Running Errands with Your Autistic Child

Since my life revolves around my seven children and their myriad of appointments, I picked up a few tricks that make my life easier. For those of you that are new to the world of PDD-Nos or your child was recently diagnosed with autism, this might be of some help.

When I go to run errands, sit in waiting rooms for doctor's appointments (which is often) or just take the children out for a recreational activity, I bring along my bag of tricks. Through many tantrums, trials, errors, and complete meltdowns I have developed a bag of tricks so that we are always equipped to deal with my Little One (4 years old) and the complications of his autism (PDD-Nos). Keep in mind that you know your child and can determine what will work and what won't. These are just suggestions that have helped me and my situation. I carry a black Eddie Bauer knapsack style diaper bag.    It works for me because it's roomy, durable and leaves my hands free.   You can use whichever style you like. 

Identifying the Triggers and Determining your Responses:
1. It is important that you know what triggers a meltdown in your child or at least identify the signs that a meltdown is about to occur.
2. Take mental notes of the time of the day, the atmosphere of the place your at, the lighting, the noise level and the smells. Take in all the stimuli to all the senses.
3. What calms your child down? Every child has a different method of centering themselves. How can you help them calm down? Is there a technique the therapists use to diffuse them?
4. Can you implement any of the techniques used by the therapists to help your child regain control?
5. As difficult as it may be to not feed into the public stares and gasps, keep yourself as calm as possible. Let people say what they want and focus on the uncomfortable situation your child is in.