Home Living Tips for Parents of Children With Autism: Create a Good Environment
If your child has been recently diagnosed with autism, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Don't worry - you are not alone! There is a lot of information out there about how to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) thrive. In this blog post, we will discuss some home living tips for parents of children with ASD. Creating a good environment is essential for success, and we will provide you with some helpful tips to get started. We will also discuss the importance of routines and consistency, as well as provide some tips on how to make your home a safe, comfortable space. So, whether you are a parent of a newly-diagnosed child, or have been living with ASD for some time now, this blog post should prove to be
1) Learn About Facial Smearing and Body Swaying
Many children on the autism spectrum engage in behaviors such as facial smearing and body swaying. This can be a source of distress for parents, but it is important to remember that these behaviors are often motivated by feelings of discomfort or confusion. So, if you keep asking yourself “ what is smearing feces a sign of? ” the answer is likely an attempt to self-soothe and gain some control over a situation that is difficult for them to comprehend. If your child engages in either of these activities, it is important to learn about them and how to respond. For example, if they are smearing feces, you should provide a safe, clean space for them to do this without fear of punishment or humiliation. Or, if they are body swaying, you can provide a safe space where they can engage in this behavior without feeling overwhelmed or judged. According to a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, providing a safe space and responding in a supportive manner can be beneficial.
2) Establish Routines and Structure
Creating routines and structure is important for many children on the autism spectrum. This helps to create predictability, which can decrease anxiety levels. It also gives them a sense of control over their environment. When creating routines, try to stick to the same schedule each day and make sure that tasks are completed in the same order. Additionally, use visual aids such as calendars and clocks to help your child understand when transitions will take place.
3) Make Sure Your Home Is Safe & Comfortable
Creating a safe and comfortable home environment is essential for any parent of a child with ASD. This means taking measures to ensure that the house is free from all potential hazards, such as locks on doors and windows, checking for sharp edges or protruding objects, and ensuring any chemicals are stored in a secure place. In addition to being physically safe, it is also important to ensure your home is comfortable for your child. This means making sure that the temperature is at an appropriate level, there is adequate lighting, and noise levels are kept low, as well as providing calming music or white noise in some areas of the house.
Create a Cool-Down Room
Having a designated “cool-down” room can be beneficial for managing challenging behaviors. This should be a space that is comfortable and free from distractions, such as toys or electronics. This will give your child a place to go when feeling overwhelmed, where they know they won't be judged or punished. Consider adding calming activities such as a bean bag chair, calming music or white noise, and sensory objects such as weighted blankets. So, having a cool-down room can provide your child with a safe place to go when their emotions become overwhelming.
4) Seek Professional Help When Needed
It is important to remember that parenting a child with ASD can be challenging, and seeking professional help when needed is essential. A qualified therapist or counselor can provide you with strategies to help your child manage their behaviors and cope with daily life. They may also suggest additional resources such as support groups or respite care. Whatever path you choose, remember that you are not alone - there are many families out there going through the same thing!
5) Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective strategies for encouraging desired behaviors in children. This can include verbal praise, gestures such as a thumbs up or high five, or tangible rewards like stickers or points. Be sure to provide positive reinforcement immediately after your child performs the desired behavior, and be consistent with it. It is also important to remember that what works for one child may not work for another - so experiment and find out what motivates your child!
6) Consider Lighting & Texture
Many children on the autism spectrum are hypersensitive to lighting and textures. To help decrease anxiety levels in your home, it is important to consider these factors when decorating or rearranging spaces. For example, keeping lighting soft and avoiding bright colors will help to create a calming atmosphere.
7) Take Time For Yourself
Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your child. It is easy to become overwhelmed and exhausted, so it is essential to make time for self-care. This could include activities such as yoga, reading, or talking to a friend. Scheduling regular doctor’s appointments and getting enough sleep are also important. Taking time for yourself will help to keep you centered and able to provide the best care possible for your child.
8) Stay Informed
Keeping up to date on new research and treatments for autism is important. Reading books, attending conferences, and talking with other parents and healthcare professionals are all excellent ways to stay informed. This will help you better understand your child’s needs and provide the best possible care.
By implementing these home living tips for parents of children with ASD, you can create an environment that is safe, comfortable, and supportive for your child’s growth and development. With patience and understanding, it is entirely possible to build a loving home environment for your child on the autism spectrum. Good luck!
