FAQautism

Some of our friends with autism display difficult behaviors. Hurtful, destructive, or extraordinarily disruptive behaviors are challenging to all involved. When considering options for addressing these tough issues, we need to look at both sides of the problem.

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For example, when a youngster with autism always strikes out and hits people who come near, we can gradually teach him to “be a friend” and to have “quiet hands,” keeping them on his knees. At the same time, we also need to teach family and friends these important principles: (1) respect his space, and (2) talk to him and interact with him, but avoid sitting or standing too close.

When a young lady with autism makes very loud and disruptive sounds, we can teach her to “make sounds like a little mouse.” But the real key to decreasing the sounds is to teach people around her to avoid looking at her every time she makes a loud sound.

If a teenager with autism raids the refrigerator on the sly and drinks all the soft drinks, we can usually teach him over time that the refrigerator is “off-limits.” At the same time, people in his home or school or job can help by removing the temptation – storing their soft drinks out of sight in an inaccessible place.

If a person with autism often ruins books by scribbling with a permanent marker, we can teach her that she may look at books, but she may not write in them. Learning those new rules may take months or years, so, meanwhile, adults need to be responsible for making permanent markers inaccessible to the scribble artist.

We welcome you to the conversation. Just click on the comments button or send an e-mail to 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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