Are you curious about the common habits of autism and how they show up in your kids? We’re here to help you understand and appreciate your child’s unique thinking and learning differences. So, let’s explore the world of autism together and learn how to support and celebrate your child’s mind.
Table of Contents
The Autism Spectrum: A World of Wonderful Differences
Before we start, it’s important to know that autism is a spectrum disorder. This means that kids with autism are all different, and their habits can vary greatly. But there are some common habits of autism that many superstar kids share. We’ve grouped them into three main areas:
- Social Communication
- Repetitive Behaviors
- Sensory Sensitivities
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Social Communication: More Than Just Words
Regarding social communication, kids with autism might face challenges in different ways. Here are some common habits you might see:
- Trouble making eye contact
- Having a hard time understanding body language
- Liking to play alone or finding it hard to make friends
- Taking things very literally and not understanding jokes or sayings
Remember, your child’s social communication skills can improve with help and practice. Encourage them to join in social situations and offer guidance when they need it.
But how can you help your child improve their social communication skills? Here are some tips:
- Use visual aids, like social stories or comic strip conversations, to help explain social situations.
- Practice role-playing to help your child understand different perspectives.
- Be patient and give your child time to process information and respond.
Repetitive Behaviors: A Cozy Routine
Repetitive behaviors are another common habit of autism. These can include:
- Doing the same movements over and over (like hand flapping, rocking, or spinning)
- Being very interested in certain topics
- Needing routines and getting upset when they change
- Saying the exact words or phrases again and again (called echolalia)
Even though these behaviors might seem strange, they often help kids with autism feel safe and calm. Support their interests and routines and gently introduce new things to help them learn to handle change.
Here are a few ideas to help your child manage repetitive behaviors:
- Create a visual schedule to help your child understand and follow routines.
- Use social stories to explain changes in routines or new experiences.
- Encourage your child to explore new interests while supporting their passions.
Sensory Sensitivities: A World Full of Strong Feelings
Sensory sensitivities are common in kids with autism. They might feel things more or less strongly than other people, like:
- Sound: Loud noises or certain sounds can be too much or even hurt.
- Touch: Some textures or feelings of touch might feel bad or annoying.
- Sight: Bright lights or busy places can be too much to handle.
- Taste and smell: Kids with autism might really like or dislike certain foods or smells.
Knowing your child’s sensory sensitivities can help you make things more comfortable for them and be ready for challenges.
To help your child manage sensory sensitivities, consider these tips:
- Create a calm and organized environment at home.
- Use noise-canceling headphones or earplugs for loud situations.
- Offer a variety of sensory experiences to help your child learn about their preferences and dislikes.
Read More: What is a Sensory Cocoon and How Does it Help
Tips for Helping Your Superstar Kids
Now that you know some common habits of autism, let’s talk about ways to help your child grow and learn.
Build Good Communication
Good communication with your child is essential. Help them share their thoughts and feelings, and be patient when they have trouble finding the right words. Let them know you understand and are there to help.
To improve communication with your child, try these strategies:
- Use simple and clear language.
- Give your child time to process information and respond.
- Encourage your child to use visual aids, like pictures or gestures, to help express themselves.
Make a Structured Home
A structured home can help kids with autism feel safer and in control. Set up routines, use visual schedules, and be clear about what you expect. This can help lower stress and make daily life easier.
Here’s how you can create a structured environment for your child:
- Establish consistent daily activities like meals, homework, and bedtime routines.
- Use visual schedules or charts to help your child understand and follow routines.
- Be clear and consistent with rules and expectations.
Help Them Make Friends
Social skills can get better with practice. Help your child join social activities like playdates, clubs, or community events. Offer help and support when needed, and be proud of their successes.
To support your child’s social growth, consider these ideas:
- Encourage your child to join clubs or activities that interest them.
- Set up playdates with peers who share similar interests.
- Teach your child social skills through role-playing and practice.
Ask for Professional Help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from therapists, teachers, or support groups. They can give you great advice and resources to help you understand and support your kid’s needs.
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As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.
Enjoy the Journey: Celebrate Your Child’s Uniqueness
Learning about the common habits of autism is just the start of your adventure as a parent. Love their uniqueness, and remember that their differences make them unique. You can help your child do their best and reach their full potential by giving support, encouragement, and understanding.
So, parents, let’s cheer for the amazing minds of our kids and the bright, colorful world they bring to our lives. Together, we can make a more kind and understanding world for everyone.
FAQs About Autism Habits
What are autism habits?
Autism habits refer to repetitive behaviors or routines that individuals with autism often engage in as a way to self-regulate and find comfort.
How do visual schedules help with autism habits?
Visual schedules provide a visual representation of daily routines, helping individuals with autism understand and anticipate what will happen next, reducing anxiety and supporting smoother transitions.
Can emotional regulation apps be beneficial for managing autism habits?
Yes, emotional regulation apps can help individuals with autism identify and manage their emotions, providing tools and strategies to cope with challenging situations and reduce the impact of disruptive habits.
How can rewards be used to address autism habits?
Rewards can be used as positive reinforcement to encourage alternative behaviors, helping individuals with autism develop new habits that are more adaptive and socially appropriate.
Are there specific strategies to help parents address autism habits at home?
Yes, strategies like implementing consistent routines, providing sensory-friendly environments, and using visual supports can help parents create a structured and supportive home environment that addresses and manages autism habits effectively.
This post was originally published on 04/16/23. It was updated on 06/12/23.
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