How can I help my child with transitions, both in their daily routine and during major life changes?
TOP TIPS FOR PLANNING SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS
As a parent of an autistic child, you know that transitions can be difficult for your child to navigate. Whether it's a change in their daily routine or a major life change, such as moving to a new home or starting a new school, transitions can be overwhelming and stressful. However, there are several strategies you can use to help your child with transitions and make the process smoother and less stressful for both of you.
Establish a routine
One of the most effective ways to help your child with transitions is to establish a consistent daily routine. This can help your child feel more comfortable and secure, as they know what to expect each day. Try to stick to the same schedule as much as possible, including regular meal times, bedtimes, and activities. You can use visual aids such as a daily schedule or calendar to help your child understand and anticipate each day's events.
Visual timetables are a great tool that can be used at school and at home.
2. Use social stories
Social stories are short, simple stories that can help your child understand and prepare for new situations or changes. You can create social stories yourself or find them online. The stories should be tailored to your child's specific needs and interests and should explain what will happen during the transition and how they can cope with any challenges that may arise.
When a key transition is coming up, the social story can be ready daily - or even several times a day.
3. Practice coping strategies
It's important to teach your child coping strategies that they can use when they're feeling anxious or overwhelmed. This might include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or sensory activities such as listening to calming music or using a weighted blanket. Encourage your child to practice these strategies regularly, so they become second nature when they're needed most.
Keeping a reminder or a visual representation of these strategies on a keyring can be helpful.
4. Involve your child in the transition process
Whenever possible, involve your child in the transition process. This might mean taking them to visit their new school or home before the move, or letting them help pack their belongings. By involving your child in the process, you can help them feel more in control and reduce their anxiety about the change.
Some children and young people like creating a book or a document that contains the key facts about the new setting or the event, including a map, photographs, key people, schedule of events etc.
5. Seek support
Transitions can be stressful for parents as well as children, so it's important to seek support when you need it. This might include talking to other parents of autistic children, joining a support group, or seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.
Parents often experience guilt about taking care of their own needs or even taking time to rest and replenish, however taking care of your own needs allows you to better support others in your family.
6. Be patient
Finally, remember that transitions take time and patience. Your child may need extra support and time to adjust to the change, and that's okay. Try to be patient and understanding, and celebrate each small victory along the way.
Transitions can be challenging for autistic children and their parents, but with the right strategies and support, they can be managed successfully. By establishing a routine, using social stories, practising coping strategies, involving your child in the transition process, seeking support, and being patient, you can help your child navigate transitions with confidence and ease. Remember to celebrate the small victories along the way, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.