{"id":1171,"date":"2022-09-14T22:41:05","date_gmt":"2022-09-15T03:41:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myworldaba.com\/?p=1171"},"modified":"2023-04-25T12:28:21","modified_gmt":"2023-04-25T17:28:21","slug":"tips-for-helping-your-autistic-child-through-change-in-routine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myworldaba.com\/2022\/09\/14\/tips-for-helping-your-autistic-child-through-change-in-routine\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips for Helping Your Autistic Child Through Change in Routine"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

For autistic children, a sudden change can be incredibly stressful. Whether the change is something small, like visiting a new doctor, or something large, like staying overnight somewhere, the sudden disruption of routine can cause the child anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

My World ABA<\/a> explains some tips for helping your child deal with a change in routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Routines Are Important<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For autistic children, routines and rituals are extremely important. Children in general like consistency and routines because they like to know what to expect. It makes them comfortable to know what is coming next, and they can prepare themselves for it. This is why children will often watch the same show over and over again, even if they have seen it so many times they have memorized it. It is familiar and comfortable, and they understand it. Routines also offer a sense of security and safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is usually amplified in children with autism because they are sensitive to things like unfamiliar sounds, people, smells, and places. Having a daily routine helps children know what is coming next, makes them more independent, and is good for their confidence and mental health. Disrupting that routine with something new creates uncertainty, anxiety, and fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Dealing With Changes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If something is coming that you know will cause a disruption in your child\u2019s routine, the best thing you can do is plan ahead. Don\u2019t wait until the day of to announce a new doctor’s appointment, start discussing it weeks before so your child has time to mentally prepare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some things you can do include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n