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As a parent or guardian of a child with autism, it's crucial to understand and address the sensory issues that affect them. Children with autism often face difficulties processing and organizing sensory information. As a result, they become extremely sensitive or under-sensitive to things such as certain sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and textures. To help you navigate this issue better, we have compiled a list of tips and tricks that might help you deal with sensory issues for your child on the spectrum.
One of the first things you can do for your child with sensory issues is to invest in noise-canceling headphones. These headphones help filter out noise and sounds that might trigger an overwhelming sensory experience for the child. While there are many brands out there, Bose is one of the best, but it is quite expensive. Alternatively, you can research other affordable brands that work just as well.
Another helpful approach is to keep sensory items on hand in a designated bin that you can easily carry around. Fill up the bin with things that your child finds soothing, such as a weighted blanket, different aromatherapy scents that aren't irritating, and calming toys, such as calm strips. Additionally, include some easy-reusable sensory adhesives with different colors and patterns that you can stick on various surfaces without damaging them.
Ensure you have a timer handy that you can use to let your child know when a particular activity is about to start or end. Timers are particularly useful for activities that need a fixed duration, such as bedtime, homework time, or playtime. Prompting your child beforehand helps them prepare mentally and adjust their sensory needs accordingly.
Weighted blankets have been shown to be quite helpful for sensory-seeking children. These blankets simulate deep pressure therapy, which provides a soothing, calming, and relaxing effect on the body. The blankets can be heavy or light, depending on the child's sensory needs, and can be used in various settings, such as during sleep or when seated on a couch or chair.
When you're on a road trip, ensure you pack a bin with your child's favorite toys and snacks. To make the journey even more enjoyable, create a personalized playlist of tracks that your child loves. Also, have their favorite blanket or pillow on hand just in case they need it. By bringing familiar items, you'll make it easier for your child to adapt to the new environment and reduce sensory overload.
Helping a child on the autism spectrum deal with sensory issues can be overwhelming, but it is essential to support your child and provide them with comfort in any way possible. By utilizing the tips and tricks outlined above, you can make your child's sensory experience more manageable, reduce their stress and anxiety levels and ensure they live a comfortable life. Remember, always take your child's sensory needs seriously and keep experimenting to find what works best for them. With this approach, you'll discover that every day with your kid becomes a sensory adventure.
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