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Life Changes and Autism
Different Address, Same Challenges By Sue Poremba
"We also met with the teacher to find a buddy for Justin," Richards says. "The teacher recommended a well-behaved child in the class, and we invited him and his parents to lunch. We explained that Justin has autism, and we hoped he would be willing to help Justin in the classroom. Now they are the best of friends."
Vacations can also be a stressful time for familieswith autistic children. Like moving or entering a new classroom, a vacation can be anticipated and reviewed with Social Stories and other visuals. However, traveling lends itself to unplanned events, as well as crowds of people and added stimuli and triggers.
Wiseman reiterates that the most important aspect is knowing your child and what she can and cannot handle. "Is this a child who can't eat out, needs certain things around him or can't tolerate too much stimulation?" Wiseman says. "Can they only go by car or could they handle air travel?"
Also, when planning the vacation, find out what accommodations the destination can provide. For example, if you think your child can handle the stimulation of an amusement park but not waiting in line, contact the park's office to see if special provisions can be made.
While traveling, carry a backpack filled with items that provide comfort and familiarity for the child. Some parents provide photo albums that hold pictures of every aspect of the trip. And don't forget to provide similar information for the return home.
After Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana in August 2005, families with autistic children found themselves being kicked out of shelters because the children's behavior disturbed other hurricane victims. Some families stayed in their homes, believing it would be easier to ride out the storm in a familiar surrounding rather than deal with the chaos at the shelters.