Many children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) experience the world through heightened or unique sensory processing, which can make everyday environments feel overwhelming or inspiring. Sensory sensitivities are a hallmark of autism, as highlighted throughout Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing. By creating a sensory-friendly space, parents, educators, and carers can minimize discomfort, promote focus, and enhance overall wellbeing. In this post, we'll explore practical steps to build such spaces, drawing on insights from the book to help you adapt your home or classroom effectively.
Sensory processing differences mean that children with ASC may be hypersensitive (overwhelmed by stimuli like loud noises or bright lights) or hyposensitive (seeking intense input through activities like spinning). These can affect focus, behavior, and emotional regulation. A well-designed space acts as a sanctuary, reducing triggers and supporting self-regulation. For instance, recognizing patterns in a child's sensory reactions such as distress in noisy areas allows for proactive adjustments.
Extract from Chapter 3 (Understanding the Needs of Children with ASC), page 52:
"For non-verbal children or those with limited speech, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods, such as Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) or speech-generating devices, can provide effective tools for expression."
This extract underscores the importance of tailoring environments to individual sensory profiles, a key theme in Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing.
Assess Sensory Triggers: Observe your child's reactions in different settings. Keep a log of incidents to identify patterns, such as aversion to bright lights or certain textures. Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing recommends tools like the Intersectional Needs Checklist to map these out holistically.
Minimize Overload: Start simple, use neutral colours, soft lighting, and clutter-free zones. For hypersensitive children, incorporate noise-cancelling headphones or quiet corners. As noted in Chapter 6, page 84: "Creating a sensory-friendly space at home involves minimizing potential triggers and incorporating calming elements. This space might include soft lighting, cushions, weighted blankets, and sensory tools like fidget toys or stress balls."
Incorporate Positive Sensory Input: For hyposensitive children, add textured materials or weighted items. Activities like using a trampoline or playing with sensory toys can provide the input they crave without disruption.
Adapt for Home and School: At home, designate a "calm-down" area with cushions and dim lights. In school, suggest sensory breaks or flexible seating. Chapter 7, page 97, emphasizes: "Sensory sensitivities can significantly impact a child’s ability to focus and engage in the classroom. Supporting sensory needs requires understanding and proactive adjustments."
Track and Adjust: Use a daily log to monitor how changes impact behaviour. The Resources Appendix (page 198) offers a Sensory-Friendly Space Checklist: "Purpose: To assist parents, educators, and carers in creating environments that minimize sensory overload, promote comfort, and enhance focus for children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). This checklist addresses sensory sensitivities, a common trait in ASC, by providing actionable steps to adapt home, classroom, or community spaces."
In practice, a parent might transform a bedroom corner into a sensory haven with soft lamps and blankets, reducing meltdowns. Educators can integrate this into classrooms by providing sensory tools during lessons. Remember, collaboration is key, share observations with professionals for tailored advice, as discussed in Chapter 10 of Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing.
For more comprehensive strategies, including how sensory needs intersect with nutrition and behaviour, explore Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing at https://www.shellymealing.com/buy-the-books
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Routines provide predictability and security for children with ASC, helping to reduce anxiety and build independence. In Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing, routines are emphasized as a foundational tool for emotional regulation and smooth transitions. This post dives into how to establish calming routines, with steps, book extracts, and tips to make them sustainable for your family or classroom.
Children with ASC often thrive on structure, as changes can trigger distress. A calm routine acts as an anchor, fostering resilience and focus. Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing highlights how consistent routines can transform daily life, from mornings to bedtimes.
Extract from Chapter 6 (Creating Supportive Environments at Home and School), page 83:
"Children with ASC often find comfort in predictability. Routines provide a sense of stability and help them navigate the world with greater confidence."
This insight from Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing shows how routines not only stabilize but also empower growth.
Start Small: Begin with a 5-minute wind-down ritual, like deep breathing or reading. Consistency is key—repeat daily to build familiarity.
Use Visual Aids: Visual schedules help children anticipate what's next. Chapter 11, page 132: "Establishing consistent daily routines helps children expect what comes next and reduces anxiety. For example, a morning routine might include waking up, brushing teeth, and getting dressed in the same order every day. Visual schedules, using pictures or symbols, can reinforce this predictability by providing a clear roadmap of the day’s activities."
Incorporate Sensory Elements: Add calming tools like weighted blankets or soft music, tailored to your child's preferences.
Handle Disruptions: If a routine breaks, use communication logs to note impacts and adjust. From Chapter 10, page 124: "Consistent communication keeps families informed and involved in their child’s progress."
Evolve Over Time: As your child grows, involve them in routine planning to promote independence, as suggested in Chapter 12 of Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing.
The Resources Appendix (page 200) includes a Daily Visual Schedule Template: "Morning routine (wake-up, brushing teeth, getting dressed) • School or learning time • Meals • Sensory breaks • Playtime • Evening routine (bath, reading, bedtime)"
For a bedtime routine, combine a story with gentle stretching—parents report fewer meltdowns. In schools, educators can use similar structures for class transitions. Collaborate with therapists to refine routines, ensuring alignment across settings (Chapter 10 of Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing).
For detailed routine strategies and how they link to life skills, get Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing at https://www.shellymealing.com/buy-the-books
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Play is a powerful gateway to communication for children with ASC, turning interactions into joyful learning opportunities. Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing dedicates a full chapter to communication strategies, emphasizing play's role in building connections. Here, we expand on how to use play effectively, with extracts and actionable advice to enhance expression and social bonds.
Communication challenges in ASC can include delayed speech or difficulty with social cues, but play reduces pressure and fosters natural expression. Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing stresses tailored, fun approaches to bridge these gaps.
Extract from Chapter 3 (Understanding the Needs of Children with ASC), page 52:
"For non-verbal children or those with limited speech, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods, such as Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) or speech-generating devices, can provide effective tools for expression."
This highlights play's integration with AAC for meaningful exchanges in Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing.
Choose Simple Games: Start with picture cards or gestures to co-create stories, building vocabulary without overwhelm.
Encourage Non-Verbal Cues: Use body language like pointing—Chapter 5, page 74: "Role-playing common scenarios, such as asking to join a game or resolving a disagreement, provides a safe environment for practicing these skills."
Make It Interactive: Role-play scenarios to practice social communication, keeping sessions short and positive.
Incorporate Tech: Apps like Proloquo2Go can add fun elements, as noted in Resources, page 194: "Proloquo2Go (iOS) – A highly customizable speech-generating app with picture-based communication."
Celebrate Efforts: Praise every attempt to reinforce that communication is rewarding.
From Chapter 5, page 76: "Every step forward in communication, no matter how small, is worth celebrating."
At home, turn bath time into a gesture game; in therapy, use VR for simulated play (page 76). Parents and educators should collaborate for consistency (Chapter 10 of Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing).
For more on AAC and play integration, visit https://www.shellymealing.com/buy-the-books for the full guide in Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Condition by Shelly Mealing.
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