Tag Archive for: autism

Navigating the Screen Time Tightrope: Balancing Tech for Kids with Autism

Parent Perspective: The Pros and Cons of Screen Time for Children with Autism

There is no escaping technology. The children we’re raising today live in a world vastly different from our childhoods. Gone are the days of endless outdoor play and hours of choreographing talent shows to mixed tapes (or, for those younger, burning CDs). The only interaction many of us had with video games as kids was playing the Oregon Trail on the classroom desktop computer. While we lament what our children may miss, there are undeniable benefits to living in a more technologically advanced society. 

The debate over whether screen time has adverse effects on children with autism is ongoing. I do not have the clinical data to take a stand either way. However, as a parent of a child with autism, I have firsthand experience navigating screen time. I’ve noticed both the pros and cons of screen usage. Here, I share some insights into managing screen time and offer suggestions for determining your approach. 

It’s beneficial to carefully consider how you integrate screens into your home—whether it’s an iPad, cell phone, laptop, TV, Kindle, video games, or even a smartwatch. Planning allows you to establish boundaries and anticipate challenges, guiding you toward a balanced approach that works best for your family.

screen time and kids with autism

Pros of Screentime

​​There are numerous benefits for neurodivergent children using various devices and technology, especially those created specifically for kids with autism, speech delays, or other developmental challenges. Here are some ways screen time may be beneficial for your child:

Technology can be a talking tool – Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Technology can provide a means of communication and self-expression for non-speaking children with autism. Many AAC programs are available on devices like iPads and enable non-verbal children to communicate effectively, opening new avenues of expression that might not otherwise be accessible. Some popular AAC tools include:

While there’s concern that AAC might deter verbal communication in speaking children, studies show the opposite. AAC may be a valuable option for communicating when children are fatigued. Some individuals find it easier to express themselves more fully through AAC, complementing their verbal expression. Technologies developed by major software and hardware speech manufacturers (not all AAC is installed on an iPad) serve as tools to enhance communication, which is a significant advantage.

Technology can be a learning tool — Educational Apps and Games

Technology is a powerful educational tool, offering thousands of apps and games tailored to various learning needs and interests. Whether your child has an aptitude for a specific subject or needs to develop in a particular area, chances are there’s an app to help them. Here are just a few examples of apps for different areas of learning, including reading, literacy, science, coding, and memory games: 

Even games like Minecraft allow kids to learn spatial awareness and design 3-dimensional spaces in an animated realm. When choosing apps and games for your child, focus on those that align with their interests and areas where they can grow.

Our educational system has embraced the use of technology in classrooms as an effective learning tool. As parents, we can do the same. It’s a matter of selecting the right websites and apps for your child. 

Technology can be a social and saftey tool — Text Messaging and Video Calling.

Not all technology prevents connection and socialization. In fact, some types of technology allow us to interact in ways that we otherwise wouldn’t be able to. Text messaging and video calling allow children, including those using AAC, to socialize with family and friends safely and meaningfully. Contrary to isolating, some technologies facilitate social interaction.

Digital communication methods provide vital social connections, enhancing communication skills and even offering a way to communicate with a parent or caregiver if they are in a potentially unsafe situation. The following resources help parents keep their kids safe in social settings:

Technology can be a creative tool — Photography and Social Supports.

Many autistic children have a visual inclination and enjoy capturing and reflecting on images. Whether taking photos themselves or exploring pictures on a caregiver’s phone, photography can help them understand their world and relationships.

 Additionally, photography and video can support applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy by creating visual supports and social stories, aiding in learning and vocabulary development. Here are some app ideas for fostering creativity and visual supports:

Technology can be a tool for entertainment.

We can’t ignore the upsides of using technology for entertainment. Many of us tend to view using technology for entertainment as a downside to screens. However, there are moments when we need our kids to sit still and be entertained. There isn’t a mom out there who hasn’t expressed a sigh of relief as they hand their child a phone while waiting at the doctor’s office. 

