Autism support in Fayetteville often focuses on choosing fun social activities for adults with autism, including storytelling, gymnastics, sports, and card games. Many individuals with autism find that engaging in social activities helps with their communication skills and ability to work within a group.
Science fiction and fantasy are often of great interest to autistic people. Depending on their interest levels and abilities, people on the spectrum may learn every detail of a particular "universe," write their own stories, watch and rewatch movies, read comics, attend conventions, or even make their own costumes.
Different sensory things will feel wonderful for some autistic's and painful for others. It may be that certain lights, sounds, textures, clothing, sights, smells etc brings a lot of comfort. Weighted blankets are also wonderful for helping to ground you and feel safe. Certain food can be really comforting.
Strategies to consider include distraction, diversion, helping the person use calming strategies such as fiddle toys or listening to music, removing any potential triggers, and staying calm yourself.
We know that many people on the autism spectrum prefer relatively snug-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. The snug clothing may help provide a sense of where the body is in space – sometimes called the sense of proprioception.
A child with autism can be unique and unlike any other child we know. Having a child on the autism spectrum gives to us the opportunity to obtain the gifts of understanding and patience.
Children with autism feel much more comfortable and connected when they have a set routine with clear structures, and minimal alterations from their predicted schedule.
Red should never be used in the home as children with ASD perceive the color as florescent. Yellows likewise are very stimulating and are best to avoid. Greens, blues, pinks, soft oranges and neutrals can be very comforting. Keeping the colors muted, these tones can quiet the mind and create calm.
When it comes to calming colours for autism, muted tones of greens and blues are a great choice. They have much shorter wavelengths than brighter colours, meaning much less stimulation in the brain occurs.
On world autism awareness day, April 2nd, you may see plenty of blue being shown off to support autism awareness. The color blue's association to autism originated with the autism advocacy association known as Autism Speaks. Their “Light it Up Blue” campaign calls for people to wear blue to promote autism awareness.
During a meltdown, we found that most autistics described feeling overwhelmed by information, senses, and social and emotional stress. They often felt extreme emotions, such as anger, sadness, and fear, and had trouble with thinking and memory during the meltdown.
What happens when an autistic person is overstimulated?
Understanding Autistic Overstimulation
This can manifest in a variety of ways, including physical discomfort, anxiety, irritability, or even physical pain. Some common signs of autistic overstimulation include: Covering ears or eyes. Rocking back and forth or other repetitive behaviors.
