Noisy Places
We tend to think of individuals with autism as being averse to loud sounds and noisy places. But some of my friends with autism actually seem to enjoy rowdy, noisy environments. Others have learned to tolerate more noise over time.
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A friend and I were surprised when her elementary-aged daughter seemed to enjoy a visit to the Rainforest Café – a crowded place filled to the brim with the sights and sounds of the jungle. The little girl was delighted rather than frightened by the unexpected loud sounds and sudden movement happening all around her in this action-themed restaurant. The youngster’s mom commented that all her research and reading about autism lead her to believe that she should avoid environments like the Rainforest Café. In retrospect, she is really glad that, by taking a chance, she actually discovered an activity her daughter enjoys.
The little girl’s unexpected reaction to a noisy, highly-stimulating environment reminded the two of us that we must avoid assumptions about autism. Some people do have genuine aversions to loud sounds and unexpected noises. As much as possible, we can help sound-sensitive friends avoid noisy places like street festivals and bustling theme-restaurants. But other individuals with autism actually enjoy rowdy environments and noisy activities. And yet others tend to shy away from loud places when they first visit, but gradually develop tolerance for the sights and sounds.
One of my friends wanted to attend high school football games with her fellow students, but just could not tolerate the noise. To help her enjoy the experience, she and I sat in the stadium parking lot listening to the game on the radio so she could enjoy the lights and sight sand sounds in the safety of a familiar car. As the season progressed, she was able to move to the stands during halftime to watch the marching bands. By the end of the season, she was accustomed to the noisy football stadium and able to sit with her friends for the whole game. Forcing a person with extreme sound sensitivities into noisy places is counterproductive, but, in some cases, we can help our friends with autism expand their horizons by gradually developing a tolerance for loud activities and environments.
TIP FOR THE DAY: We can help our friends with extraordinary sound sensitivities steer clear of noisy places. At the same time, we can scout out rowdy environments for individuals with autism who actually thrive in bustling, noisy activities.
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 a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your 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. http://FAQautism.com
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