The Autism Family Toolbox can provide help across 40 or more
topics. Here are some interventions
covering Generalized Anxiety which is common in child behavior and autism.
Maintain a balance of sensory activities (often referred to
as a Sensory Diet) - Because children with Autism often have sensory issues,
stress can be triggered by an environment that is either over or under
stimulating to a child’s senses. A customized and balanced sensory diet can
ward off meltdowns triggered by sensory sensitivities. Work with your child’s
occupational therapist to design a diet that will meet the specific needs of
your child’s sensory nervous system and help keep it under control.
Help your child anticipate upcoming transitions whenever
possible. If the daily schedule is going to shift in the foreseeable future
it’s a good idea for parents to begin addressing it days before. Discuss the
change with your child using communication tools that work best, such as
pictures and schedules, written lists or social stories. Increase your chances
of success by allowing adequate time for your child to process the information
– this will lead to better acceptance and ability to cope with the transition.
Avoid making quick judgments of the situation. It’s best not
to do this because it can cause your child to feel foolish and to hide their
feelings from you in the future. Listen to what they are saying and look at it
from within their world then base your response around that viewpoint.
When your child shares their feelings with you, don’t
dismiss them. Instead, validate your child’s feelings by letting them know that
it’s okay to feel that way and that you’re always there for them. While you may
think your child is over-reacting about something, their feelings are very real
to them. Don’t ever dismiss the fact that they experience the world we live in
a completely different way.
