When we first started to suspect that Katelyn had autism, we didn't really think that she had sensory issues. However, all of a sudden it has become very apparent that she definitely has a lot of sensory needs. She becomes overstimulated and will get herself all worked up and then crash hard. She will go from being hyper, laughing and talking a mile a minute, and then all of a sudden she will start crying out of nowhere.
It is very common for kids (and adults) with autism to have difficulty regulating their sensory needs and emotions. A lot of these sensory issues can come about due to environmental factors, such as loud noise or bright lights, but the cause is not always obvious. We are still trying to figure out the triggers for some of Katelyn's behaviors and sensory needs.
There are many ways in which to help a person with autism regulate themselves. For instance, sometimes deep pressure helps, which is the case for Katelyn. She likes hard squeezes and squishes, and to be thrown into the couch or covered in pillows and blankets. For this reason, we have implemented a weighted vest, which helps her to remain calm and focused. We have also ordered a weighted blanket, which is supposed to help with this as well. Katelyn also craves activities such as swinging, jumping on the mini trampoline, bouncing on a large exercise ball, and playing with Play-Doh and beans.
Last Thursday, I began implementing a brushing program to help with Katelyn's sensory regulation. It involves brushing her arms, back, and legs every 2 hours with a special brush, and then following this with joint compressions. So far, it seems to be working wonders! Last week, she was having frequent meltdowns and was unable to focus on her therapy, but this week, she has been doing great! She is sitting at the table and attending once again and is remaining much calmer throughout the day. I also believe that it could have to do with the fact that she is now getting used to her much more demanding schedule.
With autism comes many challenges, only one of which is sensory needs, but by educating ourselves and being willing to try new and different methods, we will find what works for Katelyn.
It is very common for kids (and adults) with autism to have difficulty regulating their sensory needs and emotions. A lot of these sensory issues can come about due to environmental factors, such as loud noise or bright lights, but the cause is not always obvious. We are still trying to figure out the triggers for some of Katelyn's behaviors and sensory needs.
There are many ways in which to help a person with autism regulate themselves. For instance, sometimes deep pressure helps, which is the case for Katelyn. She likes hard squeezes and squishes, and to be thrown into the couch or covered in pillows and blankets. For this reason, we have implemented a weighted vest, which helps her to remain calm and focused. We have also ordered a weighted blanket, which is supposed to help with this as well. Katelyn also craves activities such as swinging, jumping on the mini trampoline, bouncing on a large exercise ball, and playing with Play-Doh and beans.
Last Thursday, I began implementing a brushing program to help with Katelyn's sensory regulation. It involves brushing her arms, back, and legs every 2 hours with a special brush, and then following this with joint compressions. So far, it seems to be working wonders! Last week, she was having frequent meltdowns and was unable to focus on her therapy, but this week, she has been doing great! She is sitting at the table and attending once again and is remaining much calmer throughout the day. I also believe that it could have to do with the fact that she is now getting used to her much more demanding schedule.
With autism comes many challenges, only one of which is sensory needs, but by educating ourselves and being willing to try new and different methods, we will find what works for Katelyn.
