Ever watched a toddler navigate a water park for the first time? The thrill in their eyes, the anticipation, the pure joy of splashing around? Now, imagine if that same water park became their everyday routine. This would be a dream come true for some kids, but for others, it could be a nightmare. This is how ADHD and autism routines can differ. Just as each child reacts uniquely to a water park, so do they respond differently to routines based on their neurodivergence. Routines can be a lifeline for those with autism, offering a sense of calm and predictability in a world that often feels chaotic. On the flip side, the ADHD brain craves novelty and stimulation and tends to rebel against structure. So, in this post, we’ll explore these differences in depth, providing actionable strategies for parents to support their children’s unique needs.
Table of Contents
Understanding the ADHD Brain
When I think about the ADHD brain, I often liken it to a high-speed race car. It’s fast, powerful, and constantly seeking the next thrill. For kids with ADHD, the routine can feel like a speed bump on their racetrack—jarring and unwelcome. The ADHD brain thrives on novelty and stimulation. This is not to say that routines are entirely off the table for these kids. Rather, the approach to routines needs to be different.
For instance, flexible routines work better instead of rigid schedules. You could have a list of tasks needed, but the order can vary based on the child’s interest that day. Above all, incorporating elements of fun and novelty into everyday tasks can make a world of difference. So, if your child loves superheroes, why not turn brushing teeth into a ‘fight against cavity villains’?
Autism and the Need for Predictability
On the other hand, for kids with autism, routines are like a comforting blanket. The world can often feel overwhelming and unpredictable to them. Here, routines offer a sense of control and predictability. They help to make sense of the world and can significantly reduce anxiety.
Unlike the ADHD brain, the autistic brain prefers consistency over novelty. A sudden change in routine can be distressing. So, it’s crucial to prepare your child for any changes well in advance. For example, if there’s a school holiday coming up, start talking about it a week before. Use visual aids like calendars or charts to help them understand the change.
Strategies for Managing Routines
Read more: Visual Schedules for Students with Autism
While managing ADHD and autism routines can seem like walking a tightrope, some strategies can help. Firstly, it’s important to remember that every child is unique. What works for one might not work for another. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand your child’s specific needs and preferences.
For kids with ADHD, routines should be flexible and fun. Use visual aids, timers, and rewards to make tasks more engaging. Meanwhile, for kids with autism, provide clear and consistent routines. Use visual schedules and prepare them for changes in advance.
The Routine Rundown: ADHD vs. Autism
Understanding the main differences between ADHD and autism is important for building helpful routines for kids with thinking and learning differences. To make it easier, we’ve created a table comparing the two routines:
| ADHD Routines | Autism Routines |
|---|---|
| Focus on time management | Focus on predictability and consistency |
| Encourage flexibility | Emphasize structure |
| Break tasks into smaller steps | Use visual schedules |
| Use rewards and consequences | Minimize sensory overload |
| Implement physical activity breaks | Offer choices within the routine |
When Routines Don’t Work
However, there will be times when routines don’t work. And that’s okay. It’s important to remember that we’re dealing with kids, not robots. There will be days when they’re tired, cranky, or not in the mood. It’s okay to let go of the routine on such days for a while. After all, the goal is to make life easier for them, not more stressful.
Most importantly, remember to be patient. Change takes time. It’s okay if your child takes longer to adapt to a routine. Keep trying different strategies until you find what works best for them. And always remember, you’re doing a great job!
Goally | Apps To Structure Your Kiddo’s Routine
Does your child struggle with transitions or staying on task? Goally’s visual schedule app breaks down large tasks into small, achievable steps. It helps kids complete their tasks independently!
Create custom routines with your own videos & pictures for every step. The steps come in small, bite-sized pieces to help your child learn the little fundamentals (like putting the toothpaste on their toothbrush!) to achieve bigger goals. And that’s just the beginning.
In the grand scheme of things, understanding and managing ADHD and autism routines is like learning a new dance. It takes time, patience, and a lot of practice. Remember, it’s not about creating a perfect routine but finding what works best for your child. For your child with ADHD, infuse flexibility and fun into their routines. For your child with autism, provide consistency and predictability. And on days when the routine falls apart, remember that it’s okay. Tomorrow is another day to try again. After all, the goal is to create a supportive environment where your child can thrive. So, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and keep dancing. You’ve got this!
FAQs About How ADHD and Autism Differ In Routines
What is the difference between ADHD and Autism routines? ADHD routines focus on consistency, structure, and clear expectations, while Autism routines can include visual aids and sensory supports to manage sensory overload and enhance communication.
How can visual schedules help children with Autism? Visual schedules can help children with Autism understand and predict daily activities, providing a sense of order and reducing anxiety associated with unpredictability.
How can rewards systems benefit children with ADHD? Rewards systems can motivate children with ADHD to stay on task and demonstrate desired behaviors by providing immediate, positive feedback.
What are emotional regulation apps? Emotional regulation apps are digital tools designed to help children understand, express, and manage their emotions effectively, supporting their overall emotional well-being.
How do routines impact children with ADHD and Autism? Routines provide structure and predictability, which can reduce anxiety and improve behavior in children with ADHD and Autism, making them crucial for their emotional and cognitive development.
This post was originally published on 04/16/2023. It was updated on 02/09/2024.
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
