a background in Psychology from Capella University and a 4.0 GPA in her Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Aline combines academic excellence with a passion for early intervention and individualized care. Her journey into ABA began with her interest in child development after the birth of her first child, leading to a career focused on supporting children with autism and their families.
Aline is dedicated to creating meaningful progress through evidence-based practices, compassionate care, and parent training. Her ultimate goal is to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and help children reach their full potential. Outside of work, Aline enjoys immersing herself in different cultures and learning new languages, bringing a broad perspective to her work and life.
Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids with Autism
Parent Perspective: What to Buy Your Child this Year
This Christmas, I’ll buy my son yet another replica of his favorite toy—just like I do every year. He is obsessed with what we call “ball within a ball.” To him, it makes the most magnificent sound when he shakes it over and over again. For the rest of us, it’s a sound we’ve grown accustomed to—part of the background noise of our home. Although I’ll admit, it can get a little grating during road trips. Still, it’s the perfect gift for him, year after year, bringing pure joy every time he opens it.
As much as my son will experience delight opening (probably his fifteenth) “ball within a ball” this year, I wish I could find other gifts he’d genuinely enjoy. Gift shopping for kids with autism can be challenging. It often takes time for them to warm up to a new toy; some toys are rejected altogether.
In this blog, I’ve rounded up ideas for sensory-friendly toys and developmentally engaging games that might bring joy to your child this holiday season. While they may not replace their favorite stim toy, these gifts could help with sensory challenges and encourage meaningful play.
Gifts for sensory seekers.
Pod Swing:
If you have a sensory seeker in your home, you may want to try one of these swings. Our favorite is the pod swing. It provides more input around your child’s upper body compared to a platform swing but not so much compression that it becomes difficult to get in and out of. Another bonus is its versatility–you can use it both indoors and outdoors, depending on the season and your child’s preferences. We absolutely love this swing!
OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Cotton Child Hammock Chair for Indoor and Outdoor use.
Harkla Hug:
For kids constantly leaning against you or pressing their bodies into pillows and blankets around the house, the Harkla Hug is an excellent alternative. My son went through a phase where we would climb right inside it after school and start shaking his beloved “ball within a ball.” It gave him a way to decompress, much like how I unwind by scrolling through my phone. It’s a truly great gift!
Stocking stuffers for the constant fidgeter.
If you have a child whose hands are in constant motion, these toys are worth checking out! Silly Putty is a classic that never goes out of style. Wiki Sticks are a fun, newer option—bendable wax sticks that can be shaped into endless designs. Both offer limitless possibilities for creativity and provide the perfect outlet for fidgety hands, helping your child stay engaged and focused.
Silly Putty:
Crayola Original Silly Putty Packaging May Vary (Pack of 6)
Wiki Sticks:
The gift of sleep all night long.
If your child needs their bedroom to be just so right before bed, this could be the perfect present. The Tranquil Turtle combines a nightlight, sound machine, and sensory toy all in one. For kids who rely on a sound machine or nightlight to wind down, this adds extra comfort and fun to their bedtime routine. We don’t have one in our house, but it’s definitely on my list!
Fun gifts for helping manage big emotions.
If you have a child with big feelings, a stress ball or pinch putty can provide a helpful outlet for expressing their emotions. I especially love these fruit-shaped stress balls because they serve their purpose and teach kids about different foods. Unlike most stress balls, these are specifically designed for young children.
Mindful maze toys are another fantastic option—they offer a calming distraction and help fuel a sense of regulation as your child traces the patterns with their finger. All of these make excellent stocking stuffers!
Stress Ball:
Schylling NeeDoh Groovy Fruit – Sensory Fidget Toy – Multiple Shapes – Ages 3 to Adult (Pack of 1)
Pinch Putty:
Pinch Me Therapy Dough – Holistic Aromatherapy Stress Relieving Putty – 10 Ounce Spa Scent
Mindful Maze Boards:
Presents for the stuffed animal lover.
If your child can’t go anywhere without a stuffie, why not introduce them to a plush version of Julia from Sesame Street? Julia is a character with autism, making her a familiar and fun companion and an excellent opportunity to start conversations with your child about their own autism and the similarities they may share with Julia.
Julia Doll from Sesame Street:
Repeat gifts for the creature of habit.
If you’re still unsure about what to get your child this holiday season, consider reaching out to your child’s ABA therapists or teachers. They might have noticed something your child has gravitated toward that will give you a new idea—a therapy toy or a tool they’re thinking about introducing in future therapy sessions. Over the years, my son’s therapist have given us some fantastic ideas we would’ve never thought of on our own.
As you shop for you child this year, my biggest piece of advice is: don’t overthink it. Go ahead and buy the same gift you’ve been giving year after year. Even if the novelty has worn off for you, chances are your child will be as thrilled as ever. Seeing their face light up with joy as they open yet another version of their favorite toy makes it all worthwhile.
What are your gift ideas?
We love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Your input helps us continue providing insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.
If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.
Interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA?
Connect with BrightPath Behavior today. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support your journey.
Kathy McClelland is a freelance copywriter and marketer for pediatric healthcare and special education brands from Austin, Texas. Before becoming a mom, her work included promoting medical journals and online publications for the American Academy of Pediatrics and parenting books for Tyndale House Publishers. When her second son was born with a rare genetic condition, she was thrust into the world of special needs parenting. Her website is kathymcopywriting.com.
Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of BrightPath Behavior, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. My goal is to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences, as well as interviews conducted with the staff at BrightPath Behavior.
Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and does not replace professional advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or therapist for personalized guidance.
Promoting Social Skills in Autistic Children
Developing social skills is essential for all young children, but it can be especially challenging for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These children often face difficulties communicating, understanding social cues, and forming connections with their peers. However, with the proper support and strategies, they can build meaningful relationships with others and develop social skills to help them navigate the world around them. This post explores effective ways to promote social skills in young children with autism and foster friendships.
1. Use Structured Play to Teach Social Interactions
Structured play is an effective way to teach children with autism about social interactions. This type of play allows children to practice communication and interactions with others in a predictable, controlled setting. For example, role-playing games can help them understand conversational turns, eye contact, and shared attention. Activities like building blocks, turn-taking games, and role-play involving everyday social situations, such as grocery shopping or playing house, can provide valuable practice for real-life interactions (National Research Council, 2001).
Parents and educators can also incorporate visual supports, such as picture schedules, to guide children through different steps of a play activity. Structured play offers predictability, which is often comforting for autistic children, and it enables adults to model appropriate social behaviors in a way that feels safe and manageable for the child.
2. Encourage Peer-Mediated Interventions
Peer-mediated intervention is a highly effective method for supporting social skill development in children with autism. This approach involves training typically developing peers to interact with autistic children, helping them learn social norms, friendship-building skills, and ways to respond to social cues. Research shows that peer-mediated interventions can increase the social engagement of children with autism and create opportunities for genuine friendships (Chan et al., 2009).
One way to implement this is by pairing autistic children with peers who are empathetic, patient, and willing to help them navigate social situations. Adults can guide these interactions, encouraging peers to use simple, straightforward language and prompting the children with autism to respond or initiate conversations. By observing and imitating their peers, autistic children better understand social expectations in a natural setting.
3. Teach Emotional Recognition and Regulation
Understanding emotions is a critical component of social interaction, but it can be challenging for children with autism. They may struggle to identify their own emotions or recognize the feelings of others, which can impact their ability to relate to peers. Teaching children how to identify and regulate emotions can help them develop empathy and improve their social skills.
Emotion-based interventions, like using flashcards with facial expressions, reading books about emotions, or using apps specifically designed to teach emotional recognition, can help children learn to recognize and label feelings. According to a study by Denham et al. (2012), teaching emotional recognition can improve social interactions by assisting children to understand the emotions of those around them, leading to more positive social experiences. Parents and educators can reinforce these lessons by acknowledging and labeling emotions during real-life situations, creating a more supportive environment for emotional growth.
4. Create a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Creating a supportive and inclusive environment is essential for helping children with autism develop social skills. When children feel safe and understood, they are more likely to engage in social interactions. One way to foster inclusivity is by educating peers about autism in a developmentally appropriate way, helping them understand that everyone has different ways of communicating and interacting.
Parents and Educators can also establish routines that promote a sense of predictability, making social interactions less intimidating for autistic children. Additional strategies include allowing for quiet breaks, providing visual cues, and maintaining a structured yet flexible routine, all of which can help children with autism feel more comfortable in social settings.
Final Thoughts
Promoting social skills in autistic children requires patience, consistency, and understanding. By using structured play, encouraging peer interactions, teaching emotional recognition, and creating a supportive environment, parents and educators can help children with autism build meaningful friendships and confidently navigate social situations. These early interventions can have a lasting impact, providing children with the social tools they need to thrive as they grow.
References
- National Research Council. (2001). Educating children with autism. National Academy Press.
- Chan, J. M., Lang, R., Rispoli, M., O’Reilly, M., Sigafoos, J., & Cole, H. (2009). Peer-mediated interventions to promote play-based social interactions for children with autism spectrum disorder. Psychology in the Schools, 46(7), 627-639.
- Denham, S. A., Bassett, H. H., & Wyatt, T. (2012). The socialization of emotional competence. Handbook of Socialization: Theory and Research, 590-613.