Building routines-Autism

Building routines- Autism

Creating and maintaining routines can be crucial for children with autism as they provide structure, predictability, and a sense of security in their daily lives. Routines can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and promote independence.

Why Routines Matter for Autistic Children

Children with autism often need and enjoy repetition and consistency. Routines can be a powerful tool for supporting children with autism. Some key benefits of routines for autistic children include:

Stress relief and reduced anxiety

Improved focus and concentration

Enhanced time management skills

Increased independence and confidence

Better self-regulation

Tips for Creating Effective Routines

Include your child(ren): It is important for children to join in with planning their routine. Not only does this help them develop their planning skills but helps them follow it and know what is coming.

Be consistent: Many children prefer to maintain the same schedule every day. Use your routines consistently to help your child understand them.

Use visual aids: Many children with autism are visual learners. Implement visual schedules or charts to help them understand what comes next. Try using an “oops” card to support needing to change the routine.

Use clear steps: Make it clear what it needed at each step. Try “go to sleep” instead of “bedtime”. Make sure you include all steps, including transport or wait times.

Keep it age and understanding appropriate: Avoid overwhelming your child with complex routines. Start with basic, easy-to-follow steps that you can build on as they get the hang of it.

Incorporate preferred activities: Include activities your child enjoys to make the routine more appealing and engaging. Or have a preferred activity at the end as a goal to get to.

Allow for flexibility: While consistency is important, be prepared to make small adjustments as needed. Prepare your child as much as possible and use visual aids to support the change. E.g. if your routine has “go for a walk” in it, have a wet weather alternative routine you can swap to.

Try specific routines: If your child has a doctors appointment you can help prepare them with a routine they can refer to ,to ease their minds. E.g. sit in waiting room, go into doctors office, talk to doctor, doctor listen to my heart, leave the doctors, go to shops.

Implementing and Maintaining Routines

Introduce changes gradually: Start with one routine at a time and slowly add more as your child adjusts.

Use positive reinforcement: Praise your child for following the routine. Interact with them whilst they follow their routines, show them that it isn’t something they have to do alone.

Be patient: It may take time for your child to adapt to new routines. Consistency and persistence are key

Review and adjust: Regularly assess the effectiveness of your routines and make changes as needed.

By implementing well-structured routines, you can help your child with autism navigate daily life more easily, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.