Barefoot or Boots?
One parent asks for ideas for encouraging her son to keep shoes on his feet, especially when outside in the winter. Another asks for thoughts about dealing with his son’s obsession with wearing boots morning, noon, and night, even to bed. The contrasting questions illustrate the disparities of autism.
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Families are the ultimate experts about autism. But, interestingly, their insights and wisdom and “tricks of the trade” may not be of help to another family living just next door. The vast range of strengths and deficits in the areas of communication, social interaction, sensory sensitivities, obsessions, and ritualistic behavior requires individualized strategies and unique approaches for issues that arise in the life of each person with autism.
So, as we mentioned in the introduction, one youngster may prefer walking barefoot because he has extreme tactile defensiveness that makes wearing shoes very uncomfortable, while his classmate has an extreme craving for deep pressure and footwear that binds his feet tightly, even when he sleeps.
We will share some strategies that have worked for families facing the “Barefoot or Boots?” issues in future podcasts, but the focus of today’s discussion is the interesting dissimilarity in the impact autism has on different individuals. Some people simply do not connect with other people, while others stand too close and talk without ceasing. Some individuals with autism love water, while others avoid bathing, shaving, and washing hands because of an extreme tactile sensitivity to water. Some of our friends with autism compulsively eat any food in the house, while others will only eat macaroni and cheese for breakfast, lunch, and supper. The comparisons go on indefinitely.
We welcome your input about diverse behaviors. Just click on the comments button or send us an e-mail talk@FAQautism.com
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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