While often viewed negatively, technology can provide essential entertainment and relaxation. Whether calming a child following an extended therapy session or allowing them to unwind after a day of school, screen time offers familiar and predictable activities that may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation for kids. Here are the favorites in our house:

Cons of Screentime

Now, let’s look at the cons. Many of us are probably very familiar with the consequences of technology and screen usage, whether through personal experience or a fear that it’s becoming a big problem we can’t control. Screen time effects are a real concern. Understanding what we’re up against as parents can help us decide our non-negotiables as well as give ourselves some grace when screens introduce challenges we didn’t expect. 

Technology can prevent real, authentic social interaction.

While technology can promote social interaction, it can also isolate your child. When a child is given a device to use whenever and however they want, it can become a real danger. Setting limits around the time and exposure your child has to screens may prevent this from becoming an insurmountable problem.

If your child tends to stim on a screen, it prevents them from staying present. Whether they are compulsive swipers who can’t stay engaged with one show or activity, there may need to be certain restrictions. The Guided Access functionality on an iPad helps those kiddos who like to bounce from app to app and video to video. Or, if your child repeatedly watches the same movie, it may be time to expose them to different shows or activities. These are examples of behaviors an ABA clinician may be able to implement into your child’s programming. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask your ABA provider, such as ABA Connect, for help. 

Technology can be overstimulating.

Many kids with autism tend for their sensory systems to become overloaded. If this is your child, watch how they react to high screen usage. Factors contributing to sensory overload include the device’s volume level, screen brightness, and whether it is used in a dark or brightly lit area. Consider what types of videos, songs, and apps get your child hyped up. Directing them toward content that creates a more calm and regulated nervous system response, such as slow, repetitive music and lower-volume videos, may help them stay within their window of tolerance. Here are some possible apps to help calm your child:

Technology can be an alternate reality.

Some kids prefer to live in a virtual world rather than a real one. Games that include virtual reality (VR) simulate real-life experiences, which may be more exciting or enticing to your child than their actual environment. However, spending time outdoors in nature offers an antidote of sorts. Mother Nature operates at a much slower pace than we do. During a hike or bike ride, your child may begin to experience a healthy contrast to the fast-paced realm of technology. Engaging with nature may enable their nervous system to mimic this slower pace.

Also, consider how videos with compelling storylines may become replacements for reading a book. There is something unique and beneficial in forming pictures to a story within your child’s imagination. When technology prevents kids from spending time outdoors or reading, they miss out on engaging with their environment meaningfully. This may be a sign that it’s time to step back from technology.

Moderation with Screentime

Like many things, there’s no hard and fast rule for approaching screen time with your child. Perhaps the best approach is moderation. 

  • Set limits. 
  • Encourage the types of technology that lead to connection. 
  • Stay engaged in what your child is watching or using. 
  • Try not to feel guilty if your child uses technology more than you would like. 

Sometimes, in life, things aren’t quite where we want them to be. Knowing where we want to be can help us get there with a plan and a good dose of patience. 

Our Journey with Screen Time

My son didn’t show much interest in screens, whether a TV, phone, or iPad until he was four or five. I actually wanted him to engage with technology because I knew an AAC device could be a helpful tool for him to communicate. 

Working with a speech-language pathologist and an assistive technology expert, we presented him with different AAC programs. He wasn’t interested. Also, he had not yet developed a pointer finger, which is essential to a touchscreen device. I recruited an occupational therapist to help him form one. It didn’t matter what she did; he showed no signs of being able to isolate his finger. Until he discovered YouTube Kids on an iPad! Everything changed from there. 

Watching entertaining videos was a gateway to making technology more functional. My son didn’t start showing interest in using his “talker” (what we call is AAC device) until he first experienced immediate gratification from swiping around on YouTube Kids and PBS Kids. In that respect, I am incredibly thankful for handheld devices. Yes, they can become detrimental to real-life engagement, but overall, they opened up my son’s world in a whole new way. 

Every child’s journey is unique. Maybe there’s something different—another way your child can grow and expand through technology. Remember, technology can be very engaging and motivating. If you need ideas for how to use a device or application to help your child grow, ask your child’s BCBA or ABA clinician. They may have ideas for how to use screens for their greater good. 

What are your biggest questions or concerns about screen time usage with your child? 

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. If you found this post helpful, please feel free to like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

If a positive, play-based approach to ABA appeals to you, we invite you to reach out to ABA Connect. The friendly team at ABA Connect is always ready to help answer your questions.

Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of ABA Connect, 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 ABA Connect.

Warning: Not Having a Summer Schedule May Create Extra Stress (but it’s not too late to make one!)

A Parent’s Perspective: 5 Lessons I Learned About Creating a Plan for the Summer

Last summer, I hoped for chill vibes. I did very little scheduling of playdates, camps, or additional therapies. I thought we would take things as they came and try to be more easygoing and spontaneous. But instead of feeling more rested and relaxed, I realized we were WAY more stressed out. We are the type of family that actually thrives on routine.

Not everyone likes to plan or is naturally inclined to do so. But I’m willing to bet that whatever your personality type—from free-spirited to a penciled-in planner—your child with autism needs to know what to expect.

Our kids like routine, repetition, and an overall understanding of what will happen next. Predictability makes them feel safe. I get that. Some of us adults need that, too {Ahem!}. When school lets out, our kids have wide-open schedules. Everything that has been part of their lives for the last nine months is gone. Even if we must continue working through the summer, they still need things to do to fill their days. And it’s up to you to plan it.

Don’t worry. Making a plan that will work for you and your family doesn’t have to be hard. In this blog post, you’ll have five things to consider about how to spend your time this summer.

summer

Lesson One: Have a morning routine.

Start your day on the right foot by deciding on a morning ritual that works well for both you and your child. Whether it’s savoring a cup of coffee, working out, or indulging in some quiet reading time, identify activities that help you set a positive tone for the day ahead. Take note of your child’s morning preferences and routines, too. Do they enjoy breakfast, watching a favorite TV show, or engaging with a preferred toy? 

If you don’t have a morning routine and have never thought through good ways to start your day, here are some ideas for you:

  • Enjoying a cup of coffee or tea while reading the news
  • Going for a morning jog or walk
  • Practicing yoga or meditation
  • Listening to a favorite podcast or music playlist
  • Writing in a journal or practicing gratitude
  • Preparing a nutritious breakfast for the family
  • Taking a refreshing shower or bath
  • Doing a quick workout or stretching routine
  • Checking work emails or planning the day’s tasks
  • Having a quiet moment of reflection or prayer

Some ideas for your child, in no particular order: 

  • Eating breakfast
  • Watching cartoons
  • Going outside for a morning walk
  • Engaging in morning play or quiet activities
  • Singing songs or listening to music

When you are thinking through your ideal morning routine, consider your child’s waking patterns—do they wake up early or sleep in late—and how they transition into the day. 

We thrive on having a slow wake-up. During the school year, we rush to catch the bus. So, this summer, we will savor those slow mornings. After leisurely waking up, we take a walk. My son doesn’t love going outside, but by making it a daily routine, he is less resistant to it. We’re not out for long, just enough to get some fresh air before the sun gets too hot.

Once we’re back from our walk, I feel established for the day ahead.

Lesson Two: Enjoy summer foods

As part of your summer plan, why not make meals easy and enjoyable? Think fresh salads, grilling out, and dining out—summer food can be simple and delightful with this approach.

Summer is also a great time to encourage your child to try new foods. I know our autistic kids might be hesitant about new or novel food choices, but it can be a fun adventure if you’re up for it. Here are a couple of ideas:

  • Grocery Store Exploration: During your weekly grocery trips, let your child pick out a new food to try. This can make the experience more engaging and less intimidating. Plus, won’t it be fascinating to see what they select?
  • Farmer’s Market Fun: Visit a local farmer’s market and help your child learn about different fruits and vegetables. Start with a colorful fruit or vegetable—if they don’t want to eat it, they can play with it, and gradually work up to adding it into meals.

Adding a bit of novelty to meal planning can be enjoyable for us as well as our kids. Plus, it introduces variety and excitement to your summer meals.

That said, if you need to avoid fighting with your child about food this summer, consider taking the convenient approach. For instance, let them have their favorite food every day at lunchtime. You may want to consult with your child’s BCBA to determine if this fits with their overall goals and if it does, fully embrace the simplicity of knowing what’s for lunch every day. 

Lesson Three: Choose some weekly activities…but not too many

It’s easy to fill your summer with camps and other activities. While these can be fun and have their place (check out our blog post on planning for camp), attending a camp every day can be exhausting. Choosing a few weekly activities without over-committing leaves you with a nice balance of events for the summer. 

Here are some of the weekly activities we’ve found worked really well for us:

Swim lessons. 

Most kids love the water, and if you have access to a pool or lake during the summer, it’s worth investing in swim lessons. Even if they don’t like to swim, it is an important safety skill to learn. Many cities have adaptive swim lessons for kids with special needs. My son loves the water and we found a private lesson teacher who can give him one-on-one instruction. Having a weekly swim lesson is something he looks forward to, and it helps me to gauge his swimming skills and decide on additional pool trips throughout the week. Plus, swimming is not only fun but also tires kids out, making it a great weekly activity.

Library Trips.

Many local libraries have summer reading programs. These programs can be a great reason to visit the library, but you don’t have to be all-in on the competition. Read a few books, and earn a prize or two. We enjoy going to the library for the experience and bringing home books to read throughout the week. Library trips are a favorite, and they also give me a reason to sit down and read with my son during the season when he’s not in school. 

Quiet Times. 

After lunch, we take a quiet time to read and rest. It’s an excellent way to take a midday break around 1 or 2 o’clock. Sitting in a cool, dark room to read books from the library to take a short nap helps us recharge. Summer days are long, and for mom and dad to make it through to bedtime, an afternoon siesta for them can be very beneficial. 

Lesson Four: Prepare for going on vacation

Vacations can be unpredictable, which can be challenging for children with autism. While you can structure your time at home during the summer, planning a trip introduces new activities, environments, and foods, often without a clear order or schedule. Though vacations are meant to be fun, the spontaneity and differences can be overwhelming for some kids.

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, here are some tips:

  • Set Expectations – Talk about where you are going, how long you’ll be there, and what activities you’ll do. Setting these expectations can help alleviate some of your child’s anxieties.
  • Pack Wisely – Bring noise-canceling headphones if you expect a loud environment. If typical food options won’t be available, pack groceries or snacks your child likes. Don’t forget to include your child’s comfort items, like favorite toys or blankets, to help them feel secure.

By preparing in advance, you can help your child enjoy the vacation and make it a positive experience for the whole family. 

Lesson Five: Increase the frequency of therapy

Summertime is an excellent opportunity to increase therapy sessions or even enroll in an intensive program. With more time available, you can invest in your child’s development. Many centers offer programs focused on specific skill development, such as intensive physical therapy or handwriting camps. ABA therapy is also a fantastic option for the summer.

If your child is already in ABA, consider increasing their therapy hours. Meet with your child’s BCBA to set specific summer goals. Work on these goals both inside and outside of therapy sessions. 

You can also request to do ABA sessions out in the community. For example, we bring our ABA therapists to the grocery store to practice not stimming in the produce section. We also take them with us to the library, so I know how to handle unexpected behaviors in public.

If your child is struggling with something, use the summer to address it. Focus on one or two areas, rather than trying to tackle a long list. Make these areas your summer project, and involve a therapist to guide you along the way. ABA Connect is always available to help. 

Avoid Summer Stress with a Good Plan

Creating a summertime schedule may help your child maintain their sense of calm and regulation while also helping your overall well-being. Remember, not every second of their day needs to be planned out. Think through your schedule a bit, get some input from your child, and communicate your plans to them. This way, everyone will have clear expectations, and you can spend more time enjoying the summer rather than feeling stressed out and reactive.

You could wing it. But I propose you plan for it. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable summer for everyone. 

So, what are your summer plans?

Please share your ideas in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you, and so would fellow parents of kids with autism. If you found this post helpful, please feel free to like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

If a positive, play-based approach to ABA appeals to you, we invite you to reach out to ABA Connect. The friendly team at ABA Connect is always ready to help answer your questions.

Please keep in mind that while I am a consultant writing on behalf of ABA Connect, 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 ABA Connect.

Holiday Planning that Makes Room for Autism

A Parent’s Perspective: No more holiday stress

The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for parents and caregivers of children with autism, it can also bring unique challenges as well as full-on stress. I think the pressures of the holiday season make special needs parenting ten times harder than the rest of the year. 

The sensory overload, crowded gatherings, and disruptions to routines can make this time of year incredibly overwhelming for your child and yourself. At ABA Connect, we want every child and their family to enjoy the festivities while considering the specific needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. As a parent, I know this is easier said than done. In this blog, we’ll explore a few proactive tips to help your holiday season go smoothly.

holiday stress autism

Sensory Challenges and Solutions

Preparing for Loud Music and Flashing Lights

The bright lights and blaring music that often accompany holiday events can be overwhelming for children with autism. To help your child navigate these sensory situations, it’s essential to have strategies in place. By now, you probably understand your child’s unique sensitivities well. 

Pack sensory tools such as:

  • Headphones
  • Sunglasses
  • Comfort Items
  • Essential Oils
  • Weighted Blanket or Vest

An occupational therapist may develop a personalized sensory diet for your child, but Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques can also help. 

ABA Connect offers individualized strategies to help children cope and enjoy stimulating environments. By gradually exposing your child to sensory stimuli in a controlled manner, they can build tolerance over time. For example, start playing soft holiday music at home before gradually increasing the volume. Or, let your child be in charge of turning on holiday lights at home. 

Setting Clear Expectations for Large Family Gatherings

Crowded family events during the holidays can be challenging for children with autism who struggle with social interactions or feel uncomfortable around unfamiliar faces. 

Setting expectations is key:

  • Decide on an arrival and departure time
  • Brainstorm topics to talk about or avoid talking about
  • Give your child a list, or pictures, of people who will be at the gathering
  • Create a visual schedule of events
  • Take a break

ABA Connect recognizes the importance of social skill development and aims to make family gatherings a positive experience. Our therapists work closely with families to create plans that address specific social challenges. Through targeted interventions, such as role-playing or visual supports, we help children develop appropriate social behaviors and engage meaningfully with relatives during these special occasions and all year long.

Traveling with Ease

Making Traveling Smoother

Traveling itself can pose unique difficulties for individuals on the autism spectrum due to changes in routine and unfamiliar environments. Similar to how you help your child with sensory overload, you can implement some of the same techniques with travel, such as headphones, snacks, and favorite toys. By using visual schedules, social stories, and other ABA techniques, we can help prepare your child for the journey ahead. These tools assist in reducing anxiety and increasing predictability by providing step-by-step guidance about what to expect during the trip.

As a parent, I allow my child large amounts of screen time on road trips. A tablet, video games, or a movie playing in the car or airplane is an excellent way to pass the time. Having the technology to support children during travel is a gift to your child and the rest of the family members traveling with you!

Holiday Meals and Picky Eating

Tips on Picky Eating During Holiday Meals

Holiday meals can be filled with a wide variety of dishes, but for children with autism who struggle with selective eating or sensory sensitivities, navigating these gatherings can be challenging. At ABA Connect, we address feeding issues head-on and promote a positive relationship with food.

Our team of therapists employs evidence-based techniques to gradually expand your child’s food preferences. By introducing new foods in a non-threatening manner and utilizing reinforcement strategies, we work towards expanding their diet and ensuring they can participate fully in holiday meals.

Foods to avoid or replace with a healthier option:

  • Candy
  • Sweets and sugar
  • Artificial colors or flavors
  • Caffeine
  • Gluten (if your child is gluten-free)
  • Dairy (if your child is lactose intolerant)

Plan around holiday foods you know will affect your child’s behavior or mood as much as possible. Holiday treats can cause inflammation or constipation, something many of our kids struggle with on an ongoing basis. Eat clean, especially if your child has food sensitivities or allergies that prevent them from indulging in holiday treats, and plan to offer alternatives you know they enjoy

Sensory Tips for Classic Holiday Traditions

Enjoying Holiday Traditions with Sensory Tips

Classic holiday activities like decorating the tree, wrapping presents, and opening presents can present sensory challenges for individuals on the autism spectrum. However, with the right strategies, these traditions can become enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.

To make these activities more sensory-friendly, consider breaking them down into smaller steps and providing visual supports such as checklists or social stories. ABA Connect offers tailored approaches that account for individual differences while ensuring each child can engage in these beloved traditions.

Advocating for Your Child During the Holidays

One of the most challenging things for me as a parent around the holiday is promoting understanding of autism to my family and friends. Unless I explain it to them, they don’t know how difficult traditional holiday parties, foods, and stimuli can be for my child and me. It isn’t easy to talk about autism, but choosing to do so can make a difference in your overall experience of the season. Sometimes, tension can arise when a family member offers unsolicited advice. Have you ever noticed people who don’t understand autism are often all too willing to provide advice on how to raise your child? 

Dealing with Unwanted Advice from Family and Friends

Be Honest

First, thank your friend or family member for trying to help. Then, state you aren’t looking for parenting advice. If the person seems receptive, use it as an opportunity to educate them on autism and why your child behaves the way they do. Education is advocacy!

Use Humor

Cracking a joke, no matter how sarcastic can help ease the tension you feel when family members are not accepting of your child’s behaviors. 

Take a Break

Explain to friends and family that your child sometimes needs to take a break or move away from too much activity. Be sure to say it’s nothing anyone did; it’s just the nature of autism to sometimes need to retreat. And hey, if you need a minute, take one for yourself, too!

Let it Go

Sometimes, none of these suggestions work at the moment. If it comes to that, smile and let it go. You can move on with your plans. Or, you may need to go home. 

Develop a Secret Signal 

It’s always good to have an escape plan. You can develop a secret signal with your child or partner if you need to transition from a situation. Your secret signal can be a nod, head scratch, or code words. As soon as you see or hear it, respond immediately. 

Deck the Halls with Understanding

The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration for all families, including those affected by autism. At ABA Connect, our commitment is to empower children on the spectrum and their caregivers by providing personalized support that makes room for autism during this festive time.

By addressing sensory challenges, facilitating smooth travel experiences, tackling picky eating concerns, and offering sensory tips for classic holiday traditions, we hope you can create memorable moments that are enjoyable for your whole family. With ABA Connect by your side, you can confidently navigate the holiday season, knowing your child’s needs are understood and respected.

Remember, each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. We encourage you to share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let’s make this holiday season a truly special time of joy and celebration for children with autism.

If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow for more content on autism or ABA therapy.

If you are interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA, contact ABA Connect.

 

Please note that while I am a consultant writing on behalf of ABA Connect, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. I aim to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences as well as interviews conducted with the staff at ABA Connect.

References:

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/tips-for-autism-thanksgiving/?utm_content=buffer8f180&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer&fbclid=IwAR21vvW3BASj_sn6ZLr6d8R-Y_OgfcDWZEVyor5DWB_C6boFALBzXmoVXFs

https://www.brainbalancecenters.com/blog/holiday-party-guide-children-struggle-socially

Things to be Thankful for with Autism {+ a FREE printable}

A Parent’s Perspective: The awesome things about autism I’m most grateful for this Thanksgiving

November is a season of thanksgiving and gratitude. If we’re honest, thankfulness is not typically our first response when parenting a child with autism. It takes intentionality to see the good and the beautiful in the midst of the hard, messy disruptions autism brings into our lives.

It’s all too easy to focus on the meltdowns and frustrations, the communication barriers, the lack of friendships, and the deep grief of a life that is different from what we planned.

Autism is a unique journey that brings both challenges and joy. 

This holiday season, I want to challenge you to look for the many gifts autism brings. Sometimes, we notice these gifts in broad generalities of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), but more often, they show up in the specific lives and personalities of our loved ones living with autism. 

In this blog post, I suggest some of the incredible things to be thankful for when it comes to autism. ABA Connect also offers a FREE Printable, 7 Awesome Things About Individuals with Autism.

As parents and caregivers, we can choose to celebrate the goodness right in front of us. So, let’s dive in and discover and rediscover the beauty within the spectrum.

thankful for autism

Being thankful for the awesome parts of autism

Although each individual with autism is unique, some generalities may resonate with you. As you read, note your gratitude for some of these incredible ASD-related traits. 

Thankful for the unique perspectives of children with autism

Children with autism have a remarkable way of seeing the world. They often have a unique perspective that can offer fresh insights and a different way of approaching life. Their attention to detail and ability to focus intensely on specific interests can lead to incredible strengths in mathematics, music, art, or science. Embracing and nurturing these strengths can open up a world of opportunities. 

If your child’s interest is more niche and less applicable to everyday life, try not to be discouraged. Each individual’s particular interests contribute to making them a wonderfully unique and interesting person. That’s something to be thankful for and appreciate! 

Thankful for the unconditional love and authentic connections of children with autism 

One of the most beautiful things about autism is the capacity for unconditional love and authentic connections. Children with autism often display a genuine and pure form of love, devoid of judgment or societal expectations. Their love is unconditional, accepting others for who they truly are. 

In the same way that our children love us unconditionally, by nature of who they are, they teach us to love fully and completely with no conditions in return. They teach us the value of acceptance. This unconditional acceptance is one of the things that I’m most thankful for in my relationship with my son. Living with the reality of unconditional love for my son day in and day out has completely changed my perspective on what it means to be loved and accepted for who you are, not based on what you do. 

Thankful for the beauty of celebrating small victories

In the world of autism, small victories are a BIG deal. No matter how seemingly small, each milestone achieved is a cause for thankfulness and celebration. From learning a new word to mastering a self-help skill, these achievements remind us of our children’s progress and their determination. By recognizing and celebrating these successes, we cultivate a sense of gratitude and motivation to continue supporting their growth.

Each of our children is different. What some will accomplish, others won’t. So, instead of stretching for goals beyond what our kids can do right now. We can acknowledge and celebrate their gains, however incremental, in the moment. Sometimes, it helps when others can reflect these achievements back to us because we live them daily. 

Thankful for the ever-expanding ability for empathy and compassion

Living with autism provides a unique opportunity to expand our empathy and compassion. As we navigate the challenges and triumphs alongside our children, we develop a deep understanding of their experiences and challenges. This heightened empathy not only impacts our relationship with our child with autism but also extends to the way we interact with others. We become more compassionate and understanding towards all individuals, fostering a more inclusive and accepting community. 

Thankful for a supportive community

The autism community is a vibrant and supportive network of individuals who understand and empathize with our journey. We can connect with other parents and caregivers who share similar experiences through support groups, online forums, and local organizations. 

ABA Connect offers community, too. Whether it be through the therapists who provide care to your child or the fellow parents you meet at the clinic, you know that you are not walking this journey alone. 

Having a community that provides a safe space for sharing stories, seeking advice, and finding solace is something to be thankful for to be sure. 

Embracing the Journey

Raising a child with autism requires immense strength and resilience. Our challenges as parents and caregivers can sometimes be overwhelming, but they also allow us to grow. Through the highs and lows of this journey, we learn to adapt, persevere, and discover strengths we never knew we had. That’s something I’m also grateful for!

By embracing the positive aspects of autism and focusing on gratitude, we can navigate this journey with hope, love, and appreciation for the incredible individuals our children are becoming.

If you need a reminder to post on your fridge or bathroom mirror. Please print this handout, 7 Awesome Things About Autism, available for free!

Let’s celebrate the beauty within the spectrum and be thankful for the extraordinary gifts that autism brings into our lives!

Let us know what you are grateful for this year. If you have any questions or comments about ABA therapy, please leave them below. The team at ABA Connect is happy to help answer your questions. 

If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow for more content on autism or ABA therapy.

If you are interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA, contact ABA Connect.

Please note that while I am a consultant writing on behalf of ABA Connect, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. I aim to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences as well as interviews conducted with the staff at ABA Connect.

References

https://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/strengths-and-abilities-in-autism/

https://autismawarenesscentre.com/the-positives-of-autism/

https://www.crossrivertherapy.com/autism/strengths-and-abilities-in-autism

 

Understanding Autism-Related Shopping Meltdowns

Children do not always go along with the shopping plan easily. Autism-related meltdowns can make shopping even more difficult. Understanding autism-related shopping meltdowns can help you and your child experience less stress during a shopping trip.

Carefully observe your child’s triggers

Observe what happens before your child has difficulties. Most children are more likely to have a meltdown if they are hungry or tired. A common trigger for children with autism also includes sensory overload. The lights, sounds, smells, and crowds from a shopping trip can trigger a meltdown. Shopping at the popular grocery store on a Saturday may be more stressful for your child because it is loud and chaotic. You might observe that the smaller, less-crowded grocery store does not trigger a meltdown.

Understand the difference between meltdowns and tantrums

Both meltdowns and tantrums can include screaming, crying, falling on the floor, self-injury, and destruction. But, meltdowns and tantrums happen for different reasons. I define a meltdown as the visual display of a child becoming overwhelmed in response to a trigger. Meltdowns do not immediately stop when a child is given what they want or when they are taken out of an unpleasant situation. The intensity of emotion during a meltdown may take a minute (or more) to decrease.

Children throw tantrums to gain access to something (attention, food, toy,  etc.). Children also throw tantrums to avoid something (unpleasant activity, ending play, bedtime, mealtime, etc.). You can usually stop a tantrum by giving the child what they want (leaving the store, that special toy, attention, etc.). A child having a tantrum may also watch for your reaction to see if the tantrum is working.

Conduct an experiment

Parents can carefully observe and implement systematic changes to decrease the likelihood of a meltdown. If you know your child’s triggers, you may be able to modify the trigger. For example, if a change in your child’s drive home from school triggers a meltdown, plan to give him or her ample notice (verbally or visually) that a shopping trip will occur. If the grocery store’s fluorescent lights are too bright, consider ways to reduce the child’s exposure to the lights.

Understanding autism-related shopping meltdowns gets us one step closer to improving your errand-running experience! On my next blog, I will provide tips to prevent meltdowns.

Make A Plan to Avoid Santa Trauma

The holidays can be a difficult time for children with autism spectrum disorder. Difficulties can arise from changes in schedules, blinking lights, shiny objects, crowds, or the man with a hairy face that only comes once a year in a big red suit and loudly proclaims, “Ho Ho Ho.” Santa Claus can be intimidating for any child. As a parent of a child with autism, make a plan to avoid Santa trauma.

Santa Trauma

Santa trauma is not a “clinical” term. That is, Santa trauma is not a diagnosis. But, many of us have seen children cry, reach out for their parents in terror, or look petrified as they sit in Santa’s lap to take a picture. We have also seen stressed adults escorting children to sit in Santa’s lap despite the child’s apparent fear.

I define Santa trauma as significant emotional or behavioral reactions that happen when children (or adults) encounter Santa Claus. Santa trauma can happen while waiting in a line to sit in Santa’s lap, walking by Santa at the mall, seeing Santa on TV, or actually being forced to sit in Santa’s lap to take a picture. You or your child can experience Santa trauma. You may no longer have your child sit in Santa’s lap because the last time you tried it, your child had a meltdown and you are traumatized as a result. On the other hand, you may have wanted your child to have a big smile in a picture with Santa and he showed no reaction. Consider how to make a plan to avoid Santa trauma.

Santa Trauma From The Sensory or Social Experience

A child with autism spectrum disorder may have an intense response to Santa or he may look away because he has no social interest in Santa. Santa Claus provides a unique sensory and social experience because he only comes around once a year. Santa trauma can be triggered by Santa’s novelty or sensory overload from Santa’s big red textured suit, white furry beard, his big black boots and belt buckle, or his hearty “Ho Ho Ho.”

Make A Plan To Avoid Santa Trauma

You may need to make a carefully thought out plan to avoid Santa trauma. You know your child best. Think about how you can avoid or address a potential meltdown from a Santa encounter. Here are some tips if you do plan to introduce your child to Santa in person.

  • First, introduce your child to Santa in pictures, books, cartoons, stuffed animals, videos, or from a distance.
  • Talk about Santa in a way that is consistent with your family’s values.
  • Consider a sensory-friendly version of Santa through events for children with special needs.
  • Praise your child for any Santa approach such as looking at, going near, saying or approximating the word “Santa.”
  • Have a family member dress up as Santa for a controlled introduction in a familiar environment.
  • If you go to an event to take a picture, check your child’s reaction to Santa from a distance and the wait time before standing in line.
  • Make sure your child is well-rested and fed before the initial encounter with Santa in public. Have their favorite items readily available.
  • Do not force your child to sit in Santa’s lap if he is afraid or is on the verge of a meltdown.
  • Consider modeling a high-five or a fist bump if sitting in Santa’s lap is too frightening.
  • Be ready to leave the event if your child is upset by Santa, then do something you know calms your child.
  • Don’t feel pressured to visit or introduce Santa if you feel your child is not ready.

Make a plan to avoid Santa trauma. It does not have to happen to you or your child during this holiday season.