How can we help our friends with autism deal with change? Resistance to change, common across the broad spectrum of autism, can really stand in the way of contentment and daily functioning. In some cases, we can plan ahead and help people ease into new situations.

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Some people with autism are rather flexible, so their resistance and inflexibility only arises when facing major life changes such as moving to a new house, moving to a new school, or having a new baby arrive at home. But other individuals are very resistant to any change in schedule, menu, temperature, clothing, or people in their lives.

Some of my friends with autism will only eat two or three foods, and others will only wear one or two shirts. Some are intolerant of substitute teachers, substitute bus drivers, a new pillow or blanket, rain, milk served in a different cup, season changes, or change in shampoo or soap. Their frustration in the face of change can be demonstrated by anything ranging from withdrawal or refusal to eat to screaming, throwing objects, or hitting.

The strategies for decreasing frustration, agitation, and explosive reactions to change vary from person to person. In some cases, change is unavoidable, so we need to help people adapt to the new situation. In other cases, there is no harm done in allowing a person to cling to old favorites. Whether moving toward inevitable change or allowing favorites to maintain, one idea that helps is this: PLAN AHEAD – systematically and purposefully.

So, for example, purchase two or three at a time of the same favorite pillows or blankets or towels or jackets or pairs of shoes. Trade out the matching objects every week or even every day so the favorite objects “age” at the same rate. The same multiple-purchase strategy works with favorite shampoo or soap that has a “just-right” scent or texture.

Planning ahead also helps when facing a major change such as a new car, new house, new baby, new school, or new job coach. Without too much fanfare, and WELL in advance of the change, casually start sharing photos and tidbits about the new person or place or object. Your friend with autism may still struggle with the change, but advance notice can reduce the trauma for some folks.

TIP FOR THE DAY: Planning ahead is just one step in a comprehensive strategy for helping individuals with autism tolerate change in their lives.

Stay tuned to FAQautism.com for more ideas in dealing with intolerance for change. And tell all your friends, colleagues, and others interested in the well-being of individuals with autism to click on http://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 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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