June 2023 Special Needs Living Akron/Canton

SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER!

Strategies to avoid challenging behaviors by maintaining routine

BY DR. KRISTINE TURKO, BCBA, COBA

Now that the school year has ended and summer break is here, parents of children with disabilities may feel a sense of unease about the change in routine. Children with disabilities often thrive on structure and predictability, and the lack of a familiar routine can be unsettling. However, with a little planning and preparation, the summer months can be a time of relaxation and fun for the whole family. By establishing routines that provide a sense of stability and predictability, parents can help their children feel more secure and confident, while also preventing challenging behaviors that can arise when routines are disrupted.

Research has shown that routines play a vital role in the mental and emotional well-being of children with disabilities. According to Psychology Today, structured routines lead to healthier sleep cycles, which lead to better mental and emotional well-being. The Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology reports that family routines help moderate impulsiveness and oppositional symptoms and traits in children. This research is especially relevant to autistic individuals who find safety and security in the predictability of routines. People with autism thrive on repetition, making routines a successful part of their daily lives.

Without stability and feelings of well-being, challenging behaviors can emerge. Challenging behavior is anything that interferes with a person’s learning, engagement, and social interactions. It is important to remember that challenging behavior is often a child’s way of communicating that something is wrong. Common functions or reasons for challenging behavior include getting access to adult attention, getting access to an item or activity, and escaping a non-preferred activity. Establishing routines can help prevent challenging behavior and provide a sense of security and predictability for children with disabilities.

As we prepare for the summer months, establishing routines can help prevent challenging behavior and set the stage for a more relaxed and enjoyable summer for you and your child. Here are some tips to get started:

• Create a predictable environment: Make sure your child knows what to expect by establishing a consistent routine for meals, sleep, and other activities.

• Use visual supports: Use visual aids such as picture schedules or social stories to help your child understand and follow the routine.

• Prepare for transitions: Give your child ample notice before transitioning from one activity to another and provide a visual cue or countdown to help them prepare.

• Manage anxiety: Teach your child breathing exercises or other coping mechanisms to help manage anxiety and intervene early if you notice signs of distress.

• Set boundaries: Establish clear and consistent limits to help your child understand what is expected of them and provide alternatives when necessary.

• Remember, routines should be tailored to your child’s unique needs and preferences. Additionally, it is crucial to make time for selfcare and relaxation. Taking time for yourself can help you recharge and better support your child’s needs. Scheduling time for relaxation activities such as reading, listening to music, or taking a walk can also help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

• Be patient, keep track of what works and what doesn’t work, and adjust as needed. By establishing routines, you can help your child feel more secure, confident, and ready to take on the challenges of each day.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ the-gen-y-psy/201810/the-power-routines-in-yourmental-health

https://link.springer.com/article/ 10.1007/s10802-010-9447-5