Sensory processing difficulties commonly seen in autistic kids can include decreased pain recognition or an inability to use visual input information to assist with standing up-right. Similar to how communication and social impairments vary from mild to severe, autistic children process sensory information differently and over a range of severities.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is the gold-standard treatment for autistic individuals. ABA uses scientifically derived principles to understand how environmental factors influence behavior, with the primary goal of promoting socially appropriate behaviors and reducing problem behaviors such as aggression, self-injurious behavior, elopement and/or disruptive behavior.
Elopement is when a child leaves a safe area without permission and it can lead to dangerous accidents and outcomes. Approximately 50% of autistic children have tried to elope. Understanding why autistic children elope and implementing strategies to prevent it are crucial steps in ensuring their safety.
Sensory integration therapy works using the assumption that by doing tasks that require a lot of sensory processing, sensory systems and the brain will form a stronger connection. Having a stronger sensory system – brain connection will help children learn how to respond to different types of sensory stimulation in less extreme ways.
There are unique challenges that come with raising and discipline autistic children. Discipline is a key elements in ensuring a child’s well-being and safety. When implemented correctly, discipline can provide structure, security and sense of predictability for autistic children. However, it is crucial to find the right balance, as extra discipline can be counterproductive.