One of the greatestreasons for stress and concern, for parents
who have a child with autism, is GOING OUT!!!! When you are at home
with yourchild, you can feel safe and more able to cope with
unpredictable behaviour, but staying indoors forever is neither
practical nor healthy.
So what could going out bring? Meltdownsdueto overstimulation,
tantrums when not able to do something, judgements and stares from
people you dont know and advice and comments from complete
strangers, who think they know what is best for your child. All
these things, you are going to have to dealwith, hopefully with a
smile and a confident step.
I remember years ago, trying to get Emily out of Pittville Park,
Cheltenham at the end of a play session.With her teeth clamped onto
my forearm, I walked with a spring in my step and a smile, for all
the passing families, who looked on in horror. One woman finally
walked straight up to me, so I had to stop and said shes worse than
an animal I wouldnt bring her again. I have to say, it took my
breath away and left me speechless, as she strutted off with her
dog.
So, now the warmer weather looks like it is finally here, lets
take steps to get our beautiful children out into the fresh
air.
STEPS TO GOING OUTSIDE
Playing in the house:
Start small and easy. Play in the house withyourchild and just
see what they like to do, what relaxes them and how long they can
play without either tuning out or having a meltdown.
Playing in the garden:
Using what you have learnt about your child, in the house, start
to play with them in the garden. For Emily, balls, bubblesand water
were always a winner.
Playing at the park when empty:
The next step is taking your child to the park when it
isrelativelyempty. Mealtimes are a good time to do this. Take your
childs favourite toy with them, so they can play with it and not
feel pressured to go on the equipment.
Playing at the park when busy:
Taking something to the park your child loves, when it is busy,
is a good way to focus your child on something else, rather than
lots of people. It might be as simple as a ball or bubbles, or they
might want to take their scooter or the dog!
Getting your child out of the park?
This can be a tricky one, so I would always give your child a 10
minute/5 minute/2 minute/1 minute countdown on when you will be
heading home. A good idea is to think of something really
motivating for your childto do when you get home, so that they can
look forward to it.
So, gather your courage, your childs favourite things and head
off out! Lets show the world, one family at a time, that having a
child with autism is an adventure, not a life sentence.
The Autism Nannywww.theautismnanny.co.uk
