Children on the autism spectrum are keenly aware of routine. Because this routine is more than following a schedule, things like taking down the decorations cause upset.
Routine to a child on the autism spectrum involves when things happen – such as when bedtime occurs. Their routine can involve a sequence of events. (First, have a bedtime snack. Second, read a book. Third brush teeth. Then get into bed. If the events to no happen in a particular order, it can cause upset. The predictability of the situation has been lost.
Routines can be who does something. For example, Mom always washes my hair, or Dad always drives me to school.
Routines are deeply embedded in the Christmas traditions of a family as well. A child on the autism spectrum may be very aware of where the decorations go, and who gets to put each one up. If the front porch always has red bows across the railing, it will most likely be important to that child as well.
Children on the autism spectrum may be reluctant to separate from the decorations at the end of the season. Taking down the red bows from the front porch may be very upsetting.
Many parents of children with special needs (not only children on the autism spectrum) find that using a calendar or talking with the child ahead of time is helpful. Another tip is to let the child be involved in as much of the “take down” as possible, thus giving him more control over the situation.
What has worked well for your family? Do you have questions for other families? Join us in a discussion of holiday routines and children with special needs.
