Tearing Books
Some of my friends with autism enjoy looking at books and magazines, but tend to tear the pages because of poor motor skills or because of poor impulse control. Some people tear pages because they like the sound of paper ripping and others tear pages because they like the loud, agitated response the action elicits from teachers or parents. What are our options when people tear pages from books and magazines?
or
continue reading
The most obvious answer is the least desirable. We can just keep all books and magazines out of reach. But making reading materials inaccessible certainly impedes quality of life and limits horizons. Another option is to allow reading only when another person is holding the book. Careful monitoring does help protect the book, but it doesn’t allow a potential shredder to look at books during free time. Let’s consider some strategies for protecting books from chronic shredders.
LAMINATE. Carefully take stapled books and magazines apart, then laminate the pages before reassembling the book. I like to use clear Contact paper because it has a pleasant texture and a non-shiny surface. It is also a bit more flexible than standard lamination.
CREATE NOTEBOOKS. Many years ago, when I did not have access to a laminating machine and before I discovered clear Contact paper, I started a tradition that many of my friends with autism really like. I carefully disassemble books and magazines, slip the pages in plastic page protectors, and put the pages in a thin three ring notebook. Again, I use the inexpensive page protectors that are very thin and flexible with a non-glossy surface. Some of friends who are real bookworms still have “notebooks” created by this method several decades ago!
TIP FOR THE DAY. No matter the reason behind tearing or shredding, continue to encourage folks to read books and magazines by trying some strategies for protecting the paper and making reading materials readily accessible.
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified
music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At
providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for
people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at
thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t
forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse
into the world of autism.
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