Their typical movements may be jerky or forceful, causing them to be misread as “angry” even though they are not mad. Watch for anxiety. Many disabled children are also anxious and afraid of criticism.
Be very careful if a caregiver describes a child as “manipulative” or “naughty. " This may mean that the caregiver is ignoring or behaving destructively towards the child.
Picture exchange systems Baby Sign (which can later turn into more advanced sign language) Typing
“You look stressed—your face is all scrunched up and you’re frowning. Is something wrong?” “Do you need a break?” “Can you point to the thing you want?” “I know it’s frustrating trying to communicate. I’m frustrated too. I still don’t understand, but I care about what you have to say. "
If the child can’t do it, or doesn’t have the energy, don’t push it. You can try again later. Praise their efforts, successful or not.
Recognize that they can pay attention to you while stimming—in fact, it may be the only way they can do so. Sometimes stimming will give you a clue regarding how they are feeling. Never say “quiet hands” to them, grab them against their will, or attempt to make them indistinguishable from their peers.
Self-talk Chewing gum Deep breaths Counting Talking through the problem (validating their feelings)
If a girl takes the child’s toy and he hits her, then both his and her behavior need to be addressed. Don’t make the child follow rules that other children can get away with bending or breaking. Don’t force the child to interact with other children. Having no friends may be preferable to having friends who bully them when your back is turned. Let them make their own choices about friendships.
“You have a disability called autism, which means you think differently. It’s why you stim a lot, and why loud noises hurt you so much. It’s also why you know so much about cats. " “You go to Special Ed because you are disabled. This means you think a little differently, and some things are harder for you. It’s okay to be disabled. "
