Routines...not wanting flexibility
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| Thu, 10-27-2005 - 1:02pm |
I've always tried to incorporate some flexibility in Nathan's life. But he's been very adamant about keeping things the same. Not wanting to change anything!! He usually does pretty well, always having to make some kind of comment, but then going along with the change. I know that this year, there have been alot of changes. Moving to a new house, new routine, being at school all day...I know that there has been adjustments this year.
School still seems to be going well. But he is more comfortable this year, and starting to tell the teachers what to do and what not to do. He really seems to be fighting any type of changes in his life, moreso than usual.
I feel as though he's already going thru his rebellion stage....but at 6???? Is this common?
Michelle

Lots of times ASD kids will cling to thier routine particularly when under stressful situations. He just went through a move and even though he is doing well in school, it is full days for the first time. He is ordering his little world so he knows what to expect and to keep everything safe.
I wouldn't sweat it. After a while when the anxiety decreases and he is used to this new routine and such, the need for everything to be exactly the same will fade.
Things like this with my kids come and go. Sometimes certain autism symptoms come out alot more due to stress we don't even realize is there. They don't show or communicate stress to us very effectively so we have to be investigators. Right now Cait is extremely tactile defensive as well as becoming a much more picky eater. Foods that she enjoyed, she will not touch and her range is very limited. It is sensory, rigidity and all caused from stress. when the stress fades so will this again.
I see no reason in increasing stress by taking away these safe things for them unless they interfere with life and the family. If his routines make him consistently late for school or are keeping him up at night, then you may want to address them. But if they are just a nuisance, then I wouldn't make a big deal.
Renee
Changes in routines can be very difficult for children on the spectrum